Are you ready to elevate your sandwich game with a mind-blowing combination of crispy golden bread, melted cheese, and tender shredded chicken? This Grilled Cheese Chicken Panini is not just a sandwich - it's a culinary experience that will transform your lunch routine from boring to absolutely extraordinary! Imagine biting into a perfectly crisp exterior that gives way to gooey, melted cheddar and succulent chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by shredding the cooked chicken thoroughly and grating the cheddar cheese.
- Take the bread slices and lightly spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice to enhance the golden crispiness when grilled.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on the shredded chicken to season it evenly.
- Preheat a panini press or large skillet over medium heat. If using a skillet, ensure it's flat and can accommodate pressing the sandwich.
- Butter the exterior sides of each bread slice to create a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
- Place one slice of bread butter-side down on the heated surface.
- Layer the shredded chicken evenly across the bread slice, ensuring complete coverage.
- Generously spread the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken layer.
- Top with the second slice of bread, butter-side facing up.
- If using a panini press, close the lid and grill for 4-5 minutes until cheese melts and bread turns golden brown.
- If using a skillet, carefully press down with a spatula or use another heavy pan to create a pressing effect. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Remove from heat, let cool for 1-2 minutes, then slice diagonally and serve hot.
Tips
- Use day-old bread for extra crispiness - slightly stale bread actually grills better and provides a crunchier texture.
- For maximum flavor, season your chicken generously with salt, pepper, and optional herbs like dried thyme or oregano.
- Ensure your cheese is evenly distributed to guarantee that perfect melted cheese in every bite.
- If you don't have a panini press, a heavy cast-iron skillet works wonderfully - just use another pan to press down and create those beautiful grill marks.
- Let the sandwich rest for 1-2 minutes after cooking to allow the cheese to set and prevent burning your mouth.
- Experiment with cheese varieties like pepper jack or Swiss for different flavor profiles.
- For added moisture, consider a light spread of garlic aioli or pesto instead of plain mayonnaise.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 614kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 48g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 148mg
