Oh my goodness, let me share with you one of my absolute favorite summer go-to recipes: the Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pesto! Feast your eyes on this delicious creation. Picture this: it’s a warm Saturday afternoon, the grill is fired up, and the smell of marinated chicken fills the air. This sandwich has become a staple at my summer gatherings, and it never fails to impress, both in flavor and simplicity.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can whip it up for a casual lunch or dress it up for an outdoor dinner party. Plus, the bright, herbaceous flavor of fresh basil pesto elevates the chicken to a whole new level. Every time I make this sandwich, I’m transported back to those lazy afternoon get-togethers at my friend’s house where we lounged in the backyard, laughter and good food mingling in the air.
What’s in Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pesto?
Let’s break it down so you know exactly what you’ll need to create this delicious feast!
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! They are tender and juicy, perfect for grilling. If you want extra flavor, feel free to marinate them in some garlic, lemon juice, or even more pesto ahead of time.
Fresh Basil Pesto: This is where the magic happens! Homemade is always best, but I totally get it—sometimes you just don’t have the time. Look for a good quality store-bought version if that’s the case. It’s packed with flavor and requires no extra effort!
Ciabatta Rolls: I love using ciabatta for this sandwich because its crusty exterior pairs so nicely with the juicy chicken. However, any good sandwich bread will do!
Fresh Arugula or Microgreens: These add a peppery crunch that perfectly complements the richness of the pesto and chicken. Feel free to substitute with your greens of choice!
Olive Oil: A little brush on the grill grates keeps everything from sticking and adds a subtle flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Simple, but essential! These seasonings help enhance all the flavors in your sandwich.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Optional): If you’re a fan of tangy bursts, toss these in! They bring brightness and a slight sweetness to the mix.
Is Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pesto Good for You?
Absolutely! This sandwich is not only tasty but can also be quite nutritious. Here’s a quick look at the health benefits:
Chicken Breast: A lean protein source that helps build and repair tissues. It’s low in fat, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious eaters.
Pesto: Typically made with fresh basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil, it contains healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins. Just be mindful of the portioning, as it can be calorie-dense.
Arugula/Microgreens: Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and beneficial compounds, these greens are light yet nutritious. They add a fresh crunch, too!
Of course, moderation is key, especially with any added oils or bread types, but I think we all can indulge a little when it comes to delicious sandwiches, right?
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh basil pesto
– 4 ciabatta rolls (or your choice of sandwich bread)
– 1 cup fresh arugula or microgreens
– Olive oil, for grilling
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sun-dried tomatoes for garnish
Servings: 4 sandwich halves
How to Make Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pesto?
Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your mouthwatering masterpiece:
1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. It’s essential to get it nice and hot for that perfect grill mark!
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Don’t be shy; you want them well-seasoned.
3. Lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking—you want that chicken to be perfect!
4. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that golden exterior and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.
6. While the chicken is resting, slice your ciabatta rolls in half and toast them lightly on the grill for a couple of minutes until they’re golden brown and toasty.
7. Spread a generous amount of pesto on the bottom half of each toasted ciabatta roll. Seriously, go big or go home!
8. Slice the grilled chicken breasts and layer them on top of the pesto.
9. Add a handful of fresh arugula or microgreens on top of the chicken. You want that fresh crunch!
10. If you’re feeling adventurous, garnish with some sun-dried tomatoes.
11. Top with the other half of the ciabatta roll and serve immediately.
Voila! You’ve got yourself one delicious Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pesto.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich Mastery Tips
– If you want to take this sandwich to the next level, try marinating your chicken in balsamic vinegar and olive oil before grilling. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
– You can also swap out the pesto for a rosemary or garlic aioli for a different spin.
– Add some sliced fresh mozzarella or provolone cheese if you’re craving extra gooey goodness.
– Serve it alongside a light salad or freshly cut veggies for the perfect summer meal!
I genuinely hope you give this Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pesto a try! It’s one of those recipes that are practically foolproof and always delivers happiness on a plate. I’d love to hear how yours turns out. Share your experiences, modifications, or pictures if you feel inspired—you might just make my day! Happy cooking!
