Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich

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When it comes to comfort food with a gourmet twist, the Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich is a shining star. Perfectly grilled chicken breast, layered with melty cheese, roasted red peppers, and a handful of fresh spinach leaves, all tucked between crispy golden bread—this sandwich turns any meal into a flavorful feast. It’s hearty, cheesy, juicy, and just the right amount of toasty.

What makes this sandwich stand out is its combination of textures and flavors. You get the smokiness from the grill marks, the tang of sun-dried tomatoes or roasted peppers, and the satisfying bite of crusty artisan bread. It’s perfect for lunch, a cozy dinner, or slicing up as finger food for a crowd. Whether you’re making use of leftover chicken or starting from scratch, this recipe delivers bold taste with simple prep.

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Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich

• Quick and satisfying: Ideal for busy days or easy dinners.
• Flavor-packed layers: Chicken, cheese, veggies, and pesto blend into savory harmony.
• Customizable: Swap cheeses or add extras like bacon, caramelized onions, or jalapeños.
• Perfect texture: Crispy exterior with a melty, juicy interior.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get your Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich just right, having the right tools is essential:

• Panini Press or Grill Pan: This creates those beautiful grill marks and evenly melts the cheese. A heavy skillet with another pan pressed on top can be a DIY alternative.
• Sharp Knife: For cleanly slicing the sandwich in half and prepping your ingredients.
• Cutting Board: Ideal for assembling your sandwich layers neatly and safely.
• Tongs or Spatula: To press and flip your sandwich without squishing the filling out.

Each tool plays a key role in ensuring your panini is perfectly crisped, safely handled, and photogenic on the plate.

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Ingredients for the Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich

• Grilled Chicken Breast: The protein hero of the sandwich, juicy and flavorful.
• Fresh Spinach: Adds freshness and color, plus a nutrient boost.
• Roasted Red Peppers: Provide sweetness and depth that balances the savory chicken.
• Mozzarella or Provolone Cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistible cheesy pull.
• Pesto Sauce: Gives a burst of herbaceous flavor that ties everything together.
• Ciabatta or Sourdough Bread: Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, it holds up well when grilled.
• Butter or Olive Oil: For brushing the bread to create that golden, crispy exterior.

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How To Make the Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Slice your grilled chicken into strips, drain roasted red peppers, and wash your spinach. Lay out all components for easy assembly.

Step 2: Build the Sandwich

On one slice of bread, spread a thin layer of pesto. Layer with chicken, roasted peppers, spinach, and cheese. Top with the second slice of bread. Lightly brush the outsides with olive oil or butter.

Step 3: Grill the Panini

Place the sandwich in a heated panini press or grill pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Step 4: Slice & Serve

Use a sharp knife to cut the panini diagonally. Serve hot for best taste and melty goodness.

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Serving and Storing Your Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich

Serve your Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich immediately while it’s warm and melty. Pair it with a light salad, tomato soup, or even sweet potato fries for a complete meal.

For storing, wrap leftovers in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or a toaster oven to bring back the crisp texture—avoid microwaving, which can make the bread soggy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this panini vegetarian?

Swap the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu for a hearty vegetarian version.

What’s the best bread for paninis?

Ciabatta, sourdough, or focaccia are great choices. They hold their shape and get beautifully crisp when grilled.

Can I use store-bought grilled chicken?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked grilled chicken makes this recipe even quicker without sacrificing flavor.

Is pesto necessary?

Not required, but it adds a delicious herby note. You can also use a sun-dried tomato spread or aioli as a substitute.

Can I freeze a cooked panini?

You can freeze it, but for best results, wrap tightly and reheat in an oven or toaster oven to restore crispness.

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Want More Sandwich Ideas?

If you love this Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich, you’ll definitely want to check out these delicious creations:

• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for bold flavor and melted cheese bliss.
• Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce for a comforting twist.
• Tzatziki Chicken Veggie Naan Pizza for something light and Mediterranean-inspired.
• Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for a cozy one-dish meal.
• Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti for that family-style comfort vibe.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest sandwich or lunch board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use pesto or go with another sauce? Try it with spicy chicken or even avocado?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other make the ultimate panini experience.

More daily inspiration on my Pinterest – Kitchen By Kate

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