The MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a delicious twist on a classic favorite. This sandwich combines tender chicken with zesty basil pesto and gooey mozzarella for an unforgettable taste experience. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s a meal that appeals to everyone!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it perfect for busy days.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of juicy chicken, fresh basil pesto, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a delightful flavor profile.
- Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a hearty lunch or a light dinner; it fits any occasion.
- Cheesy Goodness: The melted mozzarella adds the perfect creaminess that elevates the entire dish.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or switch up the protein for variety.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Non-stick skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Knife
Why These Tools Matter
- Non-stick skillet: Ensures easy flipping and prevents sticking, making cleanup easier.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients without mess.
- Spatula: Essential for flipping sandwiches without losing any delicious fillings.
- Knife: A sharp knife allows for clean cuts when slicing your sandwich.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pesto makes the ULTIMATE grilled cheese sandwich combo. Juicy chicken wrapped in a homemade basil pesto, paired with sun dried tomatoes and stringy mozzarella – the perfect lunch ready and waiting!
For the Sandwich
- 4 large thick slices of Bread
- 1.5 cups / 150g / 5oz Shredded Cooked Chicken
- 1/3 cup – 1/2 cup (80-120g) Basil Pesto
- 5oz / 150g ball of Fresh Mozzarella, thinly sliced and patted dry to remove moisture
- 8 Sun Dried Tomatoes, patted dry to remove excess oil
- Butter, as needed
How to Make MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a medium-sized mixing bowl combine the shredded cooked chicken with the basil pesto. Mix well until all the chicken is coated in pesto. Set aside.
Step 2: Butter the Bread
Place two slices of bread in a non-stick skillet with the heat OFF. Generously spread butter on one side of each slice. Flip them over so both are buttered on the bottom.
Step 3: Layer Ingredients
Add half of the sliced mozzarella evenly over one slice of bread in the skillet. Top with the chicken pesto mixture followed by sun-dried tomatoes. Finally, add the remaining mozzarella on top before placing another slice of bread on top. Spread butter on this slice too.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden
Turn on the heat to low-medium. Fry each side until golden brown and crispy while ensuring that the mozzarella is melted throughout. Carefully flip using your spatula for even cooking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once both sides are perfectly toasted and cheesy goodness awaits inside, slice your sandwich in half and serve warm! Enjoy your MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich!
How to Serve MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Serving the MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich is all about enhancing its rich flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your meal experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette complements the sandwich’s richness.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a classic Italian touch that pairs beautifully.
Add a Crunchy Side
- Potato Chips: A handful of crispy potato chips adds crunch and enhances the overall texture contrast.
- Pickles: Tangy pickles provide a refreshing bite that balances the savory flavors of the sandwich.
Serve with Dipping Sauces
- Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle or dip in balsamic reduction for a sweet and tangy flavor boost.
- Garlic Aioli: Creamy garlic aioli offers an extra layer of flavor that’s hard to resist.
How to Perfect MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Perfecting your MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich involves attention to detail and a few key tips. Follow these suggestions for an even tastier result.
- Use Quality Bread: Choose thick, crusty bread that can hold up to the fillings without becoming soggy.
- Pat Dry Ingredients: Make sure to pat dry the mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes to prevent excess moisture from making the sandwich soggy.
- Low Heat Cooking: Cooking on low heat allows the cheese to melt perfectly without burning the bread.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Mix different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for added flavor complexity.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh basil or arugula inside for an extra burst of freshness.
Best Side Dishes for MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich
The right side dishes can enhance your MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich experience. Here are some tasty options to consider.
- Tomato Soup: A classic pairing that brings warmth and comfort; perfect for dipping your sandwich.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, they add a satisfying sweet contrast.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess, balancing the richness of the sandwich.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy side packed with flavor.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers sweetness that pairs nicely with savory dishes.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds elegance and nutrition to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich, staying mindful of common mistakes can elevate your dish.
- Skipping the drying process: Failing to pat dry the mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes can lead to a soggy sandwich. Always remove excess moisture for the best texture.
- Not using enough butter: Insufficient butter on the bread can result in uneven browning. Generously spread butter on both sides for a golden, crispy crust.
- Overfilling the sandwich: Adding too much chicken or cheese may cause spillage during cooking. Aim for a balanced filling to keep everything neatly inside.
- Cooking at high heat: Using high heat can burn the bread before the cheese melts. Cook on low-medium heat for even cooking and deliciously melted cheese.
- Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season the chicken or pesto can dull flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning before assembling your sandwich for maximum flavor.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- The sandwich can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sandwiches directly on the rack or a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking often to avoid sogginess. Consider placing a paper towel underneath to absorb moisture.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low-medium heat, flipping halfway through until heated evenly and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich special?
The combination of juicy chicken, homemade basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, and sun-dried tomatoes creates an extraordinary flavor profile that elevates this classic dish.
Can I customize my MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or arugula, switch up cheeses, or even use different types of bread based on your preference.
How do I store leftovers of the MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them wrapped tightly for two months.
What are some good side dishes with my MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich?
Pair it with a refreshing salad, tomato soup, or crispy fries for a complete meal experience.
Conclusion
The MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich is not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients based on your taste preferences. Give it a try and enjoy this mouthwatering creation for brunch or lunch!
MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Indulge in the MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich, a delightful twist on a beloved classic that elevates your lunch or dinner experience. This scrumptious sandwich features juicy chicken enveloped in homemade basil pesto, layered with sun-dried tomatoes, and topped with gooey mozzarella, all between thick slices of crispy bread. It’s perfect for any occasion, offering rich flavors and comforting textures that will impress friends and family alike. Quick to prepare and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, this dish is a sure-fire winner for brunch, lunch, or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients
- 4 large thick slices of bread
- 1.5 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 5 oz fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced
- 8 sun-dried tomatoes, patted dry
- Butter as needed
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with basil pesto until well coated.
- In a non-stick skillet (heat off), butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Place half of the mozzarella on one slice in the skillet. Layer with chicken mixture, sun-dried tomatoes, and remaining mozzarella. Top with another slice of bread (buttered side up).
- Turn heat to low-medium and cook until golden brown on both sides and cheese melts.
- Slice and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
