Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/14 checked
4
servings
8 ounce

ciabatta bread

halved

2 tsp

canola oil

1 pound

chicken cutlets

sliced

0.25 tsp

kosher salt

0.25 tsp

black pepper

1 cup

basil

1 tbsp

garlic

chopped

1 tbsp

pine nuts

toasted

1 tbsp

olive oil

1 tbsp

water

0.25 tsp

black pepper

0.13 tsp

kosher salt

1 unit

roasted red bell pepper

peeled, quartered

2 slice

provolone cheese

Step 1
~2 min

Cut the ciabatta bread in half horizontally.

Step 2
~2 min

Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3
~2 min

Sprinkle chicken cutlets with kosher salt and black pepper.

Step 4
~2 min

Saute chicken for 3 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Step 5
~2 min

Let the chicken stand for 10 minutes to rest.

Step 6
~2 min

Slice the cooked chicken into thin pieces.

Step 7
~2 min

Combine basil, garlic, toasted pine nuts, olive oil, water, black pepper, and kosher salt in a mini food processor.

Step 8
~2 min

Pulse until the pesto is finely chopped.

Step 9
~2 min

Cut the roasted red bell pepper into quarters, discarding seeds and membranes.

Step 10
~2 min

Arrange the pepper quarters on the bottom half of the bread.

Step 11
~2 min

Top with provolone cheese slices and sliced chicken.

Step 12
~2 min

Spread the basil pesto mixture on the cut side of the top half of the bread.

Step 13
~2 min

Place the top half of the bread on the sandwich.

Step 14
~2 min

Cut the sandwich crosswise into 4 equal portions.

Step 15
~2 min

Press the panini in a panini press or grill pan until golden brown and cheese is melted.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

For a spicier panini, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto.

Brush the outside of the bread with olive oil before pressing for extra crispness.

Marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for added flavor.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

15 minutes

Batch Cooking
Not Ideal
Make Ahead

Pesto can be made ahead of time.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Moderate
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad.

Serve with potato chips.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Tomato soup
Green salad

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Tuscany, Italy

Cultural Significance

Represents simple, fresh Italian cuisine.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Occasion Tags

Lunch
Quick Meal

Popularity Score

70/100

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