Chicken Pesto Ciabatta is the perfect combination of tender, juicy chicken, vibrant pesto, and crispy ciabatta bread! This sandwich is packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures, making it the ultimate lunch or light dinner option. Whether you’re craving something fresh and herby or looking for a quick and easy meal, this chicken pesto sandwich has it all. It’s simple to make, yet it feels like a gourmet treat!
Cooking Time ⏳
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2
My Cooking Experience 👩🍳
With 4-5 years of cooking experience, I’ve found that the key to a great Chicken Pesto Ciabatta is using freshly made pesto for the most vibrant flavor. I love to grill the chicken for a crispy, golden crust while keeping it juicy on the inside. The ciabatta bread adds the perfect crunch, and the pesto pulls everything together for a truly satisfying bite!
Ingredients 🛒
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🍗
- 2 ciabatta rolls 🥖
- ½ cup pesto (store-bought or homemade) 🌿
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese (optional) 🧀
- 1 cup arugula or spinach 🌱
Instructions 🍽️
1. Prepare the Chicken 🍗
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown. If using, drizzle with balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
2. Toast the Ciabatta Rolls 🥖
While the chicken is cooking, slice the ciabatta rolls in half and toast them in a toaster or on a griddle until golden and crispy.
3. Assemble the Sandwich 🍽️
Spread pesto on both sides of the toasted ciabatta rolls. Place a layer of sliced chicken on the bottom half, followed by a few slices of fresh mozzarella cheese (if using). Add a handful of arugula or spinach for a fresh crunch.
4. Serve and Enjoy! 🥪
Top with the other half of the ciabatta roll, slice the sandwich in half, and serve immediately. Enjoy with a side of chips or a light salad for a complete meal!
Variations 🔄
- Grilled Veggies: Add grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a veggie-packed twist. 🥒
- Spicy Kick: Spread some chili flakes or hot sauce on the pesto for extra heat. 🌶️
- Vegan Version: Swap the chicken for roasted chickpeas or a grilled portobello mushroom and use vegan mozzarella. 🍄
- Cheese Lovers: Use provolone, gouda, or cheddar for different cheese variations. 🧀
Equipment You’ll Need 🔪
- Skillet or grill pan
- Knife and cutting board
- Toaster or griddle
- Spoon for spreading pesto
Why You’ll Love It ❤️
✔️ Juicy, flavorful chicken 🍗
✔️ Crisp, warm ciabatta bread 🥖
✔️ Fresh, herby pesto 🌿
✔️ Quick and easy to prepare – ready in 25 minutes! ⏳
Nutritional Information 📊
- Calories: ~450 per sandwich
- Carbs: 40g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
Storage Tips ❄️
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended for this sandwich, but you can freeze the cooked chicken and pesto separately for later use.
Conclusion 🏁
Chicken Pesto Ciabatta is the perfect savory, herby sandwich that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you enjoy it for lunch or a light dinner, this sandwich is a delicious, filling meal that’s sure to please everyone. Give it a try and elevate your sandwich game! 🍗🌿🥖✨
chicken pesto ciabatta
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown. If using, drizzle with balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
- While the chicken is cooking, slice the ciabatta rolls in half and toast them in a toaster or on a griddle until golden and crispy.
- Spread pesto on both sides of the toasted ciabatta rolls. Place a layer of sliced chicken on the bottom half, followed by a few slices of fresh mozzarella cheese (if using). Add a handful of arugula or spinach for a fresh crunch.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta roll, slice the sandwich in half, and serve immediately. Enjoy with a side of chips or a light salad for a complete meal!
Notes
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
