Why Youโll Love This Recipe
The Chicken Pesto Sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines juicy chicken, fresh basil pesto, and melty cheese, all nestled between slices of perfectly toasted bread. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a delicious lunch. The vibrant flavors of the pesto paired with tender chicken create a delightful culinary experience that’s both hearty and refreshing.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
- Fresh basil pesto
- Slices of mozzarella cheese
- Fresh tomatoes, sliced
- Spinach or arugula leaves
- Ciabatta, sourdough, or your favorite sandwich bread
- Olive oil or butter for toasting
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat a skillet or panini press over medium heat.
- Spread a generous amount of basil pesto on one side of each slice of bread.
- Layer the chicken, mozzarella cheese, tomato slices, and spinach or arugula on one slice of the bread. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with the other slice of bread, pesto side down.
- Lightly brush the outside of the sandwich with olive oil or butter.
- Place the sandwich in the skillet or panini press and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted, about 3-4 minutes per side if using a skillet.
- Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then slice and serve.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 2 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with an additional 8 minutes for cooking, totaling around 18 minutes.
Variations
- Grilled Chicken Pesto Sandwich:ย Use freshly grilled chicken for an added smoky flavor.
- Spicy Kick:ย Add a few slices of jalapeno or a dash of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Vegan Version:ย Substitute chicken with grilled tofu or roasted vegetables and use vegan pesto and cheese.
- Different Cheeses:ย Try provolone, gouda, or fontina for a unique twist.
- Pesto Variations:ย Experiment with sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for different flavor profiles.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and the bread is crispy again, about 3-4 minutes per side. Avoid microwaving as it may make the bread soggy.
FAQs
What type of bread works best for a Chicken Pesto Sandwich?
Ciabatta, sourdough, or any crusty bread that holds up well to toasting works great.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to toast it just before serving to maintain its crispy texture.
Is it possible to use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely, rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option.
Can I freeze Chicken Pesto Sandwiches?
It’s not recommended as the texture of the bread and fresh ingredients may change after freezing and thawing.
What can I use instead of mozzarella?
Provolone, gouda, or Swiss cheese are great alternatives.
How do I make this sandwich healthier?
Use whole-grain bread, light cheese, and add extra veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works fine, but homemade pesto offers a fresher flavor.
How do I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?
Spread pesto evenly without overloading, and toast the bread well to create a barrier against moisture.
What sides pair well with a Chicken Pesto Sandwich?
A side salad, sweet potato fries, or a cup of soup complement the sandwich nicely.
Is this sandwich suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s kid-friendly. You can adjust ingredients like skipping tomatoes or using mild cheese to suit their preferences.
Conclusion
The Chicken Pesto Sandwich is a quick, flavorful, and versatile meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its savory combination of tender chicken, fresh pesto, and melty cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch, dinner, or a picnic, this sandwich delivers a delicious, satisfying bite every time.
Print
Chicken Pesto Sandwich
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Grilled, Assembled
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Description
This Chicken Pesto Sandwich is a flavorful, hearty meal featuring juicy grilled chicken, fresh basil pesto, melted mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes, all layered on crusty ciabatta bread. Itโs perfect for a quick lunch or an easy dinner thatโs packed with fresh, bold flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1 cup baby spinach or arugula (optional)
- 2 ciabatta rolls (or sandwich rolls of choice), sliced in half
- Butter (optional, for toasting the bread)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Grill or pan-cook the chicken over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165ยฐF (75ยฐC).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread about 1 tablespoon of pesto on the inside of each bread slice.
- Layer the sliced chicken on the bottom halves of the rolls.
- Top with mozzarella slices, tomato slices, and spinach or arugula (if using).
- Place the top halves of the bread over the fillings.
- Toast the Sandwich (Optional):
- Lightly butter the outside of the bread if you prefer a crispy finish.
- Grill the sandwich in a panini press or on a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until the bread is golden and the cheese has melted.
- Serve:
- Slice in half and serve warm. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can swap ciabatta for sourdough, focaccia, or any crusty bread.
- Add avocado slices or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
- For a spicy kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes to the pesto.
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