Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Grilling · Storage: Up to 3 days in the fridge.
Quick Answer
For a delicious holiday treat, grill seasoned chicken breasts, blend fresh basil with pine nuts and Parmesan for pesto, and layer everything on ciabatta with arugula and tomatoes.
As the autumn breeze dances through the streets of New York City, the holiday season is upon us. With Thanksgiving and Christmas around the corner, it's the perfect time to indulge in comforting dishes that bring people together. One of my standout creations for this season is the Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich. Packed with vibrant flavors and heartwarming aromas, this sandwich is sure to impress your guests at any gathering.
A Flavorful Holiday Delight
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously fresh flavors that celebrate seasonal ingredients.
- Quick and easy preparation-perfect for busy holiday gatherings.
- A versatile meal that can be customized with your favorite toppings.
- Hearty and satisfying, making it a great choice for family and friends.
- Sharp contrast of textures and flavors with every bite.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Basil Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ⅓ cup pine nuts (toasted for extra flavor)
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled
- Salt, to taste
For Assembly:
- 4 ciabatta rolls or your favorite crusty bread
- 1 cup fresh arugula
- Slices of ripe tomatoes
- Optional: Additional Parmesan for garnish
How to Make Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich that will impress anyone.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. In a medium skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the chicken breasts, listening for that delightful sizzle. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. When cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing into juicy pieces.
Step 2: Make the Basil Pesto
While the chicken is cooking, I recommend preparing the basil pesto, which adds a fresh and aromatic touch to the sandwich. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is combined and smooth, resembling a vibrant green paste. Finally, add in the Parmesan cheese and pulse again until incorporated. A pinch of salt will enhance the flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Slice the ciabatta rolls (or your choice of crusty bread) in half and spread a generous amount of the basil pesto on each side. Layer the sliced chicken, fresh arugula, and succulent tomato slices. If you're feeling indulgent, sprinkle some additional Parmesan on top. Close the sandwich with the other half of the roll. You can serve it as is or warm it up in the skillet for a few minutes to make the bread extra crispy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Don't let the chicken dry out; monitor its cooking time closely.
- Skipping Toasting the Pine Nuts: Toaster brings out the nuts' rich flavor, so don't skip this step!
- Not Using Fresh Basil: Dried basil cannot replicate the aromatic freshness needed for the pesto's vibrant flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like roasted red peppers or avocado to elevate your sandwich.
- For an even richer flavor in the pesto, consider adding a hint of lemon juice.
- Serve with sweet potato fries or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
Variations
- Use grilled vegetables instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.
- Swap ciabatta rolls for whole grain bread for a healthier choice.
- Add a slice of mozzarella or goat cheese for extra creaminess.
- Incorporate a spicy aioli for a kick of heat.
How to Serve
- Pair with a side of homemade potato chips for a casual meal.
- Serve on a platter cut in halves for easier sharing at gatherings.
- Warm in the oven to melt the cheese before serving for a comforting touch.
- Accompany with a glass of chilled white wine for a delightful pairing.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the basil pesto in advance and store it in the fridge.
- Storage: Wrap leftover chicken tightly in foil; refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken before assembling your sandwich for optimal flavor and texture.
- Freezing: Basil pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about a week or frozen for several months.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Throughout my journey of crafting this sandwich, I discovered that the key to its success lies in the freshness of the ingredients. The bright flavor of fresh basil combined with the warm, savory chicken is simply unmatched. Plus, it serves as a delightful centerpiece for any festive gathering. Give it a try this holiday season-your taste buds will thank you!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 sandwiches · Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~450 calories · 30g protein · 35g carbs · 25g fat
Recipe by:
Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich for Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Let rest and slice.
- In a food processor, blend the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and a pinch of salt until finely chopped. Drizzle in the olive oil while pulsing to make a smooth pesto. Mix in Parmesan cheese.
- Slice ciabatta rolls in half and spread pesto on both sides. Layer sliced chicken, arugula, and tomatoes. Optionally sprinkle with Parmesan. Close the sandwich and serve or warm in skillet.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of meat for this sandwich?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with turkey or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
2. How long does the basil pesto last in the fridge?
The basil pesto can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for about a week.
3. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
It's best to assemble the sandwich fresh for optimal taste; however, you can prepare the chicken and pesto in advance and store them separately.
4. What can I serve with this sandwich?
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with sweet potato fries, a crisp salad, or even a bowl of soup.
5. Is this sandwich gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free bread for the sandwich assembly, it can easily be made gluten-free.
