The Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pesto Recipe is a delicious, vibrant meal that beautifully combines juicy, flavorful grilled chicken with the fresh, aromatic punch of basil pesto. This sandwich is a perfect balance of textures and tastes: tender chicken crowned with melted cheese, bright tomato slices, and peppery greens all tucked inside a toasted bun. It’s the kind of dish that’s simple yet impressive enough to become a fast favorite for lunch or dinner. If you’re craving something hearty, colorful, and packed with satisfying flavors, this grilled chicken sandwich with pesto recipe is the one to make and share with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to turning this grilled chicken sandwich with pesto recipe from a simple idea into a mouthwatering reality. Each component is chosen to boost the flavor, texture, and visual appeal of the dish, making your sandwich more than just a meal — it’s an experience.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base of the sandwich, perfect for grilling to juicy perfection.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps keep the chicken tender and adds subtle richness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential to season and bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth.
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder: Introduces a warm, aromatic element that complements the pesto.
- 4 sandwich rolls or ciabatta buns sliced: A sturdy, crusty bread that holds all fillings beautifully without becoming soggy.
- 0.5 cup basil pesto: The star of the sandwich, lending herbaceous brightness and creamy texture.
- 4 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly over the hot grilled chicken for a luscious finish.
- 1 large tomato sliced: Adds juicy freshness and a burst of color.
- 1 cup fresh arugula or baby spinach: Offers a peppery crunch and vibrant green color.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional for toasting buns): Creates a golden, crispy crust on the sandwich rolls.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pesto Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to get that perfect char and smoky flavor. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season them evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning enhances the natural taste of the chicken while complementing the pesto later on.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Aim for a nice golden sear on the outside while ensuring they cook through to 165°F internally for safety and juiciness. When the chicken is almost done, add a slice of your chosen cheese on top so it melts beautifully and adds a creamy layer to every bite.
Step 3: Toast the Sandwich Rolls
While the chicken is resting (which helps the juices settle), butter the cut sides of your sandwich rolls if you like an extra-rich flavor and toast them on the grill. This step gives the buns a wonderful crunch that contrasts with the tender fillings inside.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
Spread a generous layer of basil pesto on the bottom halves of the toasted rolls. Layer on the grilled chicken breasts with melted cheese, followed by fresh tomato slices and a handful of arugula or baby spinach. Top with the other half of the bun, press gently, and serve immediately to enjoy every flavor at its freshest.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pesto Recipe
Garnishes
For an added touch of elegance and flavor, consider sprinkling extra fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the sandwich before serving. These little garnishes can elevate your grilled chicken sandwich with pesto recipe from simple to gourmet in a heartbeat.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with classic sides like a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or some golden roasted potatoes for a comforting, complete meal. Fresh-cut veggies or lightly salted chips also make great accompaniments to balance out the richness of the sandwich.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your grilled chicken sandwich cut diagonally to show off the colorful layers inside, maybe secured with a pretty toothpick or skewer. You could also wrap it in parchment paper for a rustic, picnic-friendly look that’s perfect for casual gatherings or lunch on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover grilled chicken sandwich with pesto recipe components, store the chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers to keep everything fresh. The bread is best kept aside until serving to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
While sandwiches are best fresh, you can freeze cooked chicken breasts (without the buns or fresh veggies) and thaw them for easy assembly later. This makes weeknight meal prep a breeze when you want that pesto-packed flavor in minutes.
Reheating
Reheat the grilled chicken gently in a skillet or oven to avoid drying it out, and toast the buns again before assembling. Add fresh toppings after reheating to maintain their crispness and freshness.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works wonderfully when you’re short on time and still want that burst of basil flavor in your grilled chicken sandwich with pesto recipe.
What type of cheese is best for melting on the chicken?
Provolone or mozzarella are great choices because they melt evenly and nicely complement the herbs in the pesto without overpowering the sandwich.
Can I grill the sandwich assembled?
Grilling the sandwich assembled is possible but can make the bread soggy. It’s best to grill the chicken and toast the buns separately, then assemble for optimal texture.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this sandwich?
Yes, you can substitute grilled chicken with thick slices of grilled portobello mushrooms or eggplant for a similarly hearty sandwich with pesto.
How can I make this sandwich spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto or include sliced jalapeños or pepperoncini when assembling for a kick of heat that pairs nicely with the creamy pesto.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pesto Recipe truly shines as a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing with family or friends. It combines fresh, bright ingredients with simple techniques to create a richly textured sandwich that will quickly become a new favorite. Don’t hesitate to try it out — your taste buds will thank you!
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Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Pesto Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: High-Protein
Description
A delicious and easy grilled chicken sandwich featuring juicy chicken breasts seasoned and cooked to perfection, topped with melted cheese, fresh tomato, and peppery arugula, all layered with vibrant basil pesto on toasted ciabatta buns. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner with a fresh, herbaceous twist.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
Sandwich Components
- 4 sandwich rolls or ciabatta buns, sliced
- 0.5 cup basil pesto
- 4 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1 cup fresh arugula or baby spinach
Optional
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting buns)
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to ensure it’s hot and ready for cooking the chicken evenly.
- Prepare the Chicken: Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season them evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder for balanced flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Melt the Cheese: During the last minute of cooking, add a slice of provolone or mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast and allow it to melt.
- Toast the Buns: While the chicken rests, lightly butter the cut sides of the sandwich rolls if desired, and toast them on the grill until golden brown for added texture and flavor.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a generous amount of basil pesto on the bottom halves of the buns. Layer the grilled chicken with melted cheese on top, followed by sliced tomato and fresh arugula or baby spinach.
- Serve: Close the sandwiches with the top halves of the buns and serve warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding roasted red peppers or avocado slices to the sandwich.
- This sandwich pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
