This Easy Pesto Chicken Sandwich is a tasty delight on soft sourdough bread! Loaded with juicy chicken and fresh pesto, it brings tons of flavor in every bite.
I love making this for lunch because it’s quick and satisfying. Sometimes I even add a slice of cheese to make it extra yummy. A simple sandwich that feels gourmet! 🥪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Bread: Sourdough is great for its tangy flavor and crispy texture. If you can’t find it, feel free to use whole grain or ciabatta bread. Both give a nice crunch and pair well with the pesto.
Chicken Breast: Boneless chicken breast is easy to cook and very mild in flavor. For a quick option, rotisserie chicken works well and can save time. You can also use turkey slices or even grilled veggies if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Pesto Sauce: Homemade pesto is awesome, but store-bought is super convenient. If you’re allergic to nuts, you can make a nut-free pesto using peas or just use fresh herbs with a bit of olive oil.
Cheese: Provolone or mozzarella melts beautifully in this sandwich. If you’re looking for something with a stronger flavor, you might try aged cheddar or fontina. Vegan cheese is a good substitute if you want to keep it plant-based.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken right can make a big difference in this sandwich. Here’s a simple method to get it juicy and flavorful:
- Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. This adds base flavor.
- Heat your non-stick skillet to medium heat (make sure it’s hot!). Add a little olive oil or butter.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Keep the heat steady; you want it cooked through but not dry.
- Check for doneness by cutting into the chicken; juices should run clear and the inside should be white.
- After cooking, let it rest for a few minutes. This allows juices to redistribute and keeps it moist when you slice it.
Enjoy the process, and you’ll have a delicious chicken sandwich every time!
Easy Pesto Chicken Sandwich on Sourdough Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 slices sourdough bread
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1 slice tomato
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for toasting bread)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sandwich will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breast with a good pinch of salt and pepper on both sides. This adds wonderful flavor to your chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or butter to the pan. Place the chicken breast in the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want it to be fully cooked with juices running clear. Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for a minute.
3. Prepare the Sourdough Bread:
While the chicken is cooking, take your slices of sourdough bread and spread olive oil or butter on one side of each slice. This will make them nice and crispy!
4. Toast the Bread:
Using the same pan (or a new one), lay the bread slices in the pan, buttered side down. Toast them until they’re golden brown and crispy, which should take a few minutes.
5. Assemble the Sandwich:
Once your bread is toasted, spread pesto sauce generously on the untoasted side of each piece. On one slice, layer the cooked chicken breast, followed by the slice of tomato, and top it off with the cheese slices.
6. Complete the Sandwich:
Take the other slice of bread, placing it on top of the filling with the pesto side down, creating a beautiful sandwich.
7. Melt the Cheese (Optional):
If you want to get the cheese nice and melty, you can return the sandwich to the pan. Cook on low heat for about 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese starts to melt.
8. Serve:
Remove the sandwich from the heat. Feel free to slice it in half if you like, and serve immediately. Enjoy your flavorful, melty Easy Pesto Chicken Sandwich on crunchy sourdough!
This sandwich is not only delicious but super satisfying. Perfect for any meal of the day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Sandwich?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly here. Just slice it and layer it into the sandwich with the pesto and cheese. It’s a great way to repurpose leftovers!
What If I Don’t Have Pesto?
No worries! You can use any spread you like, such as hummus or sun-dried tomato spread. A mix of olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs can also give you a burst of flavor in the sandwich.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for up to 2 days. Just know that the bread might lose some crunch!
Can I Make This Sandwich Veggie-Friendly?
Definitely! You can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. Add extra slices of cheese or a slice of avocado for a delicious and hearty vegetarian option!
