Mozzarella Pesto Chicken Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Crispy sourdough piled with chicken, pesto, and melted mozzarella for a golden, savory sandwich.

# What You Need:

→ Bread & Dairy

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

→ Protein

04 - 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast

→ Sauces & Spreads

05 - 3 tbsp basil pesto

→ Optional Add-Ins

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

# How to Make It:

01 - Lay out all four bread slices on a clean surface. Spread basil pesto evenly onto two of the slices, using approximately 1 to 1.5 tablespoons per slice.
02 - Distribute the shredded chicken breast evenly over the pesto-covered slices. Arrange the fresh mozzarella over the chicken layer. If desired, add tomato slices and fresh basil at this stage, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan for enhanced flavor.
03 - Place the remaining bread slices on top to complete the sandwiches, ensuring the fillings are contained within.
04 - Spread softened butter generously on the outside surfaces of each sandwich, coating both the top and bottom bread faces completely.
05 - Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the hot pan, pressing gently with a spatula. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the bread achieves a deep golden brown color and the mozzarella is fully melted and bubbly.
06 - Transfer sandwiches from the skillet and allow to rest for 1 minute. Cut each sandwich in half diagonally and serve immediately while hot and gooey.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The pesto creates an instant flavor bomb that makes plain grilled cheese feel almost boring by comparison
  • Using shredded chicken means every bite has protein, not just melty cheese on bread
02 -
  • Medium heat is crucial here because high heat burns the bread before the cheese has time to melt into gooey perfection
  • Letting the sandwiches rest for a full minute after cooking prevents the cheese from immediately oozing out when you cut them
03 -
  • Mayo instead of butter on the outside creates an even crispier, more golden crust that will change your grilled cheese life
  • Weight the sandwiches down with a heavy pan or bacon press for restaurant style panini results without buying special equipment
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