Chicken Panini

This rotisserie chicken panini combines the convenience of a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken with the heart of a homemade meal. Savory chicken, smoky bacon, melted mozzarella and fresh vegetables come together between slices of grilled sourdough bread. What really sets this panini apart is a simple spread made with mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, pesto, lemon juice and lemon zest. You’ll love making this recipe at home because it’s a fantastic way to elevate leftover rotisserie chicken. It’s quick enough for a weekday lunch yet elegant enough for a casual weekend gathering.

Chicken Panini Ingredients

• Mayonnaise: This condiment adds a creamy texture and moisture to the sandwich, ensuring it stays tender and flavorful.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Parm enhances the mayonnaise mixture with a salty and umami-rich flavor, adding depth to the spread.
• Lemon juice: Citrus provides a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and cheese.
• Prepared pesto: The pesto brings a burst of herbal freshness and a hint of garlic, elevating the overall flavor profile. Swap in homemade pesto if you prefer.
• Grated lemon zest: This infuses the spread with a concentrated citrus aroma, adding a refreshing note.
• Pepper: A dash of pepper adds a subtle heat and enhances the other flavors in the mayonnaise mixture.
• Sourdough bread: The bread acts as a sturdy foundation, becoming crispy and golden when grilled, holding all the ingredients together.
• Rotisserie chicken: Chicken is a savory and convenient source of protein that adds a hearty element to the panini.
• Bacon: Ready-to-serve fully cooked bacon adds a salty and smoky flavor and crisp texture that contrasts with the tender chicken.
• Smoked part-skim mozzarella cheese: This cheese melts well, offering a smoky and creamy flavor that compliments the other ingredients.
• Red onion: It adds a crunchy texture and a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that balances the richness of the cheese and bacon.
• Tomato: The slices introduce juiciness and mild acidity to enhance the overall flavor profile of the panini.
• Butter: Brushed on the outside of the bread, the butter ensures the bread toasts to a perfect golden brown. It adds a rich and buttery flavor.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the mayonnaise spread

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, prepared pesto, grated lemon zest, and a dash of pepper. Mix until well blended.

Step 2: Assemble the sandwiches

Spread half of this mixture over two slices of sourdough bread. Layer the bread with sliced rotisserie chicken, fully cooked bacon, smoked part-skim mozzarella cheese, red onion rings, and tomato slices. Spread the remaining mayonnaise mixture over the other two slices of bread and place them on top to form the sandwiches.

Step 3: Grill the panini

Brush the outsides of the sandwiches with melted butter, ensuring even coverage. Preheat your panini maker or indoor grill to medium-high heat. Place the sandwiches on the grill and cook until the bread is browned and the cheese is melted, about three to four minutes. Serve immediately.

Chicken Panini Variations

• Add avocado: Layer slices of ripe avocado for a creamy texture and a boost of healthy fats.
• Make your own bread: Try using homemade sourdough to make these paninis extra special.
• Add roasted red peppers: Add slices of jarred or homemade roasted red peppers for a sweet and smoky taste.
• Use caramelized onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory flavor.

How to Store Chicken Panini

To store leftover chicken pesto panini, let sandwiches cool completely. Then wrap each sandwich tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Place the wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. Reheat the panini in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy when ready to enjoy them again.

Can you freeze chicken panini?

Yes, you can freeze a chicken panini sandwich. Make the recipe through Step 1 and Step 2, but do not proceed to Step 3. Wrap each fully assembled but non-grilled sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw the panini in the refrigerator overnight and then grill it as directed until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted when ready to eat.

Chicken Panini Tips

What are some good side dishes to pair with this chicken panini?

Sweet potato fries provide a satisfying crunch and a hint of sweetness that complements the flavors of the sandwich. For a classic combination, a warm bowl of tomato soup pairs perfectly. Potato salad, whether creamy or vinegar-based, pairs well. Pickles add a tangy and crunchy element that enhances the savory ingredients in this chicken panini recipe.

Can I use leftover grilled chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can use leftover grilled chicken instead of rotisserie chicken for your panini. Slice the grilled chicken thinly and use it in place of the rotisserie chicken. The grilled chicken will add a slightly different texture and a smoky flavor, making the panini just as delicious.

Can I use a different type of cheese in my chicken panini?

Gruyere, pepper jack, or provolone are all excellent alternatives that will bring their own flavors to this panini and melt beautifully. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses to find the perfect combination that suits your taste.