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This Chicken Caprese Sandwich is everything you want in a handheld bite—melty mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, grilled chicken, and a swipe of pesto on crisp, golden bread. It’s fast, filling, and full of flavor. Think café-quality sandwich made right at home.
Why We Love This Chicken Caprese Sandwich
Quick to make and even quicker to disappear, this sandwich is a favorite for so many reasons:
- Classic Caprese Flavors: Tomato, basil, and mozzarella never miss.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Chicken makes it a real meal.
- Pesto Magic: Adds a burst of herby richness.
- Panini-Style Finish: Toasted bread brings that crave-worthy crunch.
- Lunch or Dinner Ready: Great with a salad or soup on the side.
Key Ingredients
Full amounts are listed in the recipe card below, but here’s your shopping list:
- Chicken Breast – Cooked and sliced or use rotisserie chicken.
- Fresh Mozzarella – Sliced for easy layering.
- Tomato – Thick slices, preferably ripe and juicy.
- Pesto – Store-bought or homemade.
- Bread – Ciabatta, sourdough, or any crusty sandwich bread.
- Olive Oil or Butter – For grilling the sandwich.
How to Make a Chicken Caprese Sandwich
Here’s how to get that warm, melty, crispy sandwich on your plate fast:
- Prep the Bread: Slice your bread and lightly brush the outsides with olive oil or butter.
- Assemble: On the inside of each sandwich, spread pesto on one slice, then layer mozzarella, chicken, and tomato. Top with the second slice.
- Grill It: Heat a skillet or panini press over medium heat. Cook sandwich for 3–5 minutes per side, pressing down gently, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Slice in half and serve warm.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
- Make It a Melt: Add a slice of provolone for even more cheesy pull.
- Use Chicken Cutlets: Thin, crispy chicken cutlets turn this into a deluxe version.
- Add Greens: A handful of arugula or baby spinach adds color and crunch.
- Balsamic Drizzle: For extra Caprese flair, add a light drizzle before serving.
What to Serve With Chicken Caprese Sandwich
Soups
Pair with tomato basil soup or Italian wedding soup for a cozy combo.
Salads
Serve alongside a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Chips or Fries
Go classic deli-style with kettle chips or air fryer fries.
Chicken Caprese Sandwich
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: ~20 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
This Chicken Caprese Sandwich layers juicy grilled chicken, fresh tomato, creamy mozzarella, and herby pesto on crusty bread. Grilled until golden and melty, it’s a sandwich that tastes like it came from your favorite café—but it’s quick and easy enough to make at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, sliced (or ~2 cups rotisserie chicken)
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella
- 1 medium ripe tomato, sliced
- 2 tablespoons pesto
- 2 ciabatta rolls or 4 slices of sourdough bread
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for grilling)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Slice bread and lightly brush outsides with olive oil or butter.
- Spread pesto on one inside half of each sandwich.
- Layer with mozzarella, sliced chicken, and tomato. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Top with the second slice of bread, pesto side in.
- Grill in a skillet or panini press over medium heat for 3–5 minutes per side, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
- Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prep all components and assemble just before grilling.
- Add Greens: A few arugula leaves or spinach add color and crunch.
- Variation: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy touch.
