The Grilled Chicken Pesto Sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying meal packed with grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, basil pesto, and crisp vegetables, all nestled between hearty slices of toasted bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this sandwich delivers bold flavors and a perfect balance of textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Grilled Chicken Pesto Sandwich combines the savory richness of grilled chicken with the aromatic freshness of basil pesto. The creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes add a delightful contrast to the crispy, toasted bread. The addition of alfalfa sprouts brings a touch of freshness and crunch. Quick to make and incredibly tasty, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals.

Grilled Chicken Pesto Sandwich

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
¼ cup basil pesto
4 slices hearty bread
1 tomato (sliced into ¼-inch thick slices)
1 cup alfalfa sprouts
4 slices fresh mozzarella

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Grill:

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, or heat a grill pan on the stove.

Prep the Chicken:

Place the chicken breasts on a platter.
Whisk 1 tablespoon of basil pesto with olive oil and brush the mixture onto both sides of the chicken.

Grill the Chicken:

Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes on the first side, then flip it over and grill for another 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165˚F (use an instant-read thermometer to check).

Toast the Bread:

Toast the bread on the grill for 1 minute on each side, or until lightly browned.

Assemble the Sandwich:

Brush the remaining pesto on one side of each slice of bread.
On two slices of bread, layer two slices of mozzarella cheese.
Place the grilled chicken on top of the cheese, followed by the tomato slices.
Sprinkle the alfalfa sprouts over the tomatoes, then top with the remaining slices of bread.

Serve:

Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Chicken Alternatives: Swap the grilled chicken for grilled turkey breast, roasted chicken, or even a vegetarian option like grilled portobello mushrooms for a delicious variation.
Cheese Alternatives: Swap mozzarella for provolone, cheddar, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Additional Veggies: Add other veggies like roasted red peppers, spinach, or arugula for extra flavor and crunch.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make this sandwich suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This sandwich is best served fresh. If you have leftovers, store the components separately (chicken, pesto, bread) in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Assemble and toast before eating.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken and cheese in a skillet or microwave, then assemble the sandwich with freshly toasted bread.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly in this recipe for convenience. However, homemade pesto can add a fresher, more vibrant flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165˚F. You can use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness.

Can I use a panini press instead of a grill?

Absolutely! A panini press will work great for grilling the chicken and toasting the bread. Just follow the same steps but use the press for both the chicken and bread.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

The sandwich is best enjoyed immediately after assembly, but you can prepare the chicken and pesto ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to make the sandwich.

Can I add more toppings to this sandwich?

Yes! You can add ingredients like avocado, pickles, or onions to add more flavor and texture to your sandwich.

Can I use other greens instead of alfalfa sprouts?

Yes, you can use spinach, arugula, or even lettuce as a replacement for the sprouts for a different flavor.

How can I make this sandwich spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the pesto, or layer in some spicy pickled peppers or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Can I make this sandwich without cheese?

Yes, you can leave the cheese out for a lighter version of the sandwich, or substitute with a dairy-free cheese if needed.

How do I grill the chicken without a grill?

You can use a grill pan or cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat if you don’t have access to a grill.

What kind of bread is best for this sandwich?

Hearty bread like sourdough, ciabatta, or a thick Italian bread works best because it can hold the fillings without getting soggy.

Conclusion

This Grilled Chicken Pesto Sandwich is the perfect combination of savory grilled chicken, creamy mozzarella, and fresh, vibrant pesto, all packed into crispy, toasted bread. It’s simple, quick, and bursting with flavor—perfect for lunch, dinner, or anytime you’re craving a satisfying sandwich. Make it your own with various toppings or cheese options, and enjoy the fresh, delicious taste!