The Large Chicken Grilled Ciabatta Sandwich is a hearty and flavorful meal, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. With tender grilled chicken, melted provolone cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh arugula, all stacked between crispy toasted ciabatta, this sandwich is a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors. The pesto sauce adds a burst of herbal goodness that ties everything together, making this sandwich a true treat.

Ingredients

1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast
1 ciabatta bread roll
2 slices of provolone cheese
1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes
1/4 cup of arugula
2 tablespoons of pesto sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper on both sides.
Grill the chicken breast over medium heat until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes per side.
While the chicken is grilling, slice the ciabatta bread roll in half and toast it on the grill or in a toaster oven until golden and crispy.
Once the bread is toasted, spread pesto sauce generously on both sides of the ciabatta.
Layer the grilled chicken, provolone cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and arugula on one half of the bread.
Close the sandwich with the other half of the ciabatta bread.
Cut the sandwich in half, serve hot, and enjoy your delicious meal!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 1
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Swap provolone cheese for mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda for a different flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to bring some heat to the sandwich.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or a veggie patty for a delicious vegetarian option.
Herbed Pesto: Use different types of pesto, like sun-dried tomato pesto or basil pesto, to vary the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store it, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 day.
Reheating: To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet or toaster oven for a few minutes to warm it through and crisp up the bread again.

10 FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can use baguette, whole grain bread, or even a soft sandwich roll if you prefer.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Mozzarella, gouda, or even sharp cheddar would work well in this sandwich.
Can I make the pesto sauce myself?
Yes, homemade pesto sauce made with fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and olive oil is a great option.
How can I make the sandwich spicier?
Add jalapeños, spicy mustard, or a drizzle of chili oil to the sandwich to give it a bit of heat.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work as well and add a bit more flavor and juiciness.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can grill the chicken ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and assemble the sandwich when ready to eat.
Can I substitute sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, fresh tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even pickled onions can be used as alternatives.
Can I make this sandwich without grilling?
If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a skillet or on a grill pan for similar results.
Can I toast the bread in the oven?
Yes, you can toast the ciabatta bread in the oven at 375°F for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
Can I freeze the sandwich?
It’s best to freeze the components separately (e.g., the chicken and bread) and assemble the sandwich fresh when you’re ready to eat.

Conclusion

The Large Chicken Grilled Ciabatta Sandwich is a flavorful, filling meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any time of day. With a balance of savory chicken, creamy cheese, and fresh vegetables, all enhanced by the vibrant pesto sauce, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re grilling for a quick lunch or preparing a weekend treat, this sandwich is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.