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Easy Pesto Chicken Avocado Panini

Easy Pesto Chicken Avocado Panini

Golden, melty panini layered with pesto, juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and fresh mozzarella—ready in under 20 minutes.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 2 roll ciabatta rolls split
  • 6 ounce cooked chicken breast, thinly sliced rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works
  • 3 ounce fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 1 count ripe avocado, sliced
  • 0.25 cup basil pesto store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup baby spinach
  • 0.5 cup tomato, thinly sliced optional
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened for spreading on the bread
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil for brushing the press or skillet
  • 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat a panini press to medium-high. If using a skillet, heat it over medium and lightly brush the plates or pan with olive oil.
  • Split the ciabatta rolls. Spread softened butter on the outsides of each roll (this will be the side that touches the grill).
  • Spread basil pesto on the inside of each roll. Layer on chicken, mozzarella, avocado, spinach, and tomato.
  • Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Close the sandwiches gently.
  • Grill in the panini press until the bread is golden and the cheese is melty, about 4 to 5 minutes. For a skillet, place the sandwiches in the pan, press with a heavy pan, cook 3 to 4 minutes per side.
  • Let rest 1 to 2 minutes, then slice and serve warm.

Notes

Swap ciabatta with sourdough or focaccia. Turkey or grilled tofu works in place of chicken. For extra crunch, add a few basil leaves or a crisp lettuce leaf after grilling.

Nutrition

Serving: 200g | Calories: 120kcal | Carbohydrates: 120g | Protein: 120g | Fat: 120g | Saturated Fat: 120g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 120g | Monounsaturated Fat: 120g | Trans Fat: 120g | Cholesterol: 120mg | Sodium: 120mg | Potassium: 120mg | Fiber: 120g | Sugar: 120g | Vitamin A: 120IU | Vitamin C: 120mg | Calcium: 120mg | Iron: 120mg