Curious about how much is the Chicken Big Mac? McDonald’s Chicken Big Mac typically costs between $5.00 to $7.00 depending on your location. But why spend that much when you can make a delicious homemade version that tastes even better? This recipe will show you how to create your own Chicken Big Mac using freshly grilled chicken breasts instead of beef patties, giving you complete control over ingredients while saving money. Let’s dive into creating this iconic sandwich with a healthier twist that your family will love!
How Much is the Chicken Big Mac: Make Your Own at Home
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 2 sandwiches
- Difficulty: Medium
Ingredients
For the Grilled Chicken Patties:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Special Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
For Assembly:
- 3 sesame seed hamburger buns (you’ll use the middle bun piece from one to create the iconic middle layer)
- 2 slices American cheese
- ¼ cup shredded lettuce
- 2 tablespoons diced white onion
- 4-6 dill pickle slices
EQUIPMENT_NEEDED
- Grill pan or outdoor grill
- Meat tenderizer or rolling pin
- Small bowl for mixing sauce
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
Instructions
Step 1
Begin by butterflying each chicken breast to create an even thickness for optimal cooking. Place one breast on your cutting board and, using a sharp knife, slice horizontally through the middle of the breast, stopping about ½ inch from the opposite edge so the breast opens like a book.
Next, place the butterflied chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even ¼-inch thickness throughout. This ensures the chicken will cook evenly and quickly.
Once flattened, remove the plastic wrap and season both sides generously with:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Press the seasonings into the meat gently with your hands to help them adhere. Let the seasoned chicken rest for 5-10 minutes while you prepare your breading station.
Step 2
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures even cooking and creates those appealing grill marks that mimic the restaurant-style preparation.
Brush the cooking surface with olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side.
Key tip: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness – the internal temperature should reach 165°F for food safety. Avoid pressing down on the chicken while cooking, as this releases juices and can result in dry meat.
Once cooked through, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or using in your homemade Chicken Big Mac. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite stays tender and flavorful.
Step 3
Meanwhile, prepare the special sauce by combining mayonnaise, pickle relish, yellow mustard, white vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Pro tip: For the most authentic flavor, use the following proportions:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
This sauce is what gives the Chicken Big Mac its distinctive taste, so take your time to blend the ingredients thoroughly. The sauce can be made up to a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, which actually helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 4
Toast the bun pieces until they reach a light golden color. You’ll need to prepare all three layers: the top bun, bottom bun, and one middle section cut from an extra bun. Place them cut-side down in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or use a toaster set to a light setting. The goal is to achieve a warm, slightly crispy texture without over-browning. This toasting step is crucial as it prevents the buns from becoming soggy when you add the sauces and helps create the authentic Big Mac experience with that signature crunch.
Step 5
Now comes the crucial assembly process that transforms your prepared ingredients into a restaurant-quality Chicken Big Mac. Start by placing the bottom bun on your serving plate, then spread a generous layer of special sauce across the surface. Add a handful of crisp lettuce, followed by your first grilled chicken patty.
Place a cheese slice on top of the chicken, allowing it to slightly melt from the residual heat. Next, add the middle bun piece – this signature element gives the Big Mac its distinctive triple-layer structure. Spread another layer of special sauce on the middle bun, then add more lettuce for that satisfying crunch.
Sprinkle diced onions evenly across the lettuce, followed by pickle slices for that tangy bite. Top with your second chicken patty, and finish by crowning your creation with the top bun. Press down gently to help all the layers settle together while maintaining the burger’s impressive height.
How to Grill Chicken Breasts Perfectly
The key to a delicious Chicken Big Mac is perfectly grilled chicken breasts. Here’s how to achieve juicy, flavorful chicken patties:
Preparing the Chicken
Start by butterflying each chicken breast, then placing them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat tenderizer or rolling pin, pound them to about ¼-inch thickness. This ensures quick, even cooking and creates a patty-like shape perfect for sandwiches.
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let them rest for at least 5 minutes to absorb the flavors before grilling.
The Grilling Process
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F). Brush the surface with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the hot grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You’ll know they’re ready when they have nice grill marks and the juices run clear.
For juicier chicken, avoid constantly flipping or pressing down on the breasts while cooking. Let them rest for 5 minutes after grilling before slicing or assembling your sandwich.
Making the Special Sauce
While the cost of a Chicken Big Mac at McDonald’s ranges from $5.00-$7.00, making the special sauce at home costs just pennies. Combine all sauce ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. This sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to a week.
