Description
The Chicken Caprese Panini is a warm, crispy sandwich filled with the classic flavors of Caprese salad—juicy chicken, melty mozzarella, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s a satisfying meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Panini:
- 2 cups cooked, sliced or shredded chicken (grilled or rotisserie works well)
- 4 ciabatta rolls or slices of rustic bread
- 8 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing the bread)
Optional Additions:
- Baby arugula for extra greens
- A pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning the tomatoes
Instructions
Assemble the Panini:
- Slice the ciabatta rolls or bread and layer the bottom half with cooked chicken, 2 slices of mozzarella, 2-3 slices of tomato, and a few fresh basil leaves.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the filling, and add a pinch of salt and pepper if desired. Top with the other half of the bread or roll.
Prepare for Grilling:
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil to ensure a golden, crispy crust.
Cook the Panini:
- Panini Press Method: Preheat your panini press. Place the sandwiches in the press and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and press down with a spatula or another heavy pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
Serve:
- Remove the panini from the heat, slice it in half, and serve warm. Pair with a simple salad or chips for a complete meal!
Notes
- Balsamic Glaze: To make your own, simmer 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar over medium heat until thickened, about 10 minutes.
- For extra flavor, spread a thin layer of pesto or garlic aioli on the bread before assembling the panini.
- If you don’t have a panini press, a regular skillet with a weighted lid works perfectly!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Grilling or Pressing
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 panini
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Chicken panini, Caprese sandwich, easy panini recipe, mozzarella sandwich, balsamic chicken