Pesto Chicken Focaccia Sandwich

The Pesto Chicken Focaccia Sandwich combines juicy grilled chicken, creamy provolone cheese, fresh arugula, and tangy pesto sauce, all nestled between soft, flavorful focaccia bread. This sandwich is a satisfying and delicious option for lunch or dinner, offering a balance of savory, herbal, and fresh flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup pesto sauce
• 4 slices focaccia bread
• 1 cup arugula
• 1 tomato, sliced
• 4 slices provolone cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Spread pesto sauce evenly on each slice of focaccia bread.
5. Place the grilled chicken on the bottom slice of bread.
6. Top the chicken with arugula, tomato slices, and provolone cheese.
7. Place the remaining slice of focaccia bread on top to form a sandwich.
8. Cut the sandwich in half, serve, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: Swap provolone for mozzarella, gouda, or even goat cheese for different textures and flavors.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the grilled chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes, spicy mustard, or a drizzle of hot sauce to bring some heat to the sandwich.
• Herbed Pesto: Try using a different type of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato or basil pesto, to vary the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: It’s best to enjoy this sandwich fresh, but you can wrap the leftovers tightly and refrigerate them for up to 1 day.
• Reheating: To reheat, wrap the sandwich in foil and warm it in the oven for about 5 minutes, or use a skillet to heat the sandwich and melt the cheese.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread?
   Yes, you can use ciabatta, baguette, or even a soft sandwich roll instead of focaccia.
2. Can I use store-bought pesto sauce?
   Yes, store-bought pesto is a convenient option, but homemade pesto will enhance the flavor of the sandwich.
3. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
   Yes, grilled chicken can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the sandwich?
   Yes, you can add cucumbers, roasted peppers, or even caramelized onions for extra flavor and texture.
5. Can I make the sandwich spicy?
   Yes, adding jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes will add a spicy kick to the sandwich.
6. Can I use a different cheese?
   Yes, mozzarella, cheddar, or even goat cheese are great alternatives to provolone.
7. Is this sandwich suitable for meal prep?
   The sandwich components can be prepped ahead of time (grilled chicken, sliced veggies, pesto), but it’s best to assemble the sandwich fresh for the best texture.
8. Can I grill the chicken indoors?
   Yes, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or skillet if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.
9. Can I use a different type of leafy greens?
   Yes, spinach, mixed greens, or even lettuce would work as a substitute for arugula.
10. Can I make this sandwich without cheese?
    Yes, you can omit the cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version, or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.

Conclusion

The Pesto Chicken Focaccia Sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying choice for a quick meal. With its combination of grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and the rich, herbaceous flavor of pesto, this sandwich offers a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch or a casual dinner, this sandwich is sure to impress.

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