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Chicken Pesto Sandwich Recipe

Chicken Pesto Sandwich Recipe


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4.7 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Savor the ultimate chicken pesto sandwich that blends Mediterranean flavors with creamy textures and zesty herb notes. Crisp bread, juicy grilled chicken, and fragrant basil pesto create a quick, satisfying meal perfect for lunch or casual dining.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 454 grams)
  • 4 ciabatta rolls
  • 6 ounces (170 grams) fresh mozzarella
  • 4 Roma tomatoes

Seasoning and Herbs:

  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • salt (to taste)
  • freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

Condiments and Oils:

  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil
  • 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • ⅓ cup pesto
  • additional avocado oil

Instructions

  1. Transform chicken breasts into thin, even cutlets by slicing horizontally and gently pounding any thick sections. Generously season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor profile.
  2. Preheat skillet to medium-high heat with avocado oil. Carefully place seasoned chicken cutlets and sear for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 160°F. Transfer cooked chicken to a resting plate.
  3. Utilize the same skillet without cleaning to toast ciabatta rolls face down, absorbing residual flavors. Cook for 1-2 minutes until surfaces turn crisp and golden.
  4. Create sandwich layers by spreading mayonnaise on one ciabatta half and pesto on the opposite side. Arrange seared chicken cutlets, followed by fresh mozzarella slices and Roma tomato pieces.
  5. Lightly brush sandwich exteriors with additional avocado oil. Return sandwiches to skillet, pressing gently and cooking 2 minutes per side until mozzarella melts and entire sandwich becomes heated through.

Notes

  • Slice chicken breasts horizontally for even, quick cooking and better texture throughout the sandwich.
  • Use a meat tenderizer or rolling pin to pound thicker parts of chicken for uniform thickness and consistent cooking.
  • Choose high-quality, fresh pesto for maximum taste impact and authentic Italian-inspired experience.
  • Opt for room temperature mozzarella to ensure smooth melting and better integration with other ingredients.
  • Consider gluten-free ciabatta or lettuce wraps for low-carb or celiac-friendly alternatives.
  • Add crispy bacon or prosciutto for extra protein and rich, salty dimension to the sandwich.
  • Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or avocado spread for lighter, healthier version.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 570
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 850 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 44 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg