A delightful fusion of flavors packed into one hearty sandwich. The tangy, citrusy marinade for the chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy mozzarella and fresh, juicy tomatoes. Topped with aromatic basil, this sandwich offers a gourmet twist on a classic lunch favorite.
Most of the ingredients for this Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Mozzarella, Tomato, and Basil recipe are common kitchen staples. However, fresh basil and ciabatta rolls might need to be sought after. Fresh basil can typically be found in the produce section of your local supermarket while ciabatta rolls are a type of Italian white bread that's usually available in the bakery section.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Mozzarella, Tomato, and Basil
Extra virgin olive oil: This oil is made from pure, cold-pressed olives and adds a rich, fruity flavor to the chicken.
Lemon: The zest and juice of the lemon is used to create a tangy, zesty marinade for the chicken.
Thyme: Thyme leaves add an earthy, slightly sweet flavor to the marinade.
Garlic: Garlic provides a robust, savory flavor to the chicken.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add a juicy, refreshing element to the sandwich.
Chicken breast cutlets: These are the main protein of the sandwich, taking on the flavors of the marinade.
Ciabatta rolls: These Italian white bread rolls have a crispy crust and soft, porous texture which soaks up the flavors of the ingredients well.
Fresh mozzarella: This soft, creamy cheese adds a rich, milky flavor to the sandwich.
Basil leaves: Fresh basil leaves provide a fragrant, peppery taste and aroma to the sandwich.
One reader, Kessiah Hay says:
The grilled chicken sandwiches with mozzarella, tomato, and basil recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the chicken is juicy and tender. The combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil creates a burst of deliciousness in every bite. It's a must-try for any sandwich lover!
Mastering the Art of Grilled Chicken Sandwiches
How to marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the bowl and turn to coat. Let the chicken marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes.
How to grill the rolls: Brush the ciabatta rolls with olive oil and grill over high heat until they turn golden brown.
How to grill the chicken: Season the marinated chicken with salt and pepper, then grill over high heat, turning once, until cooked through and lightly charred, about 6 minutes.
How to assemble the sandwiches: Place the grilled chicken on the rolls and top with mozzarella, tomato, and basil. Spoon any tomato juices on the top half of the bun, then close the sandwiches and serve.
How To Make Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Mozzarella, Tomato, and Basil
For a quick, but deliciously filling lunch; whip up a serving or two of these tender grilled chicken sandwiches, that’s loaded with herbs and tomatoes!
Serves:
Ingredients
- ¼cupextra virgin olive oil,plus 2 tbsp
- 1lemon,zested, finely grated
- 1½tbsplemon juice,fresh
- 1tbspthyme leaves
- 2garlic clove
- kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
- 2tomatoes
- 12chicken breast cutlets,(2½ lbs)
- 6ciabatta rolls
- 6fresh mozzarella slices
- 6basil leaves,optional
Instructions
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In a large bowl, whisk the olive oil with the lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, garlic and a generous pinch each of salt and pepper.
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Spoon 1½ tablespoons of the mixture into a medium bowl, add the tomatoes and turn to coat. Add the chicken to the large bowl and turn to coat.
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Let the tomatoes and chicken stand at room temperature for 30 minutes.
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Light a grill.
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Brush the rolls with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and grill over high heat until golden.
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Add the chicken to the grill, season with salt and pepper and grill over high heat, for about 6 minutes, turning once, until cooked through and lightly charred.
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Place the chicken on the rolls and top with the mozzarella, tomato and basil.
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Spoon any tomato juices on the top half of the bun, close the sandwiches and serve. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 894.70kcal
- Fat: 36.42g
- Saturated Fat: 11.02g
- Trans Fat: 0.24g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 17.09g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.66g
- Carbohydrates: 60.40g
- Fiber: 5.84g
- Sugar: 6.37g
- Protein: 63.41g
- Cholesterol: 167.02mg
- Sodium: 1048.93mg
- Calcium: 185.29mg
- Potassium: 659.15mg
- Iron: 2.25mg
- Vitamin A: 124.91µg
- Vitamin C: 13.26mg
Elevate Your Sandwich Game with This Simple Trick
When grilling chicken, it's important to preheat the grill to a high heat before adding the chicken. This ensures a nice sear on the outside, locking in the juices and flavor. Also, refrain from moving the chicken around too much on the grill. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to achieve those desirable grill marks. Lastly, remember that chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure your chicken is cooked to the correct temperature, promoting both safety and taste.
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Sandwich Makers
Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken and slice the tomatoes in advance to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a grill pan: If you don't have access to an outdoor grill, a grill pan can be a convenient alternative for cooking the chicken indoors.
Multi-task: While the chicken is marinating, you can prepare the other ingredients or set the table to make the cooking process more efficient.
Pre-sliced ingredients: Consider purchasing pre-sliced mozzarella and pre-washed basil to minimize prep time.
Grill extra: Cook extra chicken cutlets and store them in the fridge for quick and easy meal prep for the next day.
Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Mozzarella, Tomato, and Basil Recipe
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for extra virgin olive oil in this recipe.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime can provide a similar citrusy flavor and acidity to the dish, complementing the other ingredients in the recipe.
thyme leaves - Substitute with rosemary: Rosemary can add a fragrant and earthy flavor to the chicken, complementing the other ingredients in the recipe.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, sweet onion flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering the other ingredients.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the dish.
tomatoes - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers can offer a sweet and smoky flavor, adding depth to the sandwich similar to tomatoes.
chicken breast cutlets - Substitute with portobello mushrooms: Portobello mushrooms can provide a meaty texture and rich flavor, making them a delicious vegetarian alternative for the sandwich.
ciabatta rolls - Substitute with sourdough bread: Sourdough bread can offer a tangy flavor and sturdy texture, making it a suitable substitute for ciabatta rolls in the sandwich.
fresh mozzarella - Substitute with smoked gouda: Smoked gouda can provide a rich and smoky flavor, adding depth to the sandwich similar to fresh mozzarella.
basil leaves - Substitute with arugula: Arugula can offer a peppery and slightly bitter flavor, adding a unique twist to the sandwich in place of basil leaves.
Plating Ideas for a Delightful Sandwich Experience
Elevate the chicken cutlets: Arrange the grilled chicken cutlets on the plate in a visually appealing manner, ensuring they are the focal point of the dish.
Artfully place the mozzarella slices: Carefully position the fresh mozzarella slices around the chicken, creating a balanced and elegant composition.
Garnish with vibrant tomato slices: Place the marinated tomato slices strategically on the plate, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Drizzle with herb-infused olive oil: Use a delicate hand to drizzle the herb-infused olive oil over the chicken, mozzarella, and tomatoes, adding a touch of flavor and sophistication.
Finish with a basil leaf flourish: Place a fresh basil leaf on top of each chicken cutlet, adding a final touch of vibrant green to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Gear for Crafting the Perfect Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Large bowl: You will need a large bowl to marinate the chicken and mix the olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, and garlic for the grilled chicken sandwiches.
Grill: A grill is essential for cooking the chicken and grilling the ciabatta rolls to perfection.
Tongs: Tongs will come in handy for flipping the chicken cutlets on the grill.
Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for slicing the tomatoes and cutting the ciabatta rolls.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for slicing the tomatoes and assembling the sandwiches.
Whisk: A whisk is required for mixing the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, and garlic to create the marinade for the chicken.
Brush: A brush will be used to apply the olive oil to the ciabatta rolls before grilling.
Spatula: A spatula will be useful for transferring the grilled chicken cutlets onto the ciabatta rolls.
Plates: Plates will be needed for serving the grilled chicken sandwiches with mozzarella, tomato, and basil.
Preserving the Goodness of Grilled Chicken Sandwiches
- To store leftover grilled chicken sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- If you want to freeze the sandwiches, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Then, place the wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Label the container with the date and contents.
- Frozen grilled chicken sandwiches can be stored for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
- To reheat frozen sandwiches, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat them in the oven, on a grill, or in a skillet over medium heat until the chicken is heated through and the cheese is melted.
- If you want to store the components of the sandwich separately, you can store the grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. The tomatoes and basil should be stored separately in the refrigerator and used within a few days for the best quality.
- When storing the grilled chicken, make sure it has cooled completely before placing it in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent moisture buildup and potential bacterial growth.
- If you have leftover mozzarella cheese, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It should be used within a week for the best quality and flavor.
Reviving Leftover Grilled Chicken Sandwiches
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover grilled chicken sandwich on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and the sandwich is heated through. This method will help restore the crispiness of the ciabatta roll while keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, you can use a microwave. Wrap the sandwich loosely in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The damp paper towel will help prevent the bread from becoming too soggy. However, keep in mind that the microwave may not restore the crispiness of the roll as effectively as the oven method.
For a crispy exterior and a melty interior, try reheating your sandwich in a panini press or a grill pan. Preheat the press or pan over medium heat, then place the sandwich inside and press down firmly. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the mozzarella is melted and the ciabatta roll is crispy and golden brown. This method will give your leftover sandwich a freshly-grilled taste and texture.
If you want to add a touch of freshness to your reheated sandwich, consider adding a few new basil leaves and a slice of fresh tomato before serving. This will brighten up the flavors and make your leftover sandwich taste like it was just made.
Surprising Trivia About Grilled Chicken Sandwiches
Grilled chicken sandwiches are a popular dish in many cultures. They are a versatile meal that can be customized with various toppings and condiments. The combination of mozzarella, tomato, and basil in this recipe provides a fresh and flavorful addition to the grilled chicken. This dish is not only delicious but also a good source of protein and essential nutrients. It's a great option for a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
Budget-Friendly Grilled Chicken Sandwiches: Is It Possible?
This grilled chicken sandwich with mozzarella, tomato, and basil recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken breast cutlets, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, are generally affordable and readily available. The use of simple yet flavorful ingredients like olive oil, lemon, and thyme adds value without breaking the bank. With an approximate cost of $25, this recipe can easily feed a household of 4. The overall verdict for this recipe is a solid 9, considering its affordability and delicious outcome.
Is This Grilled Chicken Sandwich Recipe Healthy?
The grilled chicken sandwich recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes:
- Lean protein from the chicken breast cutlets
- Fresh vegetables like tomatoes and basil, providing vitamins and minerals
- Whole grain ciabatta rolls for complex carbohydrates and fiber
However, there are some areas of concern:
- The recipe uses a significant amount of olive oil, which is high in calories and fat
- Mozzarella cheese adds additional saturated fat and calories
- The sodium content may be high, depending on the amount of salt used
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the marinade and brushing the rolls. Instead, opt for a lighter brush of oil or use cooking spray to minimize added fat and calories. Swap the mozzarella cheese for a lower-fat alternative, such as part-skim mozzarella or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. This will help reduce the overall saturated fat content without compromising on flavor. Increase the vegetable content by adding grilled zucchini, eggplant, or roasted red peppers to the sandwich. This will boost the fiber and nutrient density of the meal. Use a whole grain bun or lettuce wrap instead of ciabatta rolls to reduce the carbohydrate content and increase the fiber. Be mindful of the amount of salt used in the recipe. Opt for low-sodium alternatives or use herbs and spices to enhance the flavor instead of relying on salt.
Why Our Editor Can't Get Enough of These Sandwiches
This grilled chicken sandwich recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The marinade infuses the chicken with a bright, zesty essence, complemented by the juicy, tangy tomatoes and the creamy, rich mozzarella. The basil adds a fresh, aromatic note that ties everything together. Grilling the chicken adds a smoky depth, while toasting the ciabatta rolls provides a satisfying crunch. This dish is a perfect balance of savory, citrusy, and herbaceous elements, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any occasion.
Enhance Your Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Mozzarella, Tomato, and Basil Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Discover Mouthwatering Alternatives to Traditional Grilled Chicken Sandwiches
Appetizers and Desserts: The Ideal Bookends for Your Grilled Chicken Sandwich Feast
Why trust this Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Mozzarella, Tomato, and Basil Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delicious meal with grilled chicken, mozzarella, tomato, and basil. The marinade, made with extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest, and thyme leaves, infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors. The use of fresh ingredients like tomatoes and basil leaves ensures a burst of freshness in every bite. The grilling process adds a smoky char to the chicken, elevating its taste. With the combination of these high-quality ingredients, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying experience for anyone who tries it.
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