Chicken Pesto Sandwich
Flavorful Delight: Chicken Pesto Sandwich Recipe for a Tasty Treat
Who doesn’t love a good sandwich? The combination of flavors and textures packed between two slices of bread is a culinary delight. One sandwich that never fails to impress is the Chicken Pesto Sandwich. It’s a harmonious blend of tender chicken, vibrant pesto, and complementary ingredients that make every bite a savory experience.
Ingredients:
For the Pesto:
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts
3 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwich:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to season
4 slices of your favorite sandwich bread (ciabatta or focaccia work well)
1 tomato, sliced
4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
Handful of fresh spinach or arugula leaves
Directions:
1. Prepare the Pesto:
In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts (or walnuts), garlic, salt, and pepper.
While blending, slowly add the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined. Set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Then slice them into thin pieces.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
Take each slice of bread and spread a generous amount of the prepared pesto on one side.
Layer the sliced tomato, cooked chicken, mozzarella cheese, and fresh spinach or arugula on two slices of bread.
Top with the remaining bread slices, pesto side down.
4. Toast or Grill the Sandwich (Optional):
If desired, heat a panini press, grill pan, or skillet over medium heat.
Place the assembled sandwiches onto the heated surface and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the bread turns golden brown, and the cheese melts.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the sandwiches are nicely toasted (if preferred), remove them from the heat.
Cut the sandwiches diagonally and serve warm.
Why This Sandwich Rocks:
The beauty of this Chicken Pesto Sandwich lies in the harmony of its ingredients. The vibrant green pesto infuses the dish with aromatic basil, complemented by the richness of the Parmesan cheese. The tender, flavorful chicken paired with the creamy mozzarella cheese creates a satisfying combination. The fresh vegetables add a refreshing crunch, making each bite a symphony of flavors.
This sandwich isn’t just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also versatile. You can personalize it by adding roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, or even avocado slices for an extra creamy touch. Pair it with a side salad, some chips, or enjoy it on its own—it’s a delightful meal either way.
So, whether you’re hosting a lunch gathering or craving a flavorful meal, this Chicken Pesto Sandwich is a winner. Its simplicity in preparation and explosion of taste make it a beloved choice for all ages. Try it out and elevate your sandwich game today!
Chicken Pesto Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Sandwich:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to season
- 4 slices of your favorite sandwich bread (ciabatta or focaccia work well)
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- Handful of fresh spinach or arugula leaves
Instructions
- Directions:
- Prepare the Pesto:
- In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts (or walnuts), garlic, salt, and pepper.
- While blending, slowly add the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Then slice them into thin pieces.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Take each slice of bread and spread a generous amount of the prepared pesto on one side.
- Layer the sliced tomato, cooked chicken, mozzarella cheese, and fresh spinach or arugula on two slices of bread.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, pesto side down.
- Toast or Grill the Sandwich (Optional):
- If desired, heat a panini press, grill pan, or skillet over medium heat.
- Place the assembled sandwiches onto the heated surface and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the bread turns golden brown, and the cheese melts.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the sandwiches are nicely toasted (if preferred), remove them from the heat.
- Cut the sandwiches diagonally and serve warm.
