When it comes to quick lunches or satisfying dinners, nothing beats a homemade sandwich packed with bold flavors. Our Chicken Pesto Sandwich with Mozzarella is the ultimate handheld delight — juicy, tender chicken layered with fresh basil pesto, gooey melted mozzarella, and optional sun-dried tomatoes, all between slices of golden, toasted bread. It’s the kind of sandwich that looks simple but delivers layers of flavor with every bite. Whether you’re packing it for a picnic, serving it as a quick weeknight dinner, or impressing guests at a casual brunch, this recipe is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pesto Sandwich
- Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in just 25 minutes.
- Flavor-Packed: Savory chicken, aromatic pesto, and creamy mozzarella.
- Customizable: Swap bread types, cheese, or add roasted vegetables.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Lunch, dinner, or even a picnic.
- Kid-Friendly: Melted cheese and tender chicken appeal to all ages.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a simple breakdown of what goes into making this sandwich unforgettable:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ciabatta or sourdough bread (or any bread of your choice)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) prepared pesto
- 4 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp softened butter
Pro Tip: For a slightly smoky flavor, try grilling the chicken outdoors. You can also experiment with different types of cheese like provolone, gouda, or Swiss for a unique twist.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Grill pan or skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Knife
- Baking sheet (optional, if finishing in the oven)
Having the right tools makes this recipe simple and stress-free. A sturdy skillet or grill pan is perfect for achieving that crispy, golden bread and perfectly melted cheese.
Step-by-Step Directions
Follow these easy steps for a perfectly balanced Chicken Pesto Sandwich:
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the pan and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
Tip: Resting the chicken ensures it stays juicy and tender.
2. Toast the Bread
- Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
- In the same skillet or a clean one, toast the buttered side until golden brown.
Tip: Toasting the bread first creates a barrier, preventing soggy sandwiches once you add pesto and cheese.
3. Assemble the Sandwich
- Spread pesto on the unbuttered side of each bread slice.
- Layer the sliced chicken evenly over two slices of bread.
- Add mozzarella slices and sun-dried tomatoes (optional).
- Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side out.
4. Melt the Cheese & Finish
- Return the sandwiches to the skillet.
- Cook over medium-low heat, pressing gently with a spatula, until the cheese melts and the bread is crispy, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Slice in half and serve warm.
Pro Tip: Cover the skillet with a lid for 1–2 minutes to help the cheese melt faster.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 37 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fat: 23 g
Note: This recipe serves 2 sandwiches. Nutrition varies slightly depending on bread and cheese type.
Expert Tips for Perfect Sandwiches
- Customize Your Bread: Ciabatta, baguette, or whole wheat each give a different texture.
- Add Spice: A drizzle of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick.
- Cheese Matters: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, but try smoked mozzarella for extra flavor.
- Layer Wisely: Place cheese closest to the chicken to prevent sliding and enhance meltiness.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with grilled zucchini, roasted red peppers, or eggplant.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken, pesto, and cheese over a bed of fresh greens.
- Cheese Alternatives: Swap mozzarella for provolone, gouda, or Swiss.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare chicken and pesto in advance, then assemble and toast when ready to eat.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! High-quality store-bought pesto works wonderfully. For a fresher taste, try homemade basil pesto.
Can I substitute the chicken?
Yes! Turkey breast, grilled shrimp, or roasted vegetables make excellent alternatives.
How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Pat mozzarella slices dry and toast the bread before assembling.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Yes. Store unassembled ingredients in the fridge and toast just before serving.
What side dishes pair well?
Consider a crisp side salad, roasted vegetables, or homemade potato chips for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of mixed greens for a balanced lunch.
- Pair with tomato soup for a classic comfort meal.
- Pack for a picnic or lunchbox, keeping ingredients separate until ready to toast.
Storing & Reheating
- To Store: Wrap sandwiches in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- To Reheat: Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.
Why This Sandwich Works So Well
The success of this Chicken Pesto Sandwich lies in balance:
- Texture: Crispy bread vs. tender chicken and gooey cheese.
- Flavor: Savory chicken, aromatic basil, slightly tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
- Simplicity: Few ingredients but maximum flavor impact.
This combination ensures every bite is satisfying and crave-worthy.
Pro Tips for Food Bloggers & Pinterest Sharing
- Photograph the sandwich with a melty cheese pull — highly shareable.
- Create a short vertical video showing assembly and toasting steps.
- Use bright, natural light and props like fresh basil leaves or colorful napkins.
- Include step-by-step captions and ingredients in each frame for Pinterest engagement.
Why You Should Make This at Home
Making this sandwich at home allows you to:
- Control quality of ingredients.
- Customize flavors exactly to your liking.
- Avoid preservatives and additives found in store-bought options.
Plus, it’s fun to experiment with breads, cheeses, and toppings — every sandwich can be a little different and exciting.
Fun Variations to Try Next
- Caprese Style: Add tomato slices and fresh basil for a Caprese twist.
- Spicy Pesto Chicken: Mix pesto with red pepper flakes or chipotle sauce.
- Cheesy Overload: Add extra mozzarella or a mix of mozzarella and provolone for indulgence.
- Panini Press Finish: Use a panini press for perfectly pressed and crispy sandwiches.
Final Thoughts
The Chicken Pesto Sandwich with Mozzarella is a simple yet flavorful recipe that appeals to all ages. With tender grilled chicken, fresh basil pesto, melted mozzarella, and optional sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a handheld feast ready in under 30 minutes. The recipe is versatile, allowing for vegetarian, low-carb, and cheese variations, making it suitable for almost any dietary preference.
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