Pesto chicken melt

Pesto chicken melt

Lunch

Item Rating: 64/100

1 serving (200 grams) contains 450 calories, 35.0 grams of protein, 20.0 grams of fat, and 30.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Log this food in SnapCalorie

★★★★★ 4.8/5.0 (2,000+ reviews)
Get your calorie requirement
Log your nutrition in seconds
Get a personalized nutrition plan
SnapCalorie App Screenshot
529.4
calories
41.2
protein
35.3
carbohydrates
23.5
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.3g)
Calories
529.4
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 23.5 g 30%
Saturated Fat 8.2 g 40%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 94.1 mg 31%
Sodium 941.2 mg 40%
Total Carbohydrates 35.3 g 12%
Dietary Fiber 2.4 g 8%
Sugars 3.5 g
protein 41.2 g 82%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 235.3 mg 18%
Iron 2.9 mg 16%
Potassium 470.6 mg 10%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar
⚠️ Contains trans fat

Source of Calories

27.3%
31.8%
40.9%
Fat: 211 cal (40.9%)
Protein: 164 cal (31.8%)
Carbs: 141 cal (27.3%)

About Pesto chicken melt

The Pesto Chicken Melt combines seasoned, grilled chicken with basil pesto, melted cheese, and often a crusty bread such as ciabatta or sourdough. Originating from Italian cuisine, the dish highlights pesto—a traditional blend of basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil—known for its rich, herby flavor. Depending on preparation, a single serving can deliver an average of 25-35 grams of protein primarily from chicken and cheese, healthy fats from olive oil in the pesto, and carbohydrates from bread. It may also provide essential micronutrients such as calcium, vitamin K, and zinc.

Health Benefits

  • Rich in protein (25-35 grams per serving), which supports muscle repair and overall body tissue maintenance.
  • Contains oleic acid from olive oil in pesto, a monounsaturated fat linked to improved heart health.
  • High in calcium from the cheese, promoting bone health and proper muscle function.
  • Vitamin K from basil in pesto contributes to blood clotting and bone metabolism.
  • Zinc from chicken supports immune function and wound healing.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains dairy (from cheese), nuts (pine nuts in pesto), gluten (if served on regular bread)
Suitable for: High-protein diets, mediterranean diets
Not suitable for: Vegan diets, nut-free diets, lactose-intolerant individuals without modifications

Selection and Storage

Store leftover pesto chicken melt in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in an oven or toaster to restore crispness and avoid sogginess.

Common Questions About Pesto chicken melt Nutrition

Is Pesto Chicken Melt high in protein?

Yes, a Pesto Chicken Melt is typically high in protein due to the chicken used as the primary ingredient. On average, a serving (one sandwich) provides around 30-40 grams of protein, depending on the portion size and specific ingredients used.

Can I eat a Pesto Chicken Melt on a keto diet?

A Pesto Chicken Melt can be keto-friendly if prepared without bread or with keto-friendly bread options. The chicken and pesto are low-carb, but attention must be paid to the type of bread or cheese to ensure it aligns with keto macros.

What are the health benefits or concerns of eating a Pesto Chicken Melt?

A Pesto Chicken Melt offers benefits such as high protein content for muscle repair and healthy fats from the pesto (typically made with olive oil and nuts). However, it may be high in calories and sodium due to cheese and processed bread, which could be a concern for those watching their intake of these nutrients.

What is a recommended serving size for a Pesto Chicken Melt?

A typical serving of a Pesto Chicken Melt is one sandwich, which averages around 400-600 calories depending on the preparation. Pairing it with a side salad instead of fries can help maintain a balanced meal.

How does a Pesto Chicken Melt compare to a regular grilled chicken sandwich?

A Pesto Chicken Melt includes added calories and fats from the pesto and cheese compared to a standard grilled chicken sandwich. However, it provides more flavor and additional healthy fats from the pesto, making it a more indulgent option.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.