The Viral TikTok Chopped Italian Sandwich Recipe

5 from 1 vote

The Viral TikTok Chopped Italian Sandwich Recipe

This viral chopped Italian sandwich is bold, creamy, and crunchy—with toasted ciabatta, zesty pepperoncini aioli, and a balsamic glaze twist. Ready in 20 minutes, it's the ultimate no-fuss, flavor-packed sandwich.

Prep Time10

Cook Time10

Total Time20

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: chopped italian sandwich, italian chopped sandwich

Servings:

Author: Anthony Rodriguez

Cost: 20

Ingredients

For the Sandwich Base

1 loaf crusty Italian bread or ciabatta, baguette, or Italian sub rolls
1/2 cup shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce crispy lettuce adds crunch
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped soaked in water to mellow
4 slices deli pepperoni
4 slices genoa salami or hot soppressata for extra spice)
4 slices mortadella or prosciutto cotto
2 slices provolone cheese or swap for mozzarella cheese or fresh mozzarella
4 pepperoncini peppers, chopped
2 tbsp banana peppers optional, but great for a little bit of tang and spice
2 slices tomato Optional: or red peppers, cherry tomatoes

For the Zesty Italian Dressing

2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp mayo or cream cheese a for creamy texture
1 pinch chili flakes
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 pinch Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pepperoncini Aioli:

1/4 cup cup mayo
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp finely chopped pepperoncini
1 pinch each of salt, black pepper and garlic powder to taste

Instructions

Make the Dressings - Whisk together the zesty Italian dressing in a small bowl. In another small bowl, make the pepperoncini aioli. Set aside.
Chop the Meat - Layer your cold cuts and cheese. Use a sharp knife to chop into bite-sized pieces.
Dice Vegetables - Add red onion, romaine or iceberg lettuce, pepperoncini, and banana peppers. Use a large cutting board and mix the meats into the vegetables.
Mix It Up - Transfer chopped ingredients to a large bowl. Add 2–3 tbsp of the zesty Italian dressing and toss until coated. This creamy, grinder salad-like mix is where the magic happens.
Toast the Bread - Split your ciabatta or Italian sub rolls and toast them in an oven or under the broiler until golden brown. About 2-3 minutes.
Add the Aioli - Spread a generous amount of the pepperoncini aioli on the toasted bread. This is the creamy glue that pulls the sandwich together.
Build the Sandwich - Pile your filling high. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a subtle sweetness. Press, slice, and serve.
Serve immediately with a fresh air fryer, a healthy side dish, crunchy potato chips, zucchini, or even potato salad.

Notes

Chop for texture: Use a sharp chef’s knife to get uniform, bite-sized pieces—this gives every bite the perfect mix of meat, cheese, and veggies. Avoid over-chopping into a mush.
Layer flavor in the aioli: Let the pepperoncini aioli sit for 10–15 minutes before spreading—it allows the flavors to meld and adds more depth.
Toast with care: Toast the bread just until golden—not too hard—so it stays crisp but still chewy enough to bite through easily.
Balance the acid: If your sandwich feels too sharp or vinegary, a small drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze helps mellow it out.
Make it picnic-perfect: Assemble the chopped filling ahead and store it separately. Toast and build sandwiches fresh for the best crunch.

Nutrition