Panes Con Pollo: The Most Delicious Salvadoran Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Name: Panes Con Pollo: The Most Delicious Salvadoran Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Salvadoran
Ingredients: 2 lbs bone-in chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts); 1 tbsp yellow mustard; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp salt; 2 tbsp olive oil; 5 Roma tomatoes, chopped; 1 small onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 Guajillo chili, soaked and chopped; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp oregano; 1 tsp achiote powder; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; 1 tbsp ground almonds; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tbsp olive oil; 6 French bread rolls (Bolillo, Hoagie, or Baguette); 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp yellow mustard; 2 cups shredded lettuce (Romaine or Iceberg); 1 cup sliced tomatoes; 1 cup sliced cucumbers; ½ cup pickled carrots; ½ cup pickled radishes; ½ cup sliced onions; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Panes con Pollo is one of El Salvador’s most beloved dishes, and for good reason! This Salvadoran chicken sandwich is packed with tender, juicy chicken, a rich tomato-based sauce, crisp vegetables, and crusty bread. Whether served at family gatherings, street food stalls, or special celebrations, it remains a favorite in Salvadoran cuisine.

This recipe will guide you through every step—from marinating the chicken to assembling the sandwich with fresh toppings and flavorful sauce. With detailed instructions, useful tips, and delicious variations, this article ensures that you’ll make the best Panes con Pollo at home.

What is Panes Con Pollo?

Panes con Pollo, meaning “chicken bread” in Spanish, is more than just a sandwich. This Latin American sandwich combines slow-cooked, seasoned chicken with a homemade tomato sauce, pickled vegetables, and toasted bread. It is often compared to other Salvadoran comfort foods due to its bold flavors and hearty ingredients.

This sandwich is a Salvadoran holiday dish often served during Christmas, New Year’s Eve, birthdays, and family reunions. While some prefer the Pan con Pavo (turkey version), the chicken variation remains the most popular.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredibly Flavorful – The juicy, well-seasoned chicken, combined with the rich tomato-based sauce, creates a mouthwatering combination that’s both comforting and exciting.Perfect for Any Occasion – This sandwich is great for holidays, family gatherings, or even a simple weeknight meal. It’s a dish that brings people together!A Taste of Authentic Salvadoran Cuisine – Experience traditional Salvadoran food at its finest, with homemade flavors that capture the essence of Salvadoran street food.Easy to Customize – Whether you like it spicy, extra saucy, or loaded with fresh vegetables, this sandwich can be tailored to your preference.Make-Ahead Friendly – The chicken and sauce can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or serving a crowd without last-minute stress.A Fun and Messy Eating Experience! – This isn’t just any sandwich—it’s a flavor explosion! The crispy bread, juicy filling, and vibrant toppings make it fun and satisfying to eat.

Ingredients for Panes Con Pollo

A great Salvadoran chicken sandwich starts with quality ingredients. Below are the essential components:

For the Chicken

2 lbs bone-in chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Salsa Roja (Tomato Sauce)

5 Roma tomatoes, chopped
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 Guajillo chili, soaked and chopped
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp achiote powder
1 tbsp sesame seeds
1 tbsp ground almonds
2 cups chicken broth
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sandwich

6 French bread rolls (Bolillo, Hoagie, or Baguette)
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp yellow mustard
2 cups shredded lettuce (Romaine or Iceberg)
1 cup sliced tomatoes
1 cup sliced cucumbers
½ cup pickled carrots
½ cup pickled radishes
½ cup sliced onions
Fresh cilantro for garnish

How to Make Panes Con Pollo (Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Marinate and Cook the Chicken

Bone-in chicken marinating with mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and spices, ready to be cooked for Panes con Pollo.

In a large bowl, mix mustard, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, black pepper, and salt.
Coat the bone-in chicken thoroughly and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Heat olive oil in a large pan and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown.
Remove from heat and set aside while preparing the sauce.

2. Prepare the Salsa Roja (Tomato Sauce)

A half-assembled Panes con Pollo sandwich, with juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and pickled toppings on crusty bread.

Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the onions, garlic, and tomatoes until softened.
Add Guajillo chili, cumin, oregano, achiote, sesame seeds, and ground almonds.
Pour in chicken broth and let simmer for 15 minutes.
Blend the sauce until smooth and return it to the pan.
Add the browned chicken, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes until tender.

This sauce is similar to what’s used in a Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, balancing warmth and depth of flavor.

3. Assemble the Sandwich

A cut-open Panes con Pollo sandwich showcasing juicy chicken, crispy bread, and fresh toppings, served with curtido and tamarind juice.

Slice the French bread rolls and lightly toast them.
Mix mayonnaise and mustard, spreading the mixture on the bread.
Layer with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, pickled carrots, and radishes.
Add shredded chicken and drizzle extra sauce on top.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and close the sandwich.

Serving Suggestion

Panes con Pollo pairs well with:

Curtido – Salvadoran cabbage slaw
Horchata or tamarind juice – Classic Salvadoran drinks
Yuca fries or fried plantains – A delicious side option

A close-up of someone biting into a juicy Panes con Pollo sandwich, with sauce dripping from the crispy bread.

For a street food-style experience, wrap the sandwich in parchment paper and serve with extra sauce.

Serve with sides: Pair with Quick Stir-Fry Vegetables or Southern-Style Unsweetened Cornbread for a hearty meal.

Tips for the Best Panes Con Pollo

Use bone-in chicken for the best flavor.
Toast the bread to prevent it from getting too soggy.
Let the chicken marinate overnight for a deeper taste.
Don’t skip the pickled veggies! They add the perfect crunch and acidity.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Pan Con Pavo (Turkey Version)

For a holiday twist, swap chicken for roasted turkey.

2. Vegan Option

Use jackfruit or mushrooms instead of chicken.

3. Gluten-Free Alternative

Serve with gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps.

4. Spicy Version

Add extra Guajillo chilies or a splash of hot sauce.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate chicken and sauce for up to 5 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Assemble sandwiches just before serving to keep them fresh.
Use leftovers in Authentic Birria Tacos or enchiladas!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What bread is best for Panes con Pollo?

Pan Francés is the traditional choice, but Bolillo, Hoagie rolls, or Baguette work just as well. Choose a bread that’s sturdy enough to hold the juicy filling without falling apart.

2. Is Panes con Pollo spicy?

Not typically! The sauce is rich and flavorful but mild. However, you can add hot sauce, extra chilies, or a dash of cayenne if you love heat.

3. Can I make Panes con Pollo ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Assemble the sandwich fresh to keep the bread from getting soggy.

4. What drinks pair well with Panes con Pollo?

Classic Salvadoran drinks like Horchata, tamarind juice, or a cold beer are perfect choices. They complement the sandwich’s rich flavors beautifully.

5. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely! Shred a store-bought rotisserie chicken, mix it with the sauce, and you’ll have a quick and delicious Panes con Pollo without extra cooking time.

1. What bread is best for Panes con Pollo?

Pan Francés is traditional, but Bolillo, Hoagie, or Baguette work well.

2. Is Panes con Pollo spicy?

No, but you can add hot sauce or chilies if you like heat.

3. Can I make Panes con Pollo ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, but assemble fresh.

4. What drinks pair well with Panes con Pollo?

Try Horchata, tamarind juice, or a cold beer.

5. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely! Shred a store-bought rotisserie chicken and mix with the sauce.

Final Thoughts

Panes con Pollo is more than just a sandwich—it’s a beloved Salvadoran dish that brings together bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and comforting textures in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast, a weekend meal, or a casual lunch, this authentic Salvadoran chicken sandwich is guaranteed to impress.

With its juicy, spice-infused chicken, rich tomato sauce, and crisp veggies, this sandwich delivers a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, it’s easy to customize, making it a great addition to your regular meal rotation.

And if you love Latin-inspired dishes, don’t miss our Gombo Soup Recipe for another comforting, flavorful meal.

Now that you have the perfect recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Try it out, share it with family and friends, and experience the true taste of El Salvador in your own kitchen.