Italian Chicken Panini: A Quick and Delicious Sandwich

The Italian Chicken Panini is a flavorful, easy-to-make sandwich that combines tender chicken breast, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant pesto, all pressed between two slices of Italian bread. Perfect for lunch or a quick dinner, this panini brings together the rich tastes of Italy in under 10 minutes.

Quick Benefits

Quick and easy: This sandwich can be made in just 5 minutes of prep time and 5 minutes of cooking, making it an ideal option for a fast and delicious meal.
High in protein: With sliced cooked chicken breast and mozzarella cheese, this panini offers a good amount of protein to keep you full and energized.
Packed with flavor: The combination of pesto, mozzarella, and chicken creates a mouthwatering, savory sandwich that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

Essential Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil (or as needed)
2 slices Italian bread
1 tablespoon pesto
2 slices mozzarella cheese
¼ pound sliced cooked chicken breast

Preparation Steps

Preheat the grill: Start by preheating your electric grill (such as a George Foreman®) to medium heat.
Prepare the bread: Spread olive oil on one side of each slice of Italian bread.
Assemble the panini: Place one slice of bread, oil-side down, on the preheated grill. Spread half of the pesto on the bread, then layer one slice of mozzarella cheese on top. Add the sliced cooked chicken breast over the cheese and top with the remaining mozzarella slice. Spread the rest of the pesto on the other slice of bread and place it on top of the sandwich, oil-side up.
Grill the panini: Close the grill and cook for about 4 minutes or until the cheese has melted, and the bread is golden brown and crispy.
Serve and enjoy: Once the panini is done, remove it from the grill, slice, and enjoy!

Health Benefits

High in protein: The chicken and mozzarella provide a substantial amount of protein, which is important for muscle repair and overall body function.
Healthy fats: The olive oil adds a dose of healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Calcium: The mozzarella cheese is a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.

However, this panini is also relatively high in fat and calories, so it’s best to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad: Pair your Italian Chicken Panini with a light green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Pair with chips or fries: For a more filling meal, serve the panini with a side of crispy potato chips or French fries.
Add a drink: Enjoy your sandwich with a refreshing drink such as iced tea, lemonade, or a glass of wine for a full Italian-inspired meal.

Creative Variations

Add vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrients, add some roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, or arugula to the sandwich.
Spicy twist: If you like a bit of heat, add a few slices of jalapeño peppers or drizzle some hot sauce on the chicken before grilling.
Different cheese: Swap the mozzarella for provolone, fontina, or a sharp cheddar for a different cheese flavor.
Grilled chicken: If you prefer grilled chicken, swap the cooked sliced chicken breast with grilled chicken breast for a smoky flavor.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: If you have leftover panini (though unlikely!), wrap it in foil or parchment paper and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To reheat, warm it in a toaster oven or on the grill.
Freezing: Freezing a panini is not recommended, as it may alter the texture of the bread and cheese when reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Pro Tips

Don’t overstuff: Avoid overstuffing the panini with too much filling, as it could spill out while grilling. Stick to a moderate amount of chicken and cheese for the perfect balance.
Grill until golden: Be sure to grill the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and crispy, as this gives the panini its signature texture.
Use a heavy pan if no grill: If you don’t have an electric grill, you can use a heavy skillet and press down with a second pan to achieve the same effect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! You can substitute Italian bread with other types like sourdough, ciabatta, or whole-grain bread for a different texture and flavor.

Can I make this panini in a regular skillet?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an electric grill, you can use a skillet on the stove. Just heat the skillet, add a bit of olive oil, and grill the sandwich, pressing it down with a spatula or another pan to ensure it grills evenly.

Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works just fine if you don’t have homemade pesto on hand. However, fresh pesto will offer a more vibrant, homemade taste.

Can I use turkey or ham instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey or ham can be used as alternatives to chicken for a different twist on the sandwich. These options still pair wonderfully with mozzarella and pesto.

Enjoy this Italian Chicken Panini as a quick, satisfying meal that brings the flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen in just 10 minutes!