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Italian Chicken Panini Recipe

Italian Chicken Panini Recipe
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A quick and delicious Italian Chicken Panini that combines tender grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil, pressed between perfectly toasted ciabatta or focaccia bread. This crispy, melty sandwich is easy to make at home and perfect for lunch, dinner, or a satisfying snack that brings authentic Italian flavors to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 grilled chicken breasts, seasoned with salt and pepper
  • 4 slices ciabatta or focaccia bread
  • 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes
  • Fresh basil leaves (about 8 leaves)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing bread)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1–2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill or cook on a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly for even sandwich layering.
  2. Assemble the Panini: Slice the ciabatta or focaccia bread horizontally. Brush the outer sides with olive oil. Layer inside with sliced chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and slices of mozzarella. Drizzle balsamic glaze over fillings if desired, then close the sandwich.
  3. Toast and Press: Preheat panini press or grill pan over medium heat. Place sandwich inside and press firmly for 4-5 minutes, flipping once if needed, until bread is crispy and golden and cheese is melted thoroughly.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the panini carefully, let rest for a minute, then slice into halves or quarters. Serve warm to savor the gooey, melty texture and crispy crust.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread for better crispiness and to prevent sogginess.
  • Thinly slice chicken to allow flavors to meld and sandwich to compress evenly.
  • Brush olive oil on the bread’s exterior to achieve a golden crust and deeper flavor.
  • Preheat your panini press or grill pan to ensure even cooking and optimal crunch.
  • Let the panini rest briefly after cooking to help it hold together and avoid burns.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian Chicken Panini, Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Easy Panini Recipe, Quick Italian Meal, Melty Cheese Sandwich

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/italian-chicken-panini-recipe/