Chicken Panini Recipe

Whole grain or sourdough bread: Provides a sturdy base and adds a hearty flavor to the panini.

Shredded cooked chicken: Adds protein and a savory taste to the sandwich.

Provolone or your choice cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.

Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and a slight tang to the sandwich.

Mustard: Provides a sharp, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the mayonnaise.

Fresh spinach: Adds a fresh, leafy element and a boost of nutrients.

To enhance the flavor of your chicken panini, consider marinating the shredded cooked chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before assembling the sandwich. This will infuse the chicken with additional layers of taste, making your panini even more delicious.

• whole grain or sourdough bread - Substitute with ciabatta bread: Ciabatta has a similar texture and can hold up well when pressed in a panini maker.

• whole grain or sourdough bread - Substitute with gluten-free bread: For those with gluten intolerance, gluten-free bread is a suitable alternative that still provides a good base for the panini.

• shredded cooked chicken - Substitute with shredded turkey: Turkey has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a good alternative to chicken.

• shredded cooked chicken - Substitute with tofu: For a vegetarian option, tofu can be seasoned and cooked to mimic the texture and flavor of chicken.

• provolone - Substitute with mozzarella: Mozzarella melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• provolone - Substitute with cheddar: Cheddar provides a sharper flavor and melts nicely, adding a different but delicious taste to the panini.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a similar creamy texture with fewer calories and added protein.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with avocado spread: Avocado spread provides a creamy texture and healthy fats, making it a nutritious alternative.

• mustard - Substitute with honey mustard: Honey mustard adds a touch of sweetness while maintaining the tangy flavor of regular mustard.

• mustard - Substitute with pesto: Pesto offers a different flavor profile with its blend of basil, garlic, and pine nuts, adding a fresh taste to the panini.

• fresh spinach - Substitute with arugula: Arugula has a peppery flavor that can add a bit of a kick to the panini.

• fresh spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale provides a similar texture and nutritional benefits, making it a good alternative to spinach.

• Allow the chicken panini to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the bread soggy.
• Wrap each sandwich individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent the ingredients from drying out.
• Place the wrapped paninis in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This adds an extra layer of protection against moisture and freezer burn.
• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of how long the paninis have been stored.
• Store the paninis in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer where they can last up to 2 months.
• To reheat refrigerated paninis, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
• For frozen paninis, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until fully heated through.
• If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat the paninis directly from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
• Avoid using the microwave to reheat, as it can make the bread chewy and the spinach wilted.
• For an extra crispy texture, you can reheat the paninis in a panini press or on a stovetop grill pan for a few minutes on each side.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap the chicken panini in aluminum foil to keep it from drying out. Place it on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.

• Use a skillet on medium heat. Place the panini in the skillet and cover it with a lid. Heat for about 3-5 minutes on each side, pressing down with a spatula to ensure even heating. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the bread.

• If you have a toaster oven, set it to 350°F. Place the panini directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden.

• For a quick option, use a microwave. Place the panini on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. Note that this method may not keep the bread as crispy.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F. Place the panini in the basket and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method will help keep the bread crispy while ensuring the chicken and cheese are heated through.

• Panini press: A specialized grill that presses and toasts the sandwich, ensuring even cooking and a crispy exterior.

• Knife: Used to slice the bread and cut the sandwich in half after cooking.

• Cutting board: A flat surface to safely prepare and assemble the sandwich ingredients.

• Spatula: Handy for lifting the sandwich off the panini press without burning your fingers.

• Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the mayonnaise and mustard.

• Mixing bowl: Useful if you need to mix the shredded chicken with any additional seasonings before assembling the sandwich.

• Plate: To serve the finished panini once it’s cooked and sliced.

Pre-cook the chicken: Use shredded cooked chicken from a previous meal or store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.

Assemble ingredients ahead: Prepare and layer the cheese, spinach, and condiments on the bread the night before.

Use a panini press: A panini press cooks both sides of the sandwich simultaneously, cutting down on cooking time.

Preheat the press: Ensure your panini press is fully preheated before placing the sandwich to reduce cooking time.

Multi-task: While the panini is cooking, clean up the prep area or prepare a side dish.