Pesto Chicken Panini sounds like a wonderfully flavorful sandwich, with tender chicken, aromatic pesto, and crispy, melty goodness. Here’s a recipe to make this delicious panini:
Pesto Chicken Panini Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Bread: 2 slices of ciabatta, sourdough, or French baguette (for a hearty, crisp texture)
- Chicken: 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs (grilled or pan-seared)
- Pesto: 2 tablespoons of basil pesto (or sun-dried tomato pesto for a twist)
- Cheese: 2 slices of mozzarella cheese (or provolone or fontina for a meltier texture)
- Tomato: 2 slices of ripe tomato
- Lettuce: A handful of baby spinach or arugula (for freshness)
- Olive oil: for grilling the panini
- Garlic powder: a pinch (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt & pepper: to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season your chicken breast or thighs with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
- Heat a pan with a bit of olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.
2. Assemble the Panini:
- Spread basil pesto on both slices of bread. You can use a generous amount for a full flavor burst.
- Layer one slice with the sliced chicken, followed by tomato slices, and top with mozzarella cheese. Add a handful of spinach or arugula on top of the cheese for some green freshness.
- Place the second slice of bread on top to close the panini.
3. Grill the Panini:
- Heat a panini press or grill pan over medium heat. Brush the outsides of the bread with a little olive oil or butter for extra crispiness.
- Grill the sandwich in the panini press or pan for about 3-5 minutes, pressing down slightly, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
4. Serve:
- Slice the panini in half and serve immediately with a side of chips, a side salad, or pickles.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a Caprese salad would complement the fresh, vibrant flavors of the panini.
- Chips or Fries: Pair with crispy sweet potato fries or kettle chips for some crunch.
- Dipping Sauce: A side of balsamic glaze or garlic aioli would make a great dip for the panini.
Tips:
- Chicken Variation: If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken with turkey, grilled vegetables, or even prosciutto for a different flavor.
- Cheese Swap: Try cheddar or goat cheese for a tangier or richer twist on the classic mozzarella.
- Extra Crunch: If you like more crunch, you can add crispy bacon or fried onions to the sandwich.
Pesto Chicken Panini is the perfect combination of tender, flavorful chicken, creamy cheese, and aromatic pesto with the crispy crunch of grilled bread. It’s an easy-to-make yet delicious sandwich for lunch or dinner. Enjoy it with a simple side or a flavorful dip! Let me know if you’d like more variations!
