Mozzarella Pesto Chicken Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Juicy shredded chicken, vibrant pesto, and gooey mozzarella pressed into golden, savory perfection.

# What You Need:

→ Bread & Dairy

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

→ Protein

04 - 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast

→ Sauces & Spreads

05 - 3 tablespoons basil pesto

→ Optional Add-Ins

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

# Directions:

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

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The pesto creates this incredible aromatic base that infuses into every single layer
  • Rotisserie chicken means this comes together in under twenty minutes on busy nights
  • That golden crunch against the oozing mozzarella is basically comfort food perfection
02 -
  • Medium heat is crucial because high heat burns the bread before the cheese has time to melt into that gooey perfection
  • Letting the sandwiches rest for one minute after cooking prevents the cheese from immediately oozing out when you cut them
  • If your mozzarella seems too thick, try tearing it instead of slicing for more even melting
03 -
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one because the heat distribution creates the most evenly golden crust
  • Place a lightweight pan or foil-wrapped brick on top of the sandwiches while cooking for restaurant-style pressing
  • Leftover pesto freezes beautifully in ice cube trays, so you're always ready for another batch
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