Chicken Pesto Sandwich with Mozzarella

The Chicken Pesto Sandwich with Mozzarella is a flavorful, satisfying, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

This sandwich combines tender grilled chicken, fresh pesto, and creamy mozzarella, all layered on crusty bread. The basil pesto adds a herby zing, while the gooey mozzarella melts to perfection for a warm, comforting bite. Whether you’re whipping this up for a quick meal or serving it at a gathering, it’s a sure crowd-pleaser!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Grill pan or skillet
• Knife and cutting board
• Small bowl and spoon
• Toaster or oven (for melting cheese)

Ingredients Overview

• Chicken Breast: Provides lean protein and pairs perfectly with pesto.
• Pesto Sauce: Adds a burst of fresh basil and garlic flavor.
• Mozzarella: Creamy and melty, it’s the perfect cheese for this sandwich.
• Bread: Choose a crusty option like ciabatta, baguette, or sourdough for the best texture.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
• 4 slices of crusty bread (ciabatta or sourdough recommended)
• 1/4 cup basil pesto
• 4 slices of fresh mozzarella or 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 small tomato, sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup baby spinach or arugula (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook them on a grill pan or skillet over medium heat for 6–8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let them rest, then slice thinly.
2. Assemble the Sandwich:
   • Spread basil pesto on one side of each slice of bread.
   • Layer the chicken slices on the pesto-covered bread. Add slices of mozzarella on top of the chicken.
   • If using, add tomato slices and baby spinach or arugula.
3. Toast the Sandwich:
   • Close the sandwich with the second slice of bread. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
   • Lightly brush the outside of the sandwich with olive oil or butter. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
4. Serve:
   • Remove from the skillet, slice the sandwich in half, and serve warm.

Recipe Tips

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker version, use shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for extra heat.
• Custom Bread Choices: Try focaccia or whole-grain bread for different textures and flavors.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Pair with a side of sweet potato fries, a light garden salad, or a bowl of tomato soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute grilled chicken with grilled zucchini, eggplant, or portobello mushrooms.

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the chicken and pesto in advance. Assemble and toast when ready to eat.

Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works wonderfully if you’re short on time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chicken Pesto Sandwich with a side of mixed greens or chips for a complete meal. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the filling for extra depth of flavor.

The Chicken Pesto Sandwich with Mozzarella

The Chicken Pesto Sandwich with Mozzarella is a flavorful, satisfying, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. This sandwich combines tender grilled chicken, fresh pesto, and creamy mozzarella, all layered on crusty bread. The basil pesto adds a herby zing, while the gooey mozzarella melts to perfection for a warm, comforting bite. Whether you’re whipping this up for a quick meal or serving it at a gathering, it’s a sure crowd-pleaser!

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Ingredients

  

• 2 chicken breasts cooked and sliced
• 4 slices of crusty bread ciabatta or sourdough recommended
• 1/4 cup basil pesto
• 4 slices of fresh mozzarella or 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 small tomato sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup baby spinach or arugula optional
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Prepare the Chicken:
• Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook them on a grill pan or skillet over medium heat for 6–8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let them rest, then slice thinly.
• Assemble the Sandwich:
• Spread basil pesto on one side of each slice of bread.
• Layer the chicken slices on the pesto-covered bread. Add slices of mozzarella on top of the chicken.
• If using, add tomato slices and baby spinach or arugula.
• Toast the Sandwich:
• Close the sandwich with the second slice of bread. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
• Lightly brush the outside of the sandwich with olive oil or butter. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
• Serve:
• Remove from the skillet, slice the sandwich in half, and serve warm.