Mozzarella Pesto Chicken Grilled Cheese (Print Version)

Juicy shredded chicken, vibrant pesto, and gooey mozzarella pressed to golden perfection in this savory grilled cheese sandwich.

# Components:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices sourdough or Italian bread
02 - 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or shredded
03 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

→ Protein

04 - 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast

→ Sauces & Spreads

05 - 3 tbsp basil pesto, store-bought or homemade

→ Optional Add-Ins

06 - 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 1 small tomato, thinly sliced
08 - Fresh basil leaves

# Directions:

01 - Lay out the bread slices and spread 1 to 1.5 tablespoons pesto onto two of the slices.
02 - Evenly distribute the shredded chicken on top of the pesto-covered slices.
03 - Layer mozzarella cheese over the chicken. Add tomato slices and fresh basil if using. Sprinkle with Parmesan for additional flavor if desired.
04 - Top with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
05 - Spread the softened butter on the outsides of each sandwich, covering both top and bottom surfaces.
06 - Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet, pressing them slightly with a spatula. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
07 - Remove from the skillet, let rest for 1 minute, then cut in half and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It transforms humble leftovers into something that feels indulgent and special without any fuss.
  • The combination of buttery toasted bread, melty mozzarella, and that bright pesto punch is pure comfort with a twist.
  • You can have two gorgeous sandwiches on the table in under twenty minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
02 -
  • If your heat is too high, the bread will burn before the cheese melts, so keep it at medium and be patient.
  • Softening the butter before spreading makes all the difference, cold butter tears the bread and leaves uneven patches that do not crisp properly.
  • Pressing the sandwich gently with a spatula while it cooks helps everything meld together and encourages even browning.
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it holds heat beautifully and gives you the most even, golden crust.
  • Let the sandwiches rest for a full minute after cooking so the cheese firms up just enough to hold together when you cut them.
  • If you want extra crispy edges, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan directly onto the buttered bread before it hits the pan.
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