Description
This Chicken Pesto Sandwich is a flavor-packed, hearty sandwich featuring juicy grilled or roasted chicken, creamy pesto, melted cheese, and fresh veggies all tucked into crusty bread. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, easy dinner, or meal prep. The combination of savory chicken and vibrant pesto makes every bite irresistible!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded (grilled, roasted, or rotisserie)
- 1/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 slices of mozzarella cheese (or provolone)
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 cup fresh arugula or spinach
- 4 ciabatta rolls, baguette sections, or hearty sandwich bread
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for toasting)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- Avocado slices for creaminess
- Roasted red peppers for extra flavor
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy kick
Instructions
- Prepare the bread:
- Slice the ciabatta rolls or sandwich bread in half.
- Lightly brush the cut sides with olive oil or butter.
- Toast the bread (optional but recommended):
- In a skillet or on a grill pan over medium heat, toast the bread cut-side down until golden and crispy. Set aside.
- Assemble the sandwich:
- Spread a generous layer of pesto on the bottom half of each roll.
- Layer the sliced chicken evenly over the pesto.
- Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper.
- Add slices of mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken.
- Layer with tomato slices, red onion, and fresh arugula or spinach.
- Add any optional toppings like avocado or roasted red peppers.
- Cover with the top half of the bread.
- Melt the cheese (optional):
- If you prefer a warm sandwich with melted cheese, place the assembled sandwiches in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes or until the cheese melts.
- Serve:
- Slice the sandwiches in half and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use leftover grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quick meal.
- Swap mozzarella for fresh burrata, Swiss, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- For a panini-style sandwich, press it in a panini press until crispy and golden.