Name: Italian Chicken Panini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced; 4 ciabatta rolls; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced; 2 tbsp balsamic glaze; 2 tbsp olive oil

Print Recipe

When you think of comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a warm, melty Italian Chicken Panini. Picture this: crispy bread hugging tender chicken, gooey cheese, and fresh veggies all drizzled with zesty sauce. creamy chicken variations It’s practically a hug on a plate, perfect for lunch breaks or dinner after a long day. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising an explosion of flavors that will dance on your taste buds.

I remember the first time I made this panini; my friends couldn’t get enough of it! We were gathered for a game night, and I whipped these up as a surprise. The laughter and chatter paused as they took their first bites, followed by delighted “Mmm!” sounds. It was a hit! Now, it’s the go-to dish for any casual gathering, perfect for those moments when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Italian Chicken Panini is straightforward to prepare, making meal times easy and enjoyable
The blend of savory chicken and fresh ingredients creates an irresistible flavor sensation
Its golden-brown crust gives an appealing visual pop to your table
You can customize this recipe according to your tastes or what you have in the fridge

My friends still rave about that panini night; they keep asking when the next one will be.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for 3-4 breasts depending on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Go for the good stuff—fresh mozzarella adds creaminess that melts beautifully.
Ciabatta Bread: This bread’s crusty exterior and soft interior create the perfect panini experience.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Use vibrant basil to bring a burst of freshness to every bite.
Roasted Red Peppers: They add sweetness and depth; jarred ones are fine if you’re short on time.
Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle adds tangy sweetness—essential for balancing flavors.
Olive Oil: A light brush of olive oil helps achieve that golden-brown crunch we all crave.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. cheesy sandwich recipe. For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe recipe.

Let’s Make it Together

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into creating this delicious Italian Chicken Panini together!

Prepare Your Chicken: Start by preheating your grill or panini press to medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper for flavor enhancement.

Cook the Chicken: Grill the seasoned chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Let them rest before slicing to retain juiciness.

Slice Your Ingredients: While the chicken rests, slice your mozzarella cheese and roasted red peppers. Fresh basil leaves should also be rinsed and patted dry.

Assemble Your Panini: Take one piece of ciabatta bread and layer on sliced chicken, mozzarella cheese, roasted peppers, and basil leaves. Drizzle some balsamic glaze on top before capping it with another slice of bread.

Grill Your Creation: Brush both sides lightly with olive oil before placing it in the heated grill or press. Cook until golden brown and crispy—about 4-5 minutes should do it!

Serve and Enjoy!: Once done, slice your panini in half while it’s still warm—the gooey cheese will stretch delightfully! Serve with extra balsamic glaze on the side for dipping.

And there you have it—the ultimate Italian Chicken Panini ready to steal the show at any meal! Enjoy every mouthwatering bite while basking in compliments from family and friends alike! easy chicken meal prep.

You Must Know

This Italian Chicken Panini is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience
The crispy bread combined with savory chicken and fresh basil creates an aromatic delight that fills your kitchen
Perfect for lunch or a quick dinner, it’s sure to impress friends and family

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first for beautiful browning, then assemble your panini while the chicken rests. Toast the bread on medium heat until golden for that perfect crunch.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add roasted peppers for extra flavor. A sprinkle of chili flakes can also spice things up, making each bite exciting.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to keep the bread crispy and chicken juicy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve that perfect crunch in your Italian Chicken Panini, use fresh bread from a bakery
Consider marinating your chicken overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness
Always let the panini rest briefly before slicing; this helps retain juices and keeps everything intact

Sharing my first attempt at making an Italian Chicken Panini brings a smile. Friends raved about it, and I even had requests for seconds! It felt great to impress everyone with my cooking skills.

FAQs

FAQ

What type of bread is best for an Italian Chicken Panini?

fun pizza-inspired dish.

The best bread choices for an Italian Chicken Panini include ciabatta or focaccia. These breads have great texture and hold up well during grilling, ensuring your panini stays sturdy and delicious.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole Recipe recipe.

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken makes an excellent filling for your panini. Just shred it, mix with some pesto or sauce, then layer it between the bread with cheese and veggies.

How do I prevent my panini from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, ensure your ingredients are dry before assembling. Use less sauce or moisture-rich ingredients like tomatoes, and always toast your bread thoroughly before adding fillings.