If you’re looking for a tasty and easy lunch option, the Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich is a perfect choice! Packed with flavor from the fresh basil and garlic, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s a great way to enjoy chicken in a new and delicious way.
Why Make This Recipe
Making a Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich is a fantastic choice for many reasons. First, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it great for busy days. Second, it uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Lastly, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the fresh taste of basil, paired with tender chicken and creamy mayo. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic!
How to Make Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich
Making your Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich at home is simple. Just follow these easy steps.
Ingredients
- 2 (12.5-ounce) cans premium chunk chicken breast (about 2 cups shredded chicken)
- ¼ cup low-fat mayonnaise
- 1 cup fresh basil
- 1 clove garlic
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hoagie rolls (or bread of choice)
- Tomatoes
- Spinach
- Sliced mozzarella cheese
Directions
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the 2 cans of premium chunk chicken breast with ¼ cup of low-fat mayonnaise. Mix until well combined.
- In a food processor, pulse together 1 cup of fresh basil, 1 clove of garlic, ¼ cup of grated parmesan, and 2 ½ tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the pesto sauce to the chicken mixture and mix until everything is fully combined.
- Assemble your sandwich on hoagie rolls or your preferred bread. Top with any desired toppings, such as tomatoes, spinach, and sliced mozzarella cheese, and enjoy!
How to Serve Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich
You can serve your Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich warm or cold. It pairs nicely with a simple side salad or some crispy chips. For an extra touch, try toasting the hoagie roll before adding the filling to make the sandwich even more enjoyable!
How to Store Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich
If you have leftovers, store the chicken mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat again, you can make a fresh sandwich using new bread and toppings. Avoid assembling the whole sandwich until you’re ready to enjoy it to keep the bread from getting soggy.
Tips to Make Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich
- You can use grilled chicken instead of canned chicken for a different flavor and texture.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and parmesan in the pesto to suit your taste.
- Adding avocados or roasted red peppers can give the sandwich an extra layer of flavor.
Variation
For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with chickpeas for a protein-packed alternative, while still using the delicious pesto.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
Yes, you can use dried basil. However, fresh basil gives a much brighter flavor!
2. Can I freeze the pesto chicken mixture?
Yes, you can freeze it. Store it in an airtight container, and it should keep for about a month.
3. Is there a gluten-free option for the hoagie rolls?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free bread or wraps to make this sandwich suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients
For the chicken mixture
- 2 cans 2 (12.5-ounce) cans premium chunk chicken breast About 2 cups shredded chicken
- ¼ cup low-fat mayonnaise
For the pesto sauce
- 1 cup fresh basil Fresh basil leaves
- 1 clove garlic Minced
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- to taste Salt and pepper
For assembly
- Hoagie rolls (or bread of choice) Your preferred type of bread
- Tomatoes Sliced for topping
- Spinach Fresh leaves for topping
- Sliced mozzarella cheese For topping
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the 2 cans of premium chunk chicken breast with ¼ cup of low-fat mayonnaise. Mix until well combined.
- In a food processor, pulse together the fresh basil, garlic, grated parmesan, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the pesto sauce to the chicken mixture and mix until everything is fully combined.
- Assemble your sandwich on hoagie rolls or your preferred bread. Add desired toppings, such as tomatoes, spinach, and sliced mozzarella cheese.
