Get ready to transform your ordinary sandwich game with a mouthwatering Chipotle Chicken Panini that will make your taste buds dance! This isn't just any sandwich - it's a flavor explosion that combines the smoky heat of chipotle, creamy avocado, and perfectly melted cheese, all nestled between crispy, golden ciabatta bread. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or an impressive meal that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices ciabatta bread
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup chipotle sauce
- 1/2 cup sliced cheese (e.g., pepper jack)
- 1/4 cup sliced avocado
- Butter for grilling
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 slices of ciabatta bread, 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken, 1/4 cup of chipotle sauce, 1/2 cup of sliced cheese (such as pepper jack), 1/4 cup of sliced avocado, and butter for grilling.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with the chipotle sauce. Stir until the chicken is well coated with the sauce, ensuring even distribution of flavor.
- Take two slices of ciabatta bread and lay them flat on a clean surface. On each slice, evenly distribute the chipotle chicken mixture, spreading it out to cover the bread.
- Next, place the sliced cheese on top of the chipotle chicken mixture on each slice. You can use pepper jack for a bit of heat or any cheese of your choice that melts well.
- Add the sliced avocado on top of the cheese, distributing it evenly to ensure each bite has a creamy texture.
- Top each sandwich with the remaining two slices of ciabatta bread to form a complete sandwich.
- Heat a skillet or pan over medium heat. While the pan is heating, spread a thin layer of butter on the outer sides of each ciabatta sandwich to promote even browning.
- Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the sandwiches in the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
- Using a spatula, gently flip the sandwiches over and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes, ensuring the cheese melts and the bread achieves a nice golden color.
- Once both sides are perfectly grilled, remove the sandwiches from the pan and let them cool for a minute before slicing them in half.
- Serve the Chipotle Chicken Panini warm, optionally with a side of chips or a salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose your cheese wisely: Pepper jack adds an extra kick, but feel free to experiment with different melting cheeses like provolone or monterey jack.
- Ensure your chicken is well-shredded and thoroughly coated with chipotle sauce for maximum flavor.
- Use room temperature butter for even, golden-brown grilling and crispy bread edges.
- Don't rush the grilling process - medium heat is key to achieving that perfect crispy exterior and melted interior.
- Let the panini rest for a minute after grilling to allow the cheese to set and prevent burning your mouth.
- If you don't have a panini press, use a heavy skillet and press down gently with a spatula for similar results.
- For extra indulgence, serve with a side of additional chipotle sauce or a cool, creamy dip to balance the heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 554kcal
Carbohydrates: 53g
Protein: g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
