Description
Indulge in the bold and smoky flavors of the Chipotle Chicken Panini Panera, an irresistible sandwich that combines grilled chicken, creamy chipotle mayo, and melted cheddar cheese between perfectly toasted slices of sturdy bread. This quick-to-make panini is ideal for lunch or dinner and can be easily customized to suit your personal taste. The combination of tangy lime juice, spicy chipotle pepper, and savory turkey bacon creates a delightful experience with every bite. Perfect for meal prep or easy weeknight dinners, this gourmet sandwich brings the essence of restaurant-style dining right into your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 chicken breast
- 4 slices thick-cut turkey bacon
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices sturdy bread (sourdough or focaccia)
- Chipotle mayo (made with 1 egg yolk, ¼ cup neutral-flavored oil, 2 tsp lime juice, 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp honey, 1 tsp kosher salt, ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper)
Instructions
- Prepare the chipotle mayo by whisking together egg yolk, Dijon mustard, lime juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Gradually add oil while whisking until emulsified. Stir in smoked paprika and chopped chipotle.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat until cooked through (4–5 minutes per side). Slice if needed.
- Butter one side of each bread slice; spread chipotle mayo on the other side. Layer cheese, chicken, turkey bacon, tomato slices, more cheese, then top with another slice of bread (mayo side in).
- Heat a skillet or panini press over medium heat and grill the sandwich until golden brown and cheese is melted (3–5 minutes per side).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 panini (230g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: Feel free to substitute grilled turkey or beef for different protein options. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or avocado for additional flavor and nutrition. Let the panini rest for a minute before slicing to keep the fillings intact.