MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Name: MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 large thick slices of bread; 1.5 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1/3 cup – 1/2 cup basil pesto; 5oz fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced; 8 sun-dried tomatoes, patted dry; Butter, as needed

Posted on October 28, 2025

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Chicken and Pesto makes the ULTIMATE grilled cheese sandwich combo. The MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich is not only flavorful but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a quick dinner, this sandwich features juicy chicken enveloped in homemade basil pesto, complemented by sun-dried tomatoes and gooey mozzarella. With its rich flavors and delightful textures, it’s sure to impress at any gathering or serve as a comforting meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavors: The combination of chicken, pesto, and mozzarella creates a mouthwatering experience that you won’t forget.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weekdays or spontaneous lunch cravings.
Versatile Meal Option: Ideal for brunch, leftovers, or a quick weeknight dinner; it fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Great for sharing with family and friends – everyone will want a bite!
Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday ingredients that are easy to find, making it accessible for all cooks.

Tools and Preparation

To make the MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

Skillet or frying pan
Mixing bowl
Butter knife
Spatula

Why These Tools Matter

Skillet or frying pan: Ideal for achieving the perfect golden crust while melting the cheese uniformly.
Mixing bowl: Useful for combining your chicken and pesto quickly without mess.
Butter knife: Ensures even butter distribution on your bread for optimal crispiness.
Spatula: Helps flip the sandwich easily without losing any delicious filling.

Ingredients

For the Sandwich

4 large thick slices of Bread ((see notes))
1.5 cups / 150g / 5oz Shredded Cooked Chicken
1/3 cup – 1/2 cup (80-120g) Basil Pesto ((see notes))
5oz / 150g ball of Fresh Mozzarella, (thinly sliced and patted dry to remove moisture)
8 Sun Dried Tomatoes, (patted dry to remove excess oil)
Butter, (as needed)

How to Make MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Pesto Mixture

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with basil pesto until well mixed. Set aside while you prepare the bread.

Step 2: Assemble Your Sandwich

Place two slices of bread in a skillet with the heat OFF.
Spread butter evenly on both slices of bread.
Flip the bread so both sides are buttered down.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients

Add half of the sliced mozzarella on top of one slice of bread.
Next, spoon on the chicken and pesto mixture evenly over the cheese.
Add the sun-dried tomatoes on top of the chicken layer.
Finish by adding the remaining mozzarella slices followed by another slice of buttered bread on top.

Step 4: Cook Until Golden Brown

Turn on the heat to low-medium.
Fry each side gently until golden brown and crispy while ensuring that the mozzarella melts completely.
Once cooked, slice your sandwich in half and enjoy!

This MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich is sure to be a hit! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

How to Serve MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Serving your MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich can elevate the experience even further. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with sides, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With a Side Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich sandwich.
Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing, croutons, and parmesan adds a classic touch that complements the sandwich beautifully.

With Dipping Sauces

Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle this over your sandwich for a tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors.
Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic dip enhances the overall taste and adds a gourmet flair to each bite.

With Chips or Crisps

Potato Chips: The crunch of classic potato chips adds texture and saltiness that balances the gooeyness of the cheese.
Pita Chips: These offer a slightly healthier option while still providing a satisfying crunch alongside your sandwich.

How to Perfect MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Perfecting your MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out great every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh mozzarella and homemade pesto if possible. This will enhance the flavor significantly.
Pat Dry Ingredients: Be sure to pat dry both sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella. This prevents excess moisture from making your sandwich soggy.
Butter Generously: Apply enough butter on the bread surfaces. This ensures a golden, crispy crust that is irresistible.
Cook Low and Slow: Keeping the heat low allows the cheese to melt thoroughly without burning the bread.
Experiment with Bread Types: Different breads can create unique textures; consider sourdough or ciabatta for added flavor.
Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate spinach or arugula into the filling for an extra boost of nutrients and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Pairing side dishes with your MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

Tomato Soup: A classic pairing that provides warmth and complements the flavors of pesto and cheese perfectly.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, creating a delightful contrast with the savory sandwich.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings freshness and acidity, balancing out the richness of your grilled cheese.
Cucumber Salad: Lightly seasoned cucumber salad is refreshing and provides a crisp texture that pairs well with melted cheese.
Pickles or Gherkins: Their tangy flavor cuts through the richness of the sandwich, adding an exciting burst of taste.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition while complementing the flavors of chicken and pesto.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Using dry bread: Dry bread can lead to a less enjoyable texture. Opt for fresh, thick slices of bread for a better grip and flavor.
Overloading with pesto: While pesto is delicious, too much can overwhelm the other flavors. Use just enough to coat the chicken without making it soggy.
Not patting dry ingredients: Excess moisture from the mozzarella or sun-dried tomatoes can make your sandwich soggy. Always pat them dry before using.
Cooking on high heat: High heat can burn the bread before the cheese melts. Cook on low to medium heat for an evenly golden finish.
Skipping butter on both sides: Buttering only one side can lead to uneven crispiness. Spread butter on both sides of the bread for a perfect crunch.

Refrigerator Storage

Keep leftover sandwiches in an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing in a freezer-safe bag.
Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality.

Reheating MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds, then flip and heat for another 30 seconds. Note that this may soften the bread.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium-low heat, cover, and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bread for MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich?

Sourdough or thick-cut artisan bread works best due to their sturdiness and flavor.

Can I customize my MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

How do I ensure my cheese melts perfectly?

Use fresh mozzarella and cook on low heat, allowing ample time for melting without burning the bread.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it, refrigerate it, then reheat when ready to enjoy.

Conclusion

The MEGA Chicken Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients to suit your taste. Give it a try for lunch or brunch; you won’t be disappointed!