Ciabatta Chicken Pesto Sandwich (25-Minutes)
Hey there! Today, I want to share with you a delicious and quick recipe for a Ciabatta Chicken Pesto Sandwich. This is one of my go-to meals when I’m in a hurry but still want something satisfying and full of flavor. I remember the first time I made this sandwich for my family, and they went crazy for it! The combination of tender chicken, creamy pesto, and crusty ciabatta bread is simply irresistible. So, let’s get started and whip up this mouthwatering sandwich in just 25 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This
I make this sandwich when I need a quick and filling meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. The flavors are fantastic, and the ingredients are easy to find. Plus, the ciabatta bread adds a nice crunch to every bite. Trust me, once you try this sandwich, it will become a regular in your meal rotation. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic in the park!
Ingredients
For the sandwich, you will need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ciabatta bread
- 4 tablespoons of pesto sauce
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1 cup of arugula
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional substitutions:
I sometimes use turkey or sliced ham instead of chicken when I’m in the mood for a different protein. You can also experiment with different types of bread. Whole wheat or sourdough work great too!
Directions
1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Set aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. While the chicken is resting, lightly toast the ciabatta bread slices. You can do this under the broiler or on a hot pan for a minute or two. This step adds a nice crunch to the sandwich.
3. Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto sauce on each slice of ciabatta bread. This creamy basil sauce adds a burst of flavor to the sandwich.
4. Layer the sliced chicken on two of the bread slices. Top with tomato slices and a handful of arugula. You can add more pesto sauce if desired.
5. Finally, close the sandwich with the remaining slices of bread. Press gently to hold everything together.
6. Slice the sandwich in half diagonally and serve immediately. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures!
Notes
I’ve found that grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the pesto sauce perfectly. However, if you don’t have a grill pan or skillet, you can also bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
Feel free to customize this sandwich to your liking. Add some sliced avocado or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra creaminess and tanginess. The possibilities are endless!
Variations
I’ve tried making this sandwich with different types of cheese, and my favorite is mozzarella. The mild and creamy cheese pairs beautifully with the pesto and chicken. However, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or even goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Equipment
If you don’t have a grill pan or skillet, you can use a regular non-stick pan to cook the chicken. Just make sure to add a little bit of oil to prevent sticking.
Storage
Though honestly, in my house, this sandwich never lasts more than a day! But if you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just be aware that the bread may lose some of its crunchiness.
Serving Suggestions
I personally love serving this sandwich with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad. The combination of flavors and textures is simply delightful. However, feel free to pair it with your favorite side dish or enjoy it on its own.
Pro Tips
Don’t rush the grilling process. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side to develop those beautiful grill marks. This step adds both visual appeal and flavor to the sandwich.
If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of grilling your own. Simply shred the chicken and warm it up before assembling the sandwich. It will still be delicious!
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
A: Absolutely! While ciabatta bread is perfect for this sandwich, you can use any bread you have on hand. Sourdough, baguette, or even a soft roll will work just fine.
Q: Can I make the pesto sauce from scratch?
A: Of course! If you have the time and ingredients, homemade pesto sauce is always a great option. Simply blend together fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before grilling or cooking.
There you have it! A delicious Ciabatta Chicken Pesto Sandwich that will satisfy your cravings in just 25 minutes. Give it a try and let me know what you think. Happy cooking!
Ciabatta Chicken Pesto Sandwich (25-Minutes)
A delicious and quick Ciabatta Chicken Pesto Sandwich that combines tender chicken, creamy pesto, and crusty ciabatta bread for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ciabatta bread
- 4 tablespoons of pesto sauce
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1 cup of arugula
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
-
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until done. Let it rest before slicing.
-
Lightly toast the ciabatta bread slices under the broiler or on a hot pan for a minute or two.
-
Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto sauce on each slice of ciabatta bread.
-
Layer the sliced chicken on two bread slices. Top with tomato slices and arugula. Add more pesto sauce if desired.
-
Close the sandwich with the remaining bread slices. Press gently to hold everything together.
-
Slice the sandwich in half diagonally and serve immediately.