Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich

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A grilled chicken panini sandwich is everything a quick, hearty lunch should be: melty cheese, juicy chicken, toasted bread, and plenty of flavor in every bite. Whether you make it on a panini press or right on the stovetop with a skillet, this sandwich hits all the comfort food notes without feeling overly heavy.

The contrast of crisped bread against gooey melted cheese and savory grilled chicken is pure satisfaction. You can dress it up with extras like pesto, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes, but even the basic version is crowd-pleasing and endlessly versatile.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich

This sandwich brings the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The grilled chicken is tender and well-seasoned, while the cheese melts just enough to create that perfect stretch with every bite. It’s great for using up leftover chicken or adding variety to your weekly lunch or dinner rotation. You can also easily prep and assemble the components ahead of time, making this an ideal grab-and-toast meal.

What Kind of Bread Should I Use?

Ciabatta and focaccia are top choices for paninis because they hold their shape well and crisp up beautifully. You can also use sourdough, rustic country loaves, or even a baguette sliced lengthwise. Look for a bread that’s not too soft and has some structure, so it won’t collapse under the weight of the fillings or turn soggy when grilled.

Ingredients for the Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich

A good grilled chicken panini comes together with just a few flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating that warm, melty, satisfying bite you crave.

• Grilled Chicken Breast: This is the star of the sandwich. You can use freshly grilled or leftover chicken, just make sure it’s well-seasoned and sliced thin for easy layering.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture. You can swap it for provolone or fontina for a different twist.
• Ciabatta or Focaccia Bread: Holds up well on the grill and gives you that crispy outside with a soft inside.
• Pesto Sauce: Adds a rich, herby flavor that pairs well with chicken and cheese.
• Tomato Slices: Brings a fresh contrast and some acidity to balance the richness.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For brushing on the outside of the bread to help it crisp and brown beautifully.

How To Make the Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by preheating your panini press or grill pan. Slice your cooked chicken into thin pieces, slice the tomatoes, and have the cheese and pesto ready to go.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich

Spread a thin layer of pesto on the inside of each bread slice. Layer the chicken slices, tomato, and cheese on one slice, then top with the second slice of bread.

Step 3: Grill the Panini

Brush the outsides of the sandwich with olive oil or melted butter. Place it on the panini press or grill pan, and press down gently. Grill for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.

Step 4: Serve Hot

Let the sandwich rest for a minute before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly and prevents everything from sliding out when you cut it.

Serving and Storing Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich

This grilled chicken panini serves 2 to 4 people, depending on appetite and side dishes. It’s best served hot right off the grill while the cheese is melty and the bread is crisp.

If you have leftovers, let them cool, then wrap in foil and refrigerate. To reheat, use a toaster oven or skillet to bring back the crisp texture. Microwaving will warm it but can make the bread soggy.

What to Serve With Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich?

Tomato Basil Soup

A classic pairing that turns your sandwich into a cozy meal.

Garlic Parmesan Fries

Crispy and flavorful, these are perfect for dipping.

Simple Mixed Greens Salad

A fresh and tangy salad balances the richness of the panini.

Roasted Vegetables

Add some hearty, warm veggies on the side for a nourishing touch.

Sweet Potato Chips

A crunchy, slightly sweet alternative to regular chips.

Pickles or Giardiniera

Add something acidic and briny to cut through the richness.

Pasta Salad

Especially one with vinaigrette for a light and zesty complement.

Fresh Fruit Cup

A sweet, juicy finish that keeps things light and refreshing.

Want More Sandwich Ideas?

If you’re loving this grilled chicken panini sandwich, you might also enjoy:

• Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese: gooey, melty, and packed with pizza flavor.
• Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri: if you’re craving bold, fresh, and herby meat options.
• Easy Chicken Fried Rice: another smart way to use up cooked chicken.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna: for a warm, indulgent dinner alternative.
• Crispy and Delicious Easy Chinese Egg Rolls: crunchy and savory for your next appetizer fix.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s easy to find next time you’re craving a warm, cheesy sandwich.

I’d love to hear how you customized yours. Did you use sun-dried tomatoes or maybe switch up the cheese? Questions or twists? Drop them in the comments!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new favorites to feel great and eat better every day.

Conclusion

The grilled chicken panini sandwich is a modern comfort food classic. It blends simple ingredients into something truly satisfying, whether you’re making lunch for yourself or dinner for your family. Toasted, gooey, savory and fresh all at once—this is one sandwich that always delivers.

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