Heart-Healthy Classic Panini Sandwich
Elevate your lunchtime routine with this Heart-Healthy Classic Panini Sandwich, a wholesome twist on the traditional favorite. Made with nutrient-packed whole grain bread and a creamy avocado spread enhanced with fresh lemon juice, this recipe offers a delicious boost of fiber and healthy fats. Succulent grilled chicken breast, juicy tomato slices, crisp baby spinach, and melty low-fat mozzarella cheese come together for a flavor-packed and nutrient-rich filling. Lightly brushed with heart-healthy extra virgin olive oil and grilled to golden perfection in a panini press, this sandwich is as satisfying as it is good for you. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick and nutritious lunch or dinner. Serve warm alongside a fresh side salad for a balanced and crave-worthy meal! Ideal for anyone looking for a healthy, delicious, and easy panini recipe.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 slices whole grain bread
- 1 medium avocado
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 medium (about 6 ounces) boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 2 ounces low-fat mozzarella cheese
- 1 medium tomato
- 1 pinch black pepper
- 1 pinch sea salt
Instructions
Begin by preparing the avocado spread. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a small bowl. Add lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and black pepper, then mash with a fork until smooth. Set aside.
Heat a grill pan over medium heat. Lightly coat the chicken breast with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Cook the chicken breast on the grill pan for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is no longer pink. Remove from heat, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it thinly.
While the chicken is cooking, thinly slice the tomato and set aside.
Preheat a panini press to medium heat.
Assemble the panini by spreading the avocado mixture evenly over two slices of bread.
Layer the spinach leaves, sliced chicken, tomato slices, and mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the avocado spread.
Close each sandwich with another slice of bread and lightly brush the top and bottom slices with olive oil.
Place the sandwiches in the preheated panini press and grill for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
Carefully remove the panini from the press, slice each sandwich in half, and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1127 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 54.5 g | 70% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.5 g | 62% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 157 mg | 52% | |
| Sodium | 2314 mg | 101% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 78.9 g | 29% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.1 g | 75% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.1 g | ||
| Protein | 83.7 g | 167% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 497 mg | 38% | |
| Iron | 6.9 mg | 38% | |
| Potassium | 1618 mg | 34% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
