If you’ve never tried a Chicken Torta Sandwich, you’re in for a bold, flavor packed ride. This classic Mexican street style sandwich is a juicy, spicy, crunchy explosion of all things delicious layered inside soft telera rolls or bolillo bread. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or whenever your cravings strike.
Whether you’re a sandwich lover or just someone who wants to spice up their mealtime, this authentic Chicken Torta recipe is the ultimate comfort food you didn’t know you needed.
Chicken Torta Sandwich
What Makes a Chicken Torta Sandwich So Irresistible?
A traditional Mexican torta isn’t your average sandwich. Here’s what makes it extra special:
- Bold layers: Grilled chicken, refried beans, avocado, crema, and spicy jalapeños come together in every bite.
- Perfect texture: Crispy outside, juicy inside, with a soft bun to hold it all together.
- Completely customizable: You can make it spicy, creamy, cheesy however you like!
Pro Tip: Use telera rolls or bolillo for that true torta vibe they’re slightly crusty outside but pillowy soft inside.
Ingredients for the Best Chicken Torta
Here’s what you’ll need to create your masterpiece:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 2 telera or bolillo rolls
- ½ cup refried beans
- 1 ripe avocado (sliced)
- ¼ cup pickled jalapeños
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise or Mexican crema
- Shredded lettuce & tomato slices
- Optional: cheese, hot sauce, pickled onions
How to Make a Chicken Torta Sandwich (Step-by-Step)
- Marinate and Cook the Chicken
- Mix chili powder, cumin, garlic, lime juice, salt & pepper in a bowl.
- Add chicken, marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
- Grill or pan-fry the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked.
2. Toast the Rolls
- Slice the telera rolls in half and toast them lightly in a pan or toaster.
3. Assemble the Sandwich
- Spread refried beans on the bottom bun.
- Add sliced chicken, avocado, jalapeños, lettuce, and tomatoes.
- Spread crema or mayo on the top bun.
- Press gently, slice in half, and serve!
Variations & Add-Ons to Try
- Swap chicken with carnitas, steak, or fried egg.
- Add chipotle aioli or guacamole for a creamy punch.
- Try it with queso fresco or melty Oaxaca cheese.
Make it vegetarian by using grilled mushrooms or crispy tofu!
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook and store chicken separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Store sandwich components in airtight containers and assemble fresh.
- Avoid assembling ahead of time to prevent soggy bread.
| Calories | 510 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 46 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 6 g |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Total Fat | 24 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Cholesterol | 95 mg |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
| Potassium | 610 mg |
| Calcium | 180 mg |
| Iron | 4 mg |
Recipe FAQ,s
What is the difference between a torta and a sandwich?
A torta is a type of Mexican sandwich typically served on telera or bolillo bread and filled with bold ingredients like refried beans, avocado, spicy meats, and crema giving it a unique flavor compared to classic American sandwiches.
Can I make a chicken torta without beans?
Absolutely! While refried beans add texture and richness, you can skip them or replace with guacamole or mashed avocado.
What bread should I use for a chicken torta?
Traditional telera or bolillo rolls are best. They’re slightly crusty but soft inside, perfect for holding up all the fillings.
Chicken Torta Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 garlic clove minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 2 telera or bolillo rolls
- ½ cup refried beans
- 1 ripe avocado sliced
- ¼ cup pickled jalapeños
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise or Mexican crema
- Shredded lettuce & tomato slices
- Optional: cheese hot sauce, pickled onions
Instructions
- Marinate and Cook the Chicken
- Mix chili powder, cumin, garlic, lime juice, salt & pepper in a bowl.
- Add chicken, marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
- Grill or pan-fry the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Toast the Rolls
- Slice the telera rolls in half and toast them lightly in a pan or toaster.
- Assemble the Sandwich
- Spread refried beans on the bottom bun.
- Add sliced chicken, avocado, jalapeños, lettuce, and tomatoes.
- Spread crema or mayo on the top bun.
- Press gently, slice in half, and serve!
Video
Notes
- Add sliced cheese (like Oaxaca or mozzarella) for a melty version.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a shortcut version.
- Swap beans with mashed black beans or spicy chipotle mayo.
