Mozzarella Pesto Chicken Grilled Cheese

Experience the ultimate fusion of comfort and gourmet flavor with this Mozzarella Pesto Chicken Grilled Cheese. This mouthwatering sandwich brings together juicy shredded chicken, vibrant basil pesto, and gooey, melted mozzarella cheese, all pressed between crispy slices of golden sourdough for a truly satisfying and savory meal.

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Whether you're looking for a quick weekday lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe delivers impressive results with minimal effort. The combination of sourdough bread and Italian-inspired ingredients creates a sophisticated profile that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 4 slices sourdough or Italian bread
• 4 oz (115 g) fresh mozzarella, sliced or shredded
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (140 g) cooked, shredded chicken breast
• 3 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 small tomato, thinly sliced (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Lay out the bread slices. Spread 1–1.5 tbsp pesto onto two of the slices.

Step 2

Evenly distribute the shredded chicken on top of the pesto-covered slices.

Step 3

Layer mozzarella cheese over the chicken. Add tomato slices and fresh basil if using. Sprinkle with Parmesan for extra flavor, if desired.

Step 4

Top with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.

Step 5

Spread the softened butter on the outsides of each sandwich (both top and bottom).

Step 6

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet, pressing them slightly with a spatula. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Step 7

Remove from the skillet, let rest for 1 minute, then cut in half and serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For maximum convenience, use rotisserie chicken which works perfectly for this recipe. Ensure your butter is properly softened before spreading to achieve an even, golden crust without tearing the bread slices. Cooking over medium heat is essential to ensure the cheese melts fully before the bread becomes too dark.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can experiment with different bread types like ciabatta or multigrain to change the texture. For a vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken for grilled vegetables such as zucchini or roasted peppers. If you enjoy a bit of spice, try adding a few red pepper flakes to the pesto spread.

Serviervorschläge

This savory sandwich pairs beautifully with a crisp Italian white wine or a refreshing sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon. It also goes wonderfully alongside a simple side salad or a bowl of tomato basil soup for a more substantial meal.

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This Mozzarella Pesto Chicken Grilled Cheese is a simple yet elegant way to upgrade your sandwich game. Each serving contains approximately 520 calories, 36g of protein, and 32g of carbohydrates, making it a balanced and hearty choice for any occasion.

Questions & Answers

→ Can I prepare these sandwiches ahead of time?

You can assemble the sandwiches a few hours in advance and refrigerate them, but cook just before serving for the best texture. Cold sandwiches won't have the crispy, golden exterior and melted cheese that makes them special.

→ What type of bread works best?

Sourdough and Italian bread are ideal for their sturdy structure and mild flavor. Ciabatta, focaccia, or multigrain bread also work well. Avoid very soft bread that may fall apart during cooking.

→ How do I prevent the bread from burning while the cheese melts?

Cook over medium heat rather than high heat, and cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute or two to trap steam and help the cheese melt faster without over-browning the bread.

→ Can I use fresh basil instead of pesto?

Yes, you can layer fresh basil leaves directly in the sandwich. For more flavor, make a quick pesto by blending fresh basil with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan, or use store-bought for convenience.

→ What are good side pairings for this sandwich?

Serve alongside tomato soup, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables. A sparkling Italian white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade complements the flavors beautifully.

→ How do I make this vegetarian?

Simply replace the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, roasted peppers, or sautéed mushrooms. The pesto and mozzarella provide plenty of savory depth on their own.