Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Pesto, pomodoro sauce, mozzarella cheese, chicken breast.
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Ingredients
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Sandwich
Method
Sandwich
Prepare chicken
Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) using a meat mallet or rolling pin between plastic wrap. Season both sides with 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder.
Set up breading station
Place the 1/2 cup flour in a shallow dish. Beat the egg in a second shallow dish. In a third dish mix 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan.
Bread the chicken
Dredge each seasoned chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten egg, then press into the panko-Parmesan mixture to coat evenly on both sides.
Pan-fry chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If the crust darkens too fast, reduce heat to medium-low. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and tent with foil to rest 5 minutes.
Warm pomodoro sauce
While chicken rests, warm 1/2 cup pomodoro sauce in a small saucepan over low heat until gently simmering, about 3-4 minutes. Keep warm.
Assemble sandwiches
Split ciabatta rolls and lightly toast cut sides in a hot dry skillet or oven broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden. Spread about 2 tablespoons basil pesto on the bottom half of each roll. Place the breaded chicken breast on top of the pesto. Spoon 1/4 cup warmed pomodoro sauce over each chicken breast.
Add mozzarella and basil
Top each chicken breast with 3 oz (half of 6 oz total) fresh mozzarella, tearing or slicing so it covers the chicken. Add 4 fresh basil leaves per sandwich and a small handful (about 1/2 cup) arugula if using.
Melt cheese (optional)
If you prefer the mozzarella melted, place assembled open sandwiches under a broiler or in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 2-3 minutes until cheese softens and begins to melt. Watch closely to avoid burning the bread.
Finish and serve
Place the top roll half on each sandwich and press gently. Serve immediately with any remaining pomodoro sauce for dipping.