Chicken Pesto Sandwich Recipe

If ever there was a sandwich guaranteed to wow your lunchtime taste buds, it’s the Chicken Pesto Sandwich! This toasty masterpiece brings together juicy, herbed chicken, creamy fresh mozzarella, vibrant tomatoes, and a swirl of pesto with golden, crispy ciabatta bread. Every bite is a warm, melty celebration of color, texture, and irresistible Italian-inspired flavor. If you’re looking for a recipe that feels like a treat but comes together in about 30 minutes, this Chicken Pesto Sandwich is about to become your new favorite comfort food!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to a stellar Chicken Pesto Sandwich lies in using a handful of quality ingredients that all play a special role: tender chicken, aromatic seasonings, fresh cheese, and crisp bread. Each element brings its own unique flair, making every bite memorable.

• Chicken breasts: Go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for juicy cutlets that cook quickly and stay tender in the sandwich.
• Italian seasoning: This classic blend adds a beautiful herbaceous punch that pairs perfectly with both the chicken and the pesto.
• Salt & black pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper and just the right touch of salt make the flavors pop without overpowering.
• Avocado oil: For both searing the chicken and crisping the outsides of the sandwich, avocado oil gives a neutral flavor and a golden crunch.
• Ciabatta rolls: Their airy, chewy texture stands up to juicy fillings and gets perfectly crispy when toasted.
• Mayonnaise: Optional, but highly recommended for extra moisture and flavor on every bite.
• Pesto: This basil-based sauce supplies hugs of herby, nutty goodness in each sandwich layer.
• Fresh mozzarella: Creamy, milky mozzarella melts to stringy, dreamy perfection.
• Roma tomatoes: Sliced fresh for tang and juiciness, tomatoes bring brightness and balance.

How to Make Chicken Pesto Sandwich

Step 1: Slice and Tenderize the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice each one horizontally to create four evenly sized cutlets. If some spots are thicker, use a meat tenderizer or rolling pin to gently pound them out so every piece cooks evenly.

Step 2: Season the Chicken Cutlets

Generously sprinkle both sides of each chicken cutlet with Italian seasoning, salt, and plenty of freshly cracked black pepper. Make sure the seasoning gets everywhere—a well-seasoned piece of chicken is the heart of every Chicken Pesto Sandwich.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat your large skillet over medium-high. Once it’s nice and hot, add a tablespoon of avocado oil and swirl it to coat the pan. Immediately lay in the chicken cutlets, giving each piece enough room. Sear for 3 to 5 minutes per side, flipping once, until the chicken is golden and the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Transfer to a large plate and set aside.

Step 4: Toast the Ciabatta Rolls

While your skillet is still warm, place the sliced ciabatta rolls cut-side down in the pan. Toast them for just a minute or two until they’re warm and lightly golden—working in batches if needed. This creates a perfect, sturdy base for all those tasty fillings!

Step 5: Assemble the Chicken Pesto Sandwich

On your cutting board, lay the toasted ciabatta open-faced. Spread 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise over one half (optional, but highly encouraged for rich flavor). On the other half, spread a generous 1 ¼ tablespoons of pesto to cover the surface. Top the mayo side with a cooked chicken cutlet, then layer on 1 ½ ounces of fresh mozzarella and thick slices of tomato. Cap each sandwich with the pesto-covered ciabatta half.

Step 6: Grill and Melt

Lightly brush the tops of your sandwiches with avocado oil, then carefully return them to the skillet oil-side down. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, pressing gently—this helps the mozzarella melt and the bread crisp up beautifully. Once the cheese is gooey and everything is piping hot, remove and serve right away.

How to Serve Chicken Pesto Sandwich

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley instantly brightens up your Chicken Pesto Sandwich and adds a hint of freshness. Try an extra drizzle of pesto or a quick grating of parmesan over the top right before serving for a gourmet touch.

Side Dishes

These sandwiches are a meal on their own, but they shine even brighter next to a crisp green salad, a bowl of Italian-style tomato soup, or some crunchy kettle chips. For a summery spin, sliced cucumbers or roasted vegetables make a colorful, healthy plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your Chicken Pesto Sandwiches in halves or triangles and stack them on a wooden board for party-perfect presentation. Or skewer them with hefty picks and serve with tiny ramekins of extra pesto and aioli as hearty sliders at a casual get-together!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you wind up with leftover Chicken Pesto Sandwiches, wrap them tightly and pop them in the fridge. They’ll hold up well for about one day, but the bread is at its crispiest straight out of the skillet, so plan to enjoy the sandwich soon.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t ideal for the full assembled sandwich, since the tomatoes and cheese change texture when thawed. However, you can prep the cooked chicken in advance and freeze it in an airtight container for up to two months. That way, hot and fresh Chicken Pesto Sandwiches are yours in a flash!

Reheating

For the best texture, wrap any leftover sandwiches in foil and reheat them in a preheated oven until warmed through. This gently revives the bread’s crunch and gets the mozzarella deliciously melty again.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Chicken Pesto Sandwich?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken makes this already speedy recipe even faster. Warm it up and follow the same assembly and toasting instructions for a satisfying shortcut.

What is the best bread for this sandwich?

Ciabatta rolls are perfect thanks to their chewy, airy texture and ability to hold up to all the juicy fillings, but you can try focaccia, sourdough, or even a sturdy baguette if desired.

Is store-bought pesto okay for Chicken Pesto Sandwich?

Of course! Store-bought pesto works wonderfully and keeps things super easy. If you have fresh basil and pine nuts, homemade pesto is always special but not required for a delicious sandwich.

How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?

Be sure to toast the bread before assembling and don’t overload the sandwich with tomatoes. A light spread of mayo or pesto on each side of the bread acts as a barrier to moisture and helps everything hold together.

Can I make Chicken Pesto Sandwiches gluten-free?

Definitely! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free rolls or bread, and double-check that your pesto is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally friendly for gluten-free eaters.

Final Thoughts

Warm, cheesy, herby, and utterly satisfying, the Chicken Pesto Sandwich is one of those recipes you’ll crave on repeat. Give it a try—whether for lunch, dinner, or even a cozy weekend brunch—and watch it become the star of your mealtime rotation!

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