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Chicken Pesto Paninis

Irresistible Chicken Pesto Paninis for Quick Gourmet Dinners

This Chicken Pesto Panini is a quick gourmet dinner that combines crispy bacon, tender chicken, and rich pesto, all in under 15 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 paninis
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sandwich
  • 2 slices Focaccia Ciabatta can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 cup Leftover Roast Chicken Try using rotisserie chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be a lighter option.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Chives Green onions can be used as an alternative.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 1 cup Rocket (Arugula) Spinach or lettuce can be substituted.
  • 4 slices Streaky Bacon Turkey bacon or prosciutto can be used as alternatives.
  • 4 tablespoons Basil Pesto Store-bought or homemade works well.
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 cup Cheese Mozzarella or provolone for melting.
  • 1 cup Roasted Vegetables Bell peppers or zucchini are great options.
  • to taste Spices Crushed red pepper or jalapeños for heat.
  • to taste Nut-Based Pesto

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Pesto Paninis
  1. Begin by shredding your leftover roast chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped chives, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
  2. Slice your focaccia in half horizontally. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and place the cut side of the focaccia down onto the skillet. Toast for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Spread a generous layer of basil pesto on both halves of the toasted focaccia. On the bottom half, evenly distribute the chicken mixture, layer on crispy bacon pieces, and a handful of fresh rocket. Press the top half on.
  4. Return the assembled panini to the skillet over medium heat. Grill each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Cover with a lid if you prefer a melty texture.
  5. Once toasted, carefully remove the panini from the skillet and cut in half. Serve immediately while warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1paniniCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Watch the toasting carefully to avoid burning and adjust cooking times depending on the bacon used.

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