Italian Chicken Panini

The Italian Chicken Panini is a deliciously warm and melty sandwich packed with bold Italian flavors. Juicy grilled chicken, savory pesto, roasted red peppers, and gooey mozzarella come together between slices of crusty bread and are pressed to golden perfection. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or anytime you crave something hearty yet easy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and satisfying – ready in about 15 minutes.
• Restaurant-quality flavor made with simple ingredients.
• Customizable with different cheeses or vegetables.
• Perfect for using up leftover chicken.
• Kid- and adult-approved for its cheesy, savory goodness.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked chicken breast (grilled or rotisserie), sliced thin
• Italian or ciabatta bread
• Pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• Roasted red peppers, sliced
• Fresh or shredded mozzarella cheese
• Sliced tomato (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)
• Olive oil or butter for grilling

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat a panini press or skillet over medium heat.
2. Spread pesto on the inside of each bread slice.
3. Layer one slice with chicken, roasted red peppers, mozzarella, and optional basil or tomato.
4. Top with the other bread slice to form a sandwich.
5. Brush the outside of the sandwich with olive oil or butter.
6. Place the sandwich on the panini press or skillet. If using a skillet, press down with a heavy pan.
7. Grill for 3–5 minutes until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Slice and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 sandwiches
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5–7 minutes
• Total Time: 10–15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of pepperoncini or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Cheese Swap: Try provolone, fontina, or gouda in place of mozzarella.
• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and load it up with grilled zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms.
• Extra Savory: Add a thin slice of prosciutto or salami for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover panini wrapped in foil or in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to retain the crisp texture.
• Freezing: Not recommended as the texture of the bread and ingredients may suffer.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, it’s a great shortcut. Just slice or shred it before layering.

What kind of bread is best for panini?

Ciabatta, sourdough, or Italian bread works well—they’re sturdy and crisp nicely when grilled.

Can I make it without a panini press?

Absolutely. Use a skillet and press down with another pan to get a crispy, flattened sandwich.

How do I keep the panini from getting soggy?

Make sure roasted red peppers are well-drained and pat dry any wet ingredients before assembling.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can assemble the sandwich ahead and grill it right before serving for best texture.

Is this panini freezer-friendly?

It’s not ideal to freeze due to the cheese and bread texture changes when thawed.

Can I use a different sauce besides pesto?

Yes, sun-dried tomato spread, marinara, or even a garlic aioli are great alternatives.

What sides go well with this panini?

Serve with a green salad, tomato soup, or roasted vegetables for a full meal.

Can I use shredded chicken?

Yes, shredded chicken works just as well and makes for easy layering.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use your favorite gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

The Italian Chicken Panini is a flavorful, satisfying sandwich that brings the essence of Italy to your table in just minutes. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, its crispy exterior and melty, savory filling make it a go-to favorite that never disappoints.

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