Chicken Pesto Panini

Chicken Pesto Panini Recipe

Yield: 2 Paninis

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on your grill/panini press)

Ingredients:

• Bread:

  • 4 slices of sourdough, focaccia, ciabatta, or your favorite sturdy bread

• Protein:

  • 1 chicken breast, cut in half (you can also use rotisserie chicken)

• Pesto:

  • 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

  • Mayonnaise (Optional)

• Cheese:

  • 4 slices provolone, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack cheese

• Vegetables (optional):

  • 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper

  • 1/4 cup sliced red onion

  • Fresh basil leaves

  • Sliced tomatoes.

• Optional:

  • Olive oil.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • If using raw chicken, cook it until it's fully cooked. Then dice or slice it.

   • Slice any vegetables you're using.

2. Assemble the Paninis:

   • Slice the bread in half horizontally.

   • Spread pesto on the inside of both halves of each bread slice, or use mayonnaise on one half

   • On the bottom half of each bread slice, layer the chicken, cheese, and any vegetables you're using.

   • Top with the other half of the bread.

3. Grill the Paninis:

   • If you have a panini press, preheat it.

   • If you don't have a panini press, you can use a grill pan or a skillet.

   • If using a skillet or grill pan, lightly brush the outside of the bread with olive oil.

   • Place the paninis on the hot grill or skillet.

   • If using a skillet, press down on the paninis with a heavy object (like another skillet or a can) to flatten them.

   • Grill for 3-5 minutes per side or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

4. Serve:

   • Cut the paninis in half and serve immediately.

Tips and Variations:

• For extra flavor: Sauté the bell peppers and onions before adding them to the paninis.

• Cheese variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as fontina or gouda.

• Vegetable additions: Add other vegetables like spinach, arugula, or sun-dried tomatoes.

• Homemade pesto: If you have the time, homemade pesto is always a delicious addition.

• Bread types: any good sturdy bread will work.

Enjoy your delicious chicken pesto panini!