You know that specific type of hunger? The one that demands a culinary marvel but gives you five minutes of prep time? That’s how the legend of theEasy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwichbegan.
This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a tower of flavor—juicy chicken, smoky beef turkey bacon, layers of cheese, all glued together with glorious ranch dressing. Get ready to meet your new favorite, ridiculously easy meal.
- Quick assembly process means you can have this decadent meal ready and on the table in under thirty minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- The flavor profile combines savory grilled chicken, salty beef turkey bacon, and the cool, creamy tang of homemade or store-bought ranch dressing.
- Visually appealing with perfectly toasted bread and luscious melted cheese pulls, guaranteed to impress even the toughest critics.
- Highly versatile, allowing you to swap out cheeses or add extra veggies like caramelized onions or roasted bell peppers easily.
The Secret History of the Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich
Every legendary comfort food has a chaotic origin story, and this one is no exception. I invented this masterpiece on a Tuesday evening when my grocery delivery failed, leaving me with a surprisingly impressive amount of shredded chicken, a handful of leftover beef turkey bacon strips, and a desperate craving for something epic. I looked at the ingredients scattered across the counter and realized fate was telling me to stop trying to make a sophisticated meal and just build the most audacious sandwich possible.
The result? A sandwich so satisfying and flavorful it felt almost illegal to call it “easy.” People often overcomplicate dinner, believing that complex flavors require complex techniques. Not true! The beauty of the Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich lies in its straightforward construction. You are simply taking ingredients that were clearly soulmates—chicken, cheese, and ranch—and uniting them in a toasted bread embrace. The beef turkey bacon adds that essential layer of smoky crunch that elevates it from a simple melt to a culinary event. It’s perfect for game days, quick lunches, or those nights when cooking feels like an Olympic sport you are not prepared to win.
We start by ensuring the primary protein, the chicken, is already cooked and shredded. This is the ultimate time-saver. If you meal prep or have rotisserie chicken leftovers, you are already halfway to glory. If not, quickly pan-fry or bake some chicken breasts while you prepare the other elements. The next key element is the cheese—and you need plenty of it. We are not aiming for structural integrity here; we are aiming for maximum ooze. I usually combine a sharp cheddar for flavor depth and some Monterey Jack for optimal melting consistency. Don’t hold back on the ranch; it is the creamy glue holding this entire operation together. Trust me, once you experience the harmony of textures and flavors in this simple, loaded sandwich, you will never look at Tuesday night dinner the same way again.
Ingredients for Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- BreadChoose sturdy slices like sourdough, Texas toast, or thick-cut white bread that can handle substantial fillings without falling apart.
- Cooked Chicken BreastUse shredded or diced pre-cooked chicken; rotisserie chicken works beautifully for speed and flavor.
- Beef Turkey Bacon StripsEnsure the beef turkey bacon is cooked until crispy before assembling the sandwich, providing a critical textural contrast.
- Cheddar CheeseUse freshly shredded sharp or medium cheddar for superior melt and robust flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- Monterey Jack CheeseThis cheese melts easily and beautifully, adding a desirable creaminess and stretch to the sandwich filling.
- Ranch DressingUse your favorite creamy ranch dressing; feel free to make it homemade if you have time, but store-bought is perfectly acceptable.
- Butter or MayonnaiseYou will spread this on the outside of the bread to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust when grilling.
- Garlic Powder and Onion PowderA light sprinkle mixed with the chicken helps boost the savory flavor profile significantly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prep the Fillings and Season the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded pre-cooked chicken. Stir in about half a cup of ranch dressing, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated and moist. Add a pinch of garlic powder and onion powder to enhance the savory notes. Cook the beef turkey bacon strips until they are nice and crisp, then chop them into small, manageable pieces. Set the prepared chicken mixture and beef turkey bacon aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread and Cheese Blend
Gather four slices of your chosen bread. On the inside of two slices (which will be the bottoms), layer half of the cheddar and half of the Monterey Jack cheese. This provides the foundational melt. Spread a thin, even layer of softened butter or mayonnaise on the exterior side of all four slices of bread; this is the secret to getting a deep, golden-brown toast without burning.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich Layers
On top of the cheese layer on the bottom slices, generously spoon the ranch-coated chicken mixture. Distribute the chopped, crispy beef turkey bacon evenly over the chicken. Top the turkey bacon layer with the remaining cheese blend (cheddar and Monterey Jack). Place the second slice of bread, butter-side up, on top of the filling to complete the sandwich.
Step 4: Grill the Sandwich to Golden Perfection
Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches carefully onto the hot surface. Grill for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing down lightly with a spatula to ensure good contact. Watch for the buttered exterior to turn deep golden brown and the cheese inside to become completely melted and gooey. If the bread browns too quickly, lower the heat slightly.
Step 5: Slice and Serve Immediately
Once perfectly melted and toasted, transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board. Use a sharp, serrated knife to slice the sandwiches diagonally. Transfer to plates and drizzle with a little extra ranch dressing for the perfect finishing touch and presentation. Serve immediately alongside a simple side salad or some crispy potato chips.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Sandwich Build
Achieving the legendary melt of the Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich requires a few strategic maneuvers. First, temperature control is paramount. If your heat is too high, the bread will burn long before the core cheeses melt. Keep the heat strictly medium-low and be patient. If your fillings are coming straight from the refrigerator, the melt time will increase, so pull the chicken and cheese out 10 minutes before assembling.
Another excellent tip involves the cheese placement. By layering cheese both on the bottom and the top of the filling, you create a cheese ‘cage’ that helps prevent the creamy ranch chicken filling from oozing out during the grilling process. Always use freshly shredded cheese; pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that hinder a truly luxurious melt. For an extra punch of flavor, try stirring a spoonful of dried dill or finely chopped chives directly into your ranch dressing before coating the chicken.
Finally, the mayonnaise vs. butter debate: while butter delivers a classic grilled cheese flavor, mayonnaise applied thinly to the outside of the bread yields an unbeatable, even, and crispy golden crust that doesn’t burn as easily. Try both methods to see which crispy coating you prefer for your perfect cheesy chicken beef turkey bacon ranch sandwich experience.
Why This Sandwich is Your New Weeknight Hero
In the hierarchy of quick dinners, the loaded cheesy chicken sandwich sits confidently at the top. This recipe excels because it addresses the modern dilemma of wanting something deeply satisfying without dedicating an hour to culinary effort. It leverages pre-cooked components—shredded chicken and pre-cooked beef turkey bacon—making it lightning fast. From start to finish, you are looking at under 25 minutes, making it significantly faster than ordering takeout and infinitely better tasting.
Moreover, this meal is exceptionally forgiving. Did you overcook the chicken slightly yesterday? No problem, drowning it in ranch dressing fixes almost any dryness issue. Are you running low on cheddar? Swap it for mozzarella or provolone. The sturdy base flavors of ranch, smoky beef turkey bacon, and savory chicken mean the framework is solid, allowing for flexibility with the secondary ingredients. It’s a budget-friendly way to use up leftovers while making everyone feel like they got a massive treat. It delivers maximum flavor impact with minimum hassle, solidifying its status as a true weeknight champion that parents, busy professionals, and college students will adore.
Flavor Variations: Taking Your Sandwich Game Up a Notch
While the classic configuration of the Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich is flawless, there is always room to customize and elevate. If you like a little heat, consider mixing a small dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the ranch dressing before coating the chicken. If you enjoy vegetables, caramelized onions or a layer of sun-dried tomatoes offer a fantastic textural and tangy contrast to the rich cheese and meat.
For those who love a smoky-sweet profile, brush the outside of the bread lightly with a bit of maple syrup mixed with melted butter before grilling. This adds a subtle, restaurant-quality crispness and complexity. Cheese variations are also endless; try pepper jack for spice or Swiss for nuttiness. Another fantastic twist is to add thinly sliced avocado inside the sandwich right before grilling. While it doesn’t melt, the cool, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm, salty beef turkey bacon and cheese.
Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich FAQs
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can mix the chicken, ranch, and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance and store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. This cuts down on assembly time, making the grilling step even quicker.
What is the best type of bread for this loaded sandwich?
A thick-cut bread is essential, such as sourdough or Texas toast, because it is strong enough to hold the heavy, juicy filling without getting soggy or falling apart during the cooking process.
How do I ensure the cheese melts completely without burning the bread?
Maintain a low to medium-low heat on the skillet. If necessary, you can cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute of cooking to trap heat, ensuring the cheese melts all the way through while the bread finishes browning slowly.
I don’t have beef turkey bacon; what is a good substitute?
Turkey turkey bacon is an excellent alternative that still provides a smoky flavor and crisp texture without using chicken products. Ensure it is cooked crispy before chopping and adding it to the filling.
Life is too short for boring sandwiches. I learned this lesson the hard way, during a particularly grueling week where my lunch rotation consisted solely of dry turkey slices on whole wheat bread—the culinary equivalent of watching paint dry. I needed excitement. I needed flavor. I needed a sandwich so epic it could single-handedly turn a dreary Tuesday into a Saturday morning.
That moment of profound sandwich despair led to the creation of what I now affectionately call the ‘Midnight Snack MVP’—the ultimate comfort food delivery system. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an experience. It’s the perfect melding of tender chicken, smoky beef turkey bacon, and the creamy, herby kiss of ranch dressing, all wrapped up in a warm, toasted embrace. Get ready to meet your new obsession: theEasy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich.
The Anatomy of Awesomeness
Creating perfection requires balance. We need protein, serious crunch, and a sauce delivery system that avoids sogginess. The secret here lies in layering the flavors correctly and ensuring that everything hits the pan hot and ready. Forget everything you know about bland lunchtime fare. We are building a masterpiece of meltiness.
Ingredients for Your Culinary Masterpiece
This recipe serves two magnificent sandwiches, but feel free to double the quantities if you anticipate fighting over the last bite.
- 4 slices sturdy bread (sourdough or Texas toast work best)
- 8 slices provolone cheese (or mozzarella for extra stretch)
- 2 small chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (about 1 cup)
- 4 strips beef turkey bacon, cooked until crisp
- ½ cup prepared ranch dressing
- ¼ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil for grilling
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Preparation: The Road to Flavor Town
Before you even think about toasting bread, you need foundation components ready. If you don’t have leftover chicken, roast, grill, or pan-fry your chicken breasts, seasoning them simply with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Once cooled slightly, shred it effortlessly using two forks or a hand mixer—it’s a surprisingly satisfying technique!
Next, crisp up that beef turkey bacon. I prefer baking it on a wire rack until shatteringly crunchy, but a quick pan fry works wonderfully too. Once done, place the turkey bacon on paper towels to drain excess fat. Now we assemble the flavor bomb mixture.
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, the shredded cheddar cheese, and the ranch dressing. Stir everything gently until the chicken is completely coated. This mixture should be creamy but still hold its shape. Set this aside and prepare the bread for its transformation into a golden vessel.
Grilling the Ultimate Sandwich
The key to a truly magnificent grilled sandwich is ensuring both even cooking and a beautiful, golden-brown crust. We want that satisfying crunch with every bite, contrasting perfectly with the gooey interior.
Start by buttering one side of each slice of bread, ensuring edge-to-edge coverage. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in a non-stick pan or skillet set over medium heat. Immediately top the unbuttered side of these two slices with two slices of provolone cheese each. This ensures the bottom layer of cheese begins melting instantly.
Next, generously pile the creamy chicken and ranch mixture onto the melting cheese layer. Spread it evenly but don’t overstuff the sandwich, or you risk losing filling during the flip. Lay the strips of crispy beef turkey bacon on top of the chicken mixture. Finally, top the beef turkey bacon with the remaining two slices of provolone cheese.
Place the remaining two slices of bread on top, butter-side up. Cook the sandwich for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. You are looking for a deep, rich, golden-brown crust and cheese that is bubbling merrily. If the outside browns too quickly before the inside is molten, reduce the heat slightly.
Once cooked, remove the sandwiches from the pan. Allow them to rest for about a minute—this prevents all the molten cheese from immediately escaping when you slice it. Slice diagonally and prepare yourself for the happiest sound in the kitchen: the cheesy pull. You have just mastered theEasy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Achieving structural integrity is paramount for this sandwich. First, prepare the chicken and crispy beef turkey bacon entirely. Next, mix the ranch filling, then focus on assembly and grilling. This sequence ensures the filling is cold when hitting the pan, allowing the cheese layers ample time to melt and seal the sandwich before the exterior toasts perfectly.
Add Your Touch
For an extra kick, mix a dash of hot sauce into the ranch dressing or substitute smoked gouda for provolone. Alternatively, incorporate finely diced red onion or mild pickled jalapeños into the chicken mixture for crunch and tanginess. You can also swap the bread for brioche or ciabatta for a softer texture.
Storing & Reheating
If you have leftovers (a rare occurrence), store assembled but uncooked sandwiches tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To reheat cooked sandwiches, wrap them loosely in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or use an air fryer for a quick, crispy crust that minimizes sogginess.
My cousin once tried to make four of these simultaneously on one small skillet and ended up fusing them all into a giant, delicious ‘sandwich-blob.’ We ate it with forks, but the mess taught us to respect the sandwich space.
Expert Tips for Sandwich Perfection
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Use high-quality bread like sourdough; its robust structure and tangy flavor hold up beautifully against the rich, creamy filling without turning soggy prematurely.
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Ensure the skillet is perfectly preheated but not raging hot; cooking at medium heat guarantees that the cheese melts through completely before the crust burns.
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Shred your chicken finely, as this technique maximizes the surface area, allowing the ranch dressing and cheddar cheese to bind the filling together tightly, preventing spillage.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
This sandwich is surprisingly adaptable and simple, but a few questions often pop up when people attempt this level of cheesy excellence.
What kind of chicken is best for this sandwich?
Any pre-cooked chicken works perfectly! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver, offering great flavor and moisture. If cooking fresh, bake or poach the chicken breasts simply, avoiding heavily spiced marinades that might clash with the ranch flavor profile.
Can I prepare the chicken filling ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can mix the chicken, ranch, and cheddar combination up to 48 hours in advance. Storing the filling separately actually helps the flavors meld wonderfully. Keep the filling refrigerated and assemble the sandwich just before grilling.
What sides pair well with this rich sandwich?
Because theEasy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwichis so decadent, pair it with lighter, acidic sides. Think a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, a simple tomato soup, or even some cool, crunchy dill pickles to cut through the richness.
I don’t have beef turkey bacon. What is a good substitute?
If beef turkey bacon isn’t available, crispy turkey turkey bacon is an excellent alternative, offering a similar smoky, salty crunch. For a vegetarian take, roasted portobello mushroom slices seasoned with smoke flavor work surprisingly well to replicate the richness.
The Final Verdict
This sandwich is not just a meal; it is a declaration of independence from mundane lunches. The layers of gooey provolone, the creamy, herbaceous ranch, and the satisfying crunch of the toasted bread create a harmony of textures and tastes that is impossible to resist. Whether you are battling the midweek blues or hosting a casual weekend gathering, mastering this recipe ensures you always have a winning dish up your sleeve. Go forth and conquer the kitchen, crafting the most satisfying, cheesy, and unforgettable sandwich your taste buds have ever encountered. You deserve this level of flavor joy.
The Legend of the Ultimate Lunch Dilemma
We’ve all been there: standing in front of the refrigerator, staring into the abyss, convinced there is nothing to eat despite shelves laden with potential. That moment of despair often leads to culinary genius, which is exactly how the Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich was born. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a fully loaded, flavor-packed fortress designed to defeat hunger and elevate your lunch game from zero to hero.
Forget the sad, soggy deli slices of your past. We are talking about layers of tender chicken, savory roast beef, crispy beef turkey bacon, and a luxurious blanket of melted cheese, all drizzled with creamy Ranch dressing and grilled to golden perfection. It is comfort food engineered for maximum deliciousness, and surprisingly, it is incredibly simple to execute, even on the busiest Tuesday afternoon.
Why This Flavor Combination Works So Well
The magic of this sandwich lies in its harmonious clash of textures and tastes. Chicken provides a solid, lean foundation, while the roast beef adds a deep, umami richness. The critical component is the beef turkey bacon, which introduces that necessary salty, smoky crunch. Ranch dressing acts as the glue, its tangy, herbaceous profile cutting through the richness of the melted cheese and the meats. We aren’t just stacking ingredients; we are crafting an experience where every bite delivers salty, creamy, savory, and satisfying goodness.
Gathering Your Culinary Troops (Ingredients)
To construct this masterpiece, you need hardy ingredients that stand up to grilling and serious stacking. Using quality, thick-cut bread is non-negotiable—it needs to handle the copious amounts of filling we are about to introduce. Think of your bread as the structural engineer of this culinary construction project. Don’t skimp on the cheese, either; a blend of Monterey Jack and sharp Cheddar offers the ideal melt and flavor profile.
Essential Shopping List for the Perfect Sandwich
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cooked and shredded or thinly sliced)
- 1/2 lb quality deli roast beef, thinly sliced
- 8 slices crispy beef turkey bacon or turkey turkey bacon
- 8 slices sturdy bread (sourdough or Texas toast preferred)
- 1 cup shredded cheese blend (Cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup Ranch dressing (plus extra for dipping)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to taste
Building the Masterpiece: How to Make the Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich
The assembly process is straightforward, but technique matters. We need to ensure even heat distribution and maximum cheese meltage. If you are starting with raw chicken, ensure you cook and season it thoroughly before beginning the sandwich construction. Shredding the chicken helps it integrate better with the ranch dressing and prevents it from sliding out during grilling.
Prep and Assembly Secrets
First, if you haven’t already, cook your chicken and slice your beef turkey bacon until wonderfully crisp. Next, preheat a flat griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Now for the assembly line! Take two slices of bread. Lightly spread the outside of both slices with softened butter. This is key for that beautiful golden crust.
Flip the bread slices over. On the inside of one slice, layer half of the shredded cheese. On the other slice, spread a generous dollop of Ranch dressing. Next, evenly distribute the shredded chicken over the ranch-coated slice. Lay the slices of roast beef on top of the chicken, followed by the crispy beef turkey bacon.
Finally, top the meat layers with the remaining cheese. Gently place the cheese-only slice of bread on top of the stacked ingredients, completing your sandwich structure. Press down lightly to ensure everything adheres.
The Golden Toasting Moment
Carefully transfer your constructed sandwich to the preheated griddle or skillet. Grill the sandwich for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until the bread is deeply golden brown and the cheese is completely molten and gooey. You may need to press down lightly with a spatula during grilling to help the cheese melt and bind the layers together.
Once perfectly toasted, remove the sandwich from the heat. Let it rest for a minute—this prevents all the filling from spilling out when you slice it. Cut the sandwich diagonally, admire the cross-section of glorious fillings, and serve immediately with extra Ranch dressing on the side for dipping. This fulfilling sandwich truly defines comfort food perfection.
Pro Tips and Flavor Twists
Customizing this recipe is half the fun. While the classic Ranch flavor is unbeatable, you can always introduce minor tweaks to suit your preferences. If you want an extra layer of heat, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce to the Ranch dressing before spreading it. For a richer, more decadent texture, mix a tablespoon of cream cheese into your shredded cheese blend.
Serving suggestion: Because this sandwich is so robust, it pairs best with lighter sides. A simple dill pickle spear and a handful of crunchy, lightly salted potato chips complete the diner experience. If you are aiming for something healthier, a small side salad with vinaigrette works beautifully to cut through the richness of the melted cheese and the savory meats.
Conclusion for Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich
The Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s an efficient solution to serious cravings. Combining the best elements of a deli sandwich and a grilled cheese, it offers a robust mix of chicken, savory beef, and smoky beef turkey bacon, all enveloped in gooey cheese and creamy Ranch. This recipe proves that maximum flavor doesn’t require maximum effort. Perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch or a delightful dinner, this sandwich delivers comfort, flavor, and a satisfying crunch in every single bite. Get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food fusion.
FAQs
Can I prepare the components of the Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, prepping components significantly speeds up assembly time. You can cook and shred the chicken up to two days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The beef turkey bacon can also be cooked until crispy and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. However, assemble and grill the Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich immediately before serving. Assembling it too early will result in soggy bread once the ranch dressing soaks in, diminishing the crucial crunchy texture we aim for.
What are the best bread choices for this robust sandwich?
Choosing the right bread is essential to support the weight of the chicken, beef, and cheese. Standard white bread tends to collapse. We highly recommend using sturdy options like Texas toast, sourdough bread, or even thick-cut brioche. These varieties hold their structure well under grilling and ensure that the final Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich remains cohesive, even when filled with generous layers of juicy ingredients and melted cheese.
How can I make my beef turkey bacon extra crispy for the ultimate texture?
To achieve maximum crispness in your beef turkey bacon, lay the strips flat in a cold skillet before turning the heat to medium. This slow heating process allows the fat to render out evenly, preventing burning while ensuring a uniform crunch. Drain the cooked beef turkey bacon on paper towels immediately after removing it from the skillet. The crunchy texture is vital because it contrasts beautifully with the soft, melted cheese inside the finished sandwich.
Are there any creative topping substitutions for the classic Ranch flavor?
While Ranch is the traditional star of this chicken and beef creation, you certainly have substitution options if you want a different flavor profile. Try using a creamy, tangy blue cheese dressing for a sharper taste. Alternatively, a smoky chipotle mayonnaise or a light honey mustard sauce provides a pleasant sweetness and heat, offering a fantastic twist on the traditional Easy and Cheesy Chicken Beef Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich concept.
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