Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite Chicken Pesto Sandwich! This delicious creation is one of my go-to meals for a quick weeknight dinner or even a weekend picnic. Ever since I discovered how simple it is to whip up this flavorful sandwich, it has become a staple in my kitchen. I remember the first time I made it—my friends nearly devoured them in seconds, leaving me chuckling and instantly declared “more, please!”
What makes this Chicken Pesto Sandwich so special is the combination of juicy grilled chicken, fresh pesto, and the creamy goodness of mozzarella—each bite is a perfect symphony of flavors! Plus, it’s customizable, so you can add your favorite toppings or change it according to your taste. Ready to learn how to make this delightful dish? Let’s go!
What’s in Chicken Pesto Sandwich?
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Lean and protein-packed, they grill beautifully and make the perfect base for this sandwich.
– Salt and pepper: Just a sprinkle for seasoning—the essentials to enhance all the flavors of your ingredients.
– Olive oil: This helps keep the chicken moist while grilling. Make sure to use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for that lovely flavor.
– Pesto sauce: The flavor bomb! Basil pesto brings a fresh, herbal note that elevates the entire sandwich. You can use store-bought or homemade—whichever you prefer!
– Mozzarella cheese: Melty and creamy, mozzarella balances out the pesto perfectly. I love using slices for that gooey goodness.
– Ciabatta rolls or sandwich buns: These hearty rolls are perfect for holding all the fillings! If you can find fresh ciabatta, you’re in for a treat.
– Sun-dried tomatoes: A bit of tangy sweetness to round out the flavor profile—don’t skip these, they add a fantastic dimension!
– Fresh arugula (rocket): This peppery green adds a wonderful crunch and freshness to each bite.
– Optional: Balsamic glaze: A drizzle of this sweet-and-sour delight elevates the sandwich to gourmet level. Totally optional but highly recommended!
Is Chicken Pesto Sandwich Good for You?
Absolutely! This sandwich is brimming with health benefits while also being super satisfying.
– Chicken breasts: A great source of lean protein, essential for building muscle and keeping you feeling full. Plus, it’s low in fat when skinned and boneless.
– Pesto sauce: If made with fresh basil, pine nuts, and olive oil, it’s rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. You might want to watch out for store-bought versions, as some can be high in added oils and preservatives.
– Arugula: This leafy green is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, and offers a boost of calcium—and let’s face it, it’s just so much fun to say!
While the sandwich is quite nutritious, remember that moderation is key—enjoying a few too many can lead to extra calories, especially with the cheese and any added condiments. But when you savor each bite, I promise you won’t regret it!
You Will Need:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 tablespoons pesto sauce
– 4 slices of mozzarella cheese
– 4 ciabatta rolls or sandwich buns
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh arugula (rocket)
– Optional: Balsamic glaze for drizzling
*Serves 4
How to Make Chicken Pesto Sandwich?
1. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken gets a nice sear!
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Drizzle olive oil over both sides—this will keep them juicy and flavorful.
3. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let them rest for 5 minutes—that’s a crucial step for juicy chicken!
4. Slice the grilled chicken into thinner pieces and spread pesto sauce generously on each side of the ciabatta rolls. Don’t be shy with that pesto!
5. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on the bottom half of each roll. Then, layer on the sliced grilled chicken, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and a handful of arugula.
6. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor before topping with the other half of the roll.
7. Serve immediately and dig in! You’ve just created a mouthwatering Chicken Pesto Sandwich!
Let’s Take it Up a Notch!
Looking to switch things up? Here are a few fun variations to try:
– Swap out the ciabatta rolls for whole grain bread for a healthier twist.
– Add roasted red peppers for a sweeter flavor.
– Throw in some sliced avocado for added creaminess.
– Make it even more gourmet with a sprinkle of pine nuts on top!
Whatever you choose, this Chicken Pesto Sandwich is sure to impress.
I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal, yet delicious enough to serve at a weekend gathering. If you try it out, please share! I would love to hear how you made it your own. Happy cooking!
