Description
Hearty chicken caprese focaccia panini celebrates Italian culinary traditions with fresh mozzarella and basil. Crisp bread and melted cheese create a satisfying sandwich perfect for lunch or casual dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 large pieces focaccia bread
- 4 (4 oz/113 g) slices mozzarella
- 1 large tomatoes, sliced
- 6 basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons pesto
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Slice each focaccia bread horizontally, creating two halves for sandwich assembly.
- Heat indoor grill to medium-high temperature. Cut chicken breasts into thinner horizontal slices for even cooking.
- Grill chicken approximately 4-5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and meat appears fully cooked with clear juices.
- Layer first focaccia half with a generous spread of pesto, covering entire surface.
- Arrange grilled chicken slice atop pesto, ensuring complete coverage of bread.
- Place fresh mozzarella slices over chicken, allowing slight overlap for even melting.
- Distribute fresh tomato slices across mozzarella, creating colorful and vibrant layer.
- Carefully position three whole basil leaves over tomato slices for aromatic garnish.
- Spread additional pesto on second focaccia half before closing sandwich.
- Transfer assembled sandwich to preheated panini press or indoor grill.
- Cook at medium heat for 3-4 minutes until bread turns golden brown and cheese melts completely.
- Remove immediately, slice diagonally, and serve while warm and crispy.
Notes
- Slice chicken breasts evenly to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry spots during grilling.
- Marinate chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before grilling to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Use fresh, high-quality mozzarella for a creamy texture and richer taste in the panini.
- For gluten-free option, replace focaccia with gluten-free bread or large portobello mushroom caps as a low-carb alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg