Pesto Chicken Sandwich

Why Make This Recipe

Pesto Chicken Sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, fresh mozzarella, and vibrant pesto. It’s easy to make and perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. With simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful sandwich that everyone will love.

How to Make Pesto Chicken Sandwich

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 4 ciabatta rolls
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 slices fresh mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup pesto
  • 1 tomato (sliced)
  • 2 cups arugula

Directions

  1. Slice the chicken breasts in half to ensure even cooking. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Grill or sauté the chicken until cooked throughout.
  2. While the chicken is cooking, lightly brush the inside of the ciabatta rolls with olive oil. Toast them on the grill or in a sauté pan until they’re golden brown.
  3. Once the chicken is cooked, place it on a cookie sheet. Top each piece with mozzarella cheese. Put the sheet under the broiler until the cheese melts.
  4. Spread pesto on the top half of each bun. Assemble the sandwich by adding the chicken, tomato slices, and arugula. Close the sandwich and serve immediately.

How to Serve Pesto Chicken Sandwich

Serve the Pesto Chicken Sandwich warm, right after you make it. You can pair it with a side of chips, a salad, or some fresh fruit for a complete meal. This sandwich is great for lunch or a casual dinner.

How to Store Pesto Chicken Sandwich

If you have leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or a grill until warmed through. The bread may not stay as crispy, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Tips to Make Pesto Chicken Sandwich

  • Make sure to slice the chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
  • Use fresh mozzarella for the best flavor and melty texture.
  • Try different types of bread, like sourdough or whole grain, for a unique twist.
  • Add avocado or other veggies for extra nutrients and flavor.

Variation

You can easily customize this sandwich. For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

FAQs

Can I make the pesto at home?
Yes! Homemade pesto is easy to make with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and parmesan cheese.

Can I freeze Pesto Chicken Sandwich?
It’s best to freeze the cooked chicken separately from the assembled sandwich. You can freeze chicken for up to three months. Thaw and reheat when ready to use.

What can I serve with Pesto Chicken Sandwich?
This sandwich pairs well with a light salad, potato chips, or a fruit salad. You can also serve it with a bowl of soup for a comforting meal.

Pesto Chicken Sandwich

A delicious and satisfying sandwich filled with grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, and vibrant pesto, perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the chicken
  • 2 pieces chicken breasts Slice in half for even cooking.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
For the sandwich
  • 4 rolls ciabatta rolls Lightly brush with olive oil.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For toasting the rolls.
  • 4 slices fresh mozzarella Use fresh for best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup pesto Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1 piece tomato (sliced) For sandwich filling.
  • 2 cups arugula For freshness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Slice the chicken breasts in half to ensure even cooking.
  2. Sprinkle the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Cooking
  1. Grill or sauté the chicken until fully cooked.
  2. While the chicken is cooking, lightly brush the inside of the ciabatta rolls with olive oil.
  3. Toast the rolls on the grill or in a sauté pan until they’re golden brown.
  4. Once the chicken is cooked, place it on a cookie sheet and top each piece with mozzarella cheese.
  5. Put the sheet under the broiler until the cheese melts.
Assembly
  1. Spread pesto on the top half of each toasted roll.
  2. Assemble the sandwich by adding the chicken, tomato slices, and arugula.
  3. Close the sandwich and serve immediately.

Notes

Serve warm with a side of chips, salad, or fresh fruit. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days and reheated in a toaster oven or grill.