Grilled Chicken Pesto Sandwich
User Reviews
5
Grilled Chicken Pesto Sandwich
Description
The sandwich starts with chicken breasts brushed with olive oil, seasoned simply with salt and pepper, and grilled over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Near the end, mozzarella cheese is melted on top to add creamy richness. The warm focaccia bread is spread with basil pesto, infusing the sandwich with a herby note. Fresh tomato slices and romaine lettuce provide a cool, crunchy counterpoint to the melted cheese and warm chicken.
This sandwich is ideal served warm for a handheld meal. The combination of textures—from tender chicken, melted cheese, soft bread, and fresh vegetables—makes it satisfying and balanced. It works well as a main meal or for a casual gathering.
Leftover sandwich components can be stored separately for up to 3-4 days. Reheat chicken gently in a skillet with added moisture to prevent drying out, or enjoy cold for convenience.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breast boneless skinless halves
- olive oil
- kosher salt
- black pepper freshly ground
- 6 ounces mozzarella cheese sliced
- 1 loaf focaccia bread sliced into 4 pieces, each cut in half horizontally (or your favorite type of bread
- ½ cup basil pesto or more to taste
- 1 tomato sliced, large
- romaine lettuce for serving
Instructions
- Lightly brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare grill for direct grilling over medium-high heat. Brush and oil the grill grate.
- Place the chicken on the grill directly over the fire and cook until the juices run clear and the chicken is cooked through, about 5 to 8 minutes on each side. About 2 minutes before the chicken is ready, place a slice of cheese on each breast half, cover the grill and allow the cheese to melt. (The internal temperature of the chicken should read 165 degrees F on an instant read thermometer.)
- Transfer the chicken to a plate. Spread the bread slices with pesto. Arrange one breast half on each of the 4 bread pieces. Top with tomato slices and lettuce. Serve warm.
Notes
- Leftover sandwich ingredients can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- To reheat grilled chicken without drying it out, simmer in a skillet with a bit of water or chicken broth, covered, over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4sandwiches
Amount Per Serving
Calories 640 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 0g | |
| Calories | 640kcal | 32% |
| Carbohydrates | 51g | 17% |
| Protein | 43g | 86% |
| Fat | 28g | 43% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Cholesterol | 108mg | 36% |
| Sodium | 1221mg | 51% |
| Potassium | 523mg | 11% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 1205IU | 24% |
| Vitamin C | 5.6mg | 6% |
| Calcium | 273mg | 27% |
| Iron | 0.9mg | 5% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.