Grilled Chicken Pesto Panini Recipe

This grilled chicken pesto panini is a delicious and satisfying sandwich that combines tender chicken, fresh pesto, and melted cheese, all pressed between crusty bread. It's perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.

The recipe is simple and can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy days. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheese to enhance the flavor.

Ingredients for a Perfect Panini

Creating a grilled chicken pesto panini starts with selecting the right ingredients.

You'll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which provide a tender and juicy base for the sandwich.

Fresh basil pesto adds a burst of flavor, while mozzarella cheese brings that delightful melty texture.

For the bread, ciabatta or sourdough works wonderfully, offering a crispy exterior and soft interior.

Don't forget to season with salt and pepper, and consider adding sliced tomatoes or spinach for extra freshness.

Cooking the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.

Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side.

Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before removing it from the heat.

Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices and tenderness.

Assembling the Panini

Once the chicken is sliced, it’s time to assemble your panini.

Spread basil pesto generously on one side of each slice of bread.

Layer the sliced chicken and mozzarella cheese on two slices, adding any optional vegetables you desire.

Top with the remaining slices of bread, pesto side down, creating a delicious sandwich ready for grilling.

Grilling to Perfection

Heat your panini press or grill pan over medium heat.

Brush the outside of the sandwiches with olive oil for that perfect golden crust.

Grill the sandwiches for about 3-5 minutes, watching closely until the bread is crispy and the cheese has melted beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Once grilled, cut the panini in half to reveal the gooey cheese and vibrant pesto.

Serve warm, accompanied by a side salad or chips for a complete meal.

The combination of flavors and textures makes this panini a satisfying choice for lunch or a casual dinner.

Quick and Tasty Grilled Chicken Pesto Panini

This panini features grilled chicken breast layered with basil pesto and mozzarella cheese, pressed until golden and crispy. The recipe serves 2 and is ready in about 25 minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup basil pesto
• 4 slices of ciabatta or sourdough bread
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: sliced tomatoes or spinach for added freshness

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Assemble the Panini: Spread basil pesto on one side of each slice of bread. Layer sliced chicken, mozzarella cheese, and any optional vegetables on two slices of bread. Top with the other slices, pesto side down.
3. Grill the Panini: Heat a panini press or grill pan over medium heat. Brush the outside of the sandwiches with the remaining olive oil. Grill the sandwiches for about 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
4. Serve: Cut the panini in half and serve warm. Enjoy with a side salad or chips.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Servings: 2 sandwiches
• Calories: 450kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 40g

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