Pesto Chicken Sandwich on Sourdough Recipe

I recently whipped up this Pesto Chicken Sandwich on Sourdough Recipe, and let me tell you—it was a game-changer. The combination of juicy grilled chicken, aromatic pesto, and melted Swiss cheese on perfectly toasted sourdough bread was nothing short of delightful. It’s one of those meals that feels both comforting and gourmet, making it ideal for a cozy dinner or impressing guests. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make!

Ingredients You’ll Needed for Pesto Chicken Sandwich on Sourdough Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this sandwich delicious and balanced, with a few pro tips to make it even better.

• 1 pound (about 2 medium) boneless skinless chicken breasts: Pound the chicken to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking and tenderness.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: This blend adds a savory, herby flavor that complements the pesto beautifully.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning the chicken well enhances its natural flavors.
• 8 slices sourdough bread: Use fresh sourdough for the best texture and flavor.
• 1/4 cup pesto (divided): Homemade pesto offers a fresh taste, but store-bought works in a pinch.
• Mayonnaise (optional): Adds creaminess; use sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
• 2 medium tomatoes, sliced: Choose ripe tomatoes for the juiciest bite.
• 4 slices Swiss cheese: Swiss melts beautifully, adding a mild, nutty flavor.
• Olive oil (optional): Brushing the bread with olive oil before toasting gives it a golden, crispy finish.

Note: This recipe serves 4.

Variations

You can easily tweak this recipe to fit dietary needs or flavor preferences.

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free pesto and opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute sourdough with gluten-free bread.
• Add-Ins: Consider adding crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or arugula for extra flavor and texture.

Cooking Time

A quick glance at how long this recipe will take from start to finish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

The right tools make this sandwich simple to prepare and cook perfectly.

• Meat mallet or rolling pin: To pound chicken breasts to an even thickness.
• Skillet or grill pan: For cooking the chicken and toasting the bread.
• Knife and cutting board: For slicing tomatoes and assembling the sandwich.
• Spatula: To flip the sandwich while toasting.

How to Make Pesto Chicken Sandwich on Sourdough?

Step-by-step guidance to ensure a perfectly cooked, flavorful sandwich every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts between two layers of plastic wrap or in a large disposable plastic bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness, ensuring they cook uniformly. Season both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This step not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. If using a skillet, lightly grease the surface with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the chicken breasts for 5 to 8 minutes per side, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the centers reads 165°F (74°C). Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into 1/2-inch wide strips.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

While the chicken rests, prepare the bread. Spread mayonnaise (if using) and 2 tablespoons of pesto on each slice of sourdough bread. Layer the sliced chicken, tomato slices, and Swiss cheese on four of the bread slices. Top with the remaining bread slices, pesto side down, to form sandwiches.

Step 4: Toast the Sandwiches

Brush the outsides of the sandwiches lightly with olive oil or a thin layer of mayonnaise. Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the sandwiches until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even browning.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Small tweaks can make this sandwich even more delicious.

• I find that using fresh, homemade pesto elevates the sandwich’s flavor, but store-bought pesto is a convenient alternative.
• If you prefer a crispier texture, consider grilling the sandwiches in a panini press.
• For added richness, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the inside of the bread before adding the pesto.
• Letting the chicken rest before slicing helps retain its juices, keeping the sandwich moist.
• If you’re short on time, pre-cooked chicken slices can be used to assemble the sandwich quickly.

How to Serve Pesto Chicken Sandwich on Sourdough?

When serving the pesto chicken sandwich on sourdough, pair it with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh, light salad to balance the rich flavors of the chicken and melted cheese. For an elegant, gourmet touch, drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over the top of the sandwich. Finish by garnishing with a few fresh basil leaves, which not only add a pop of color but also enhance the aroma and flavor, making each bite irresistible.

Nutritional Information

A quick overview of the key nutritional values per serving.

• Calories: Approximately 630 kcal per serving
• Protein: 45g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 35g

Make Ahead and Storage

Tips to store, freeze, and reheat while keeping it fresh.

Storing: Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing: It’s best to freeze the components separately. Freeze the grilled chicken and pesto in airtight containers. Assemble and toast the sandwiches fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating: To reheat, remove tomatoes and reassemble the sandwich. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Reasons this sandwich is a favorite for any meal.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of pesto, chicken, and Swiss cheese is a flavor-packed delight.
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit dietary preferences and tastes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for serving guests or enjoying a comforting meal at home.

Enjoy crafting this delicious pesto chicken sandwich on sourdough, and savor each bite!