Chicken Caprese Sandwich Recipe

Prepare chicken

If the chicken breasts are thick, butterfly each or pound to an even 1/2-inch thickness between plastic wrap. Pat dry with paper towels.

Season chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano.

Optional quick marinade

If using the Quick Pan Marinade, combine lemon juice, minced garlic, and extra virgin olive oil in a shallow dish. Add the seasoned chicken and let sit 10–15 minutes at room temperature to pick up flavor.

Cook chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When shimmering, add the chicken and cook undisturbed 4–5 minutes until golden. Flip and cook another 4–5 minutes until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a cutting board and let rest 5 minutes, then slice crosswise into 1/4-inch slices.

Prepare bread

Slice the ciabatta rolls horizontally. If toasting, heat a separate skillet over medium, spread butter and a little olive oil on cut sides, and toast cut sides 1–2 minutes until golden and crisp.

Assemble sandwiches

Spread about 1 tablespoon mayonnaise on the bottom half of each roll. Layer sliced chicken evenly over the mayo. Top chicken with 3 oz fresh mozzarella (sliced or torn), then 3–4 slices of tomato per sandwich, and 4 basil leaves. Add a small handful (about 1/2 cup) arugula if using. Drizzle 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze over the ingredients on each sandwich.

Finish

Place the top half of the roll over the sandwich, press gently, slice in half if desired, and serve immediately while chicken is warm and mozzarella slightly melty.

Whisk lemon juice, minced garlic and extra virgin olive oil together and pour over seasoned chicken in a shallow dish. Turn to coat both sides. Let rest 10–15 minutes at room temperature, then proceed to cook as directed.

Melt butter with olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add cut-side down bread and toast 1–2 minutes until golden and crisp, watching carefully so it doesn't burn.