Pesto Chicken and Arugula Panini
Elevate your sandwich game with this Pesto Chicken and Arugula Panini, a perfect harmony of bold flavors and hearty textures. Tender grilled chicken is seasoned with Italian herbs and layered with creamy mozzarella, vibrant arugula, and a generous spread of basil pesto, all nestled between slices of crusty ciabatta bread. This panini is golden-toasted to perfection, ensuring a satisfying crunch with every bite, while the gooey melted cheese and savory pesto tie it all together. Ready in just 35 minutes, this irresistible recipe is ideal for lunch, dinner, or a quick gourmet-style meal at home. Whether you're a fan of Italian-inspired dishes or simply love a good sandwich, this panini will quickly become a favorite!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 slices ciabatta bread
- 4 tablespoons pesto sauce
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup arugula
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Grill the chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice the chicken into thin strips.
Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto sauce on each slice of ciabatta bread.
Layer one slice of bread (pesto side up) with mozzarella cheese, grilled chicken slices, a handful of arugula, and another slice of mozzarella. Top with another slice of bread, pesto side down.
Spread a thin layer of butter on the outside of both slices of bread.
Heat a panini press or a skillet over medium heat. If using a skillet, place the sandwich in the pan and press with a heavy object (like another skillet) to achieve a pressed effect.
Cook the panini for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Remove from heat, slice in half, and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2387 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 132.5 g | 170% | |
| Saturated Fat | 40.3 g | 201% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 10.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 445 mg | 148% | |
| Sodium | 5466 mg | 238% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 134.5 g | 49% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.6 g | 34% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.1 g | ||
| Protein | 164.9 g | 330% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.1 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 1006 mg | 77% | |
| Iron | 14.1 mg | 78% | |
| Potassium | 1243 mg | 26% | |
*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.
