Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich
This grilled chicken caprese sandwich is a delicious fusion of juicy grilled chicken, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, all nestled in toasted ciabatta rolls. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this homemade caprese sandwich is a healthy and flavorful choice for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 4 ciabatta rolls
- 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 (8-ounce) ball of mozzarella, sliced
- 2 (8-ounce) beefsteak tomatoes, sliced
- 20-24 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions
- Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create four thin filets. Place one filet between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to pound it evenly to 1/4-inch thickness. Repeat with remaining filets.
- Combine olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Add the chicken, ensuring it's fully coated. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes and up to 8 hours.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates. Cook the chicken for 3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Toast the ciabatta rolls cut-side down for 1-2 minutes.
- Spread a generous layer of pesto on each bottom half of the rolls. Layer with sliced mozzarella, tomatoes, grilled chicken, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. Top with the remaining half of the rolls and serve immediately!
Notes
High-quality, fresh bread is crucial for a perfect Caprese sandwich. I prefer ciabatta rolls, but you could also use focaccia, sourdough, or a baguette. Whatever bread you use, I highly recommend you lightly toast it. I typically use beefsteak tomatoes in this sandwich since they are widely available year-round, but you can elevate this sandwich by using heirloom tomatoes when they are in season. They add a delicious touch of sweetness. You can easily transform the taste of this sandwich by changing the pesto you use. My favorite pesto variations are mint pesto and kale pesto. Add texture and peppery flavor to this sandwich with the addition of fresh arugula.