Description
This Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pesto is a delicious and satisfying meal featuring juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned with garlic and pepper, layered with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomato slices, and peppery arugula, all nestled inside toasted ciabatta buns spread generously with fragrant basil pesto. Perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner, this sandwich combines fresh, vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients for a mouthwatering experience.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sandwich:
- 4 sandwich rolls or ciabatta buns, split
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella slices or shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup fresh tomato slices
- 1 cup fresh arugula or baby spinach
- Optional: butter or olive oil for toasting bread
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken evenly and achieving grill marks.
- Season Chicken: Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season all over evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
- Grill Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat once done.
- Rest and Slice: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy, then slice it if preferred for easier sandwich assembly and eating.
- Toast Buns: Lightly toast the sandwich rolls on the grill until warm and slightly crispy for added texture and flavor.
- Assemble Sandwich: Spread a generous amount of basil pesto on the cut sides of each roll. Layer the grilled chicken on the bottom halves, followed by mozzarella slices, tomato slices, and fresh arugula.
- Serve: Close the sandwiches with the top halves of the rolls and serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute grilled turkey breasts or large grilled portobello mushrooms for the chicken to vary the protein or make a vegetarian option.
- For extra flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze or squeeze fresh lemon juice over the sandwich fillings before closing.
- Butter or olive oil the buns before toasting for a richer taste and golden crisp exterior.
