Chicken Pesto Sandwich

difficulty
Beginner
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Servings

2 servings

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Prep time

5 min

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Cooking time

10 min

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Calories

440 kcal

This Chicken Pesto Sandwich is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. With juicy chicken, melted mozzarella, fresh tomato, and rich pesto, every bite is packed with delicious Italian-inspired flavors.

It’s simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in minutes, making it ideal for busy days when you still want something homemade and tasty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Pesto Sandwich is quick to make and ready in under 15 minutes. It’s packed with flavor from the pesto and melted cheese, while still being simple and satisfying. It’s perfect for a fast lunch, easy dinner, or even a weekend treat.


Ingredients

  • 2 ciabatta rolls or sandwich bread
  • 1 cooked chicken breast (sliced)
  • 2 tablespoons pesto
  • 60 g mozzarella (sliced)
  • 1 tomato (sliced)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Arugula (optional)
  • Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice the bread rolls in half.
  2. Spread pesto on both sides.
  3. Add chicken, mozzarella, and tomato.
  4. Add arugula if using.
  5. Drizzle with olive oil.
  6. Toast in a pan or sandwich press for 4–5 minutes.
  7. Serve warm.

Nutrition per serving

  • Protein: ~32 g
  • Fat: ~20 g
  • Carbohydrates : ~ 34 g
  • Fiber: ~3 g

Make Ahead & Meal Prep

This Chicken Pesto Sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Slice the chicken, tomato, and cheese in advance and store them in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply assemble and toast the sandwich for a quick and fresh meal.

Tips

  • Use fresh mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
  • Toast the bread until golden and crispy for the perfect texture.
  • Don’t add too much tomato to avoid a soggy sandwich.
  • Warm the chicken slightly before assembling for better flavor.
  • Use a good-quality pesto for the richest taste.

Variations

  • Grilled Version Grill the sandwich for extra crunch and smoky flavor.
  • Spicy Version Add chili flakes or spicy pesto.
  • Low-Carb Option Use lettuce wraps instead of bread.
  • Extra Cheesy Add extra mozzarella or parmesan.
  • Vegetarian Option Replace chicken with grilled vegetables.

FAQ

Yes, leftover or rotisserie chicken works perfectly and makes this sandwich even quicker to prepare.

You can prepare the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to assemble and toast the sandwich just before eating.

Ciabatta works great, but any sturdy sandwich bread will do.

Yes, use whole grain bread, less cheese, or add more vegetables.

Yes, but it tastes best warm when the cheese is melted.

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Recipe by vino

I love this Chicken Pesto Sandwich because it’s so simple but incredibly flavorful. It’s one of those meals you can make in minutes, yet it still feels like something special. The combination of warm, crispy bread with melted cheese and pesto always hits the spot.

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