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If your go-to sandwich order is starting to feel a little predictable, this chicken apple pesto sandwich is the kind of upgrade that will keep your workweek lunches interesting. It hits that perfect balance of fresh and cozy — the kind of hearty sandwich you’d expect from a really good sub shop, but made right at home.
Layered on soft, crusty Italian bread, this sandwich brings together pesto, melty sharp cheddar cheese, thinly sliced crisp apples, fresh spinach, and tender sliced chicken. Each bite is a mix of savory, sweet, creamy, and crunchy, with the pesto tying everything together in the best way.
It makes the perfect lunch, a casual dinner on a busy weeknight or is great for picnicking or patio parties.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Chicken Pesto Sandwich
- Feels elevated, but easy! One bite of this sandwich and it will feel like your favorite sub shop is in your kitchen. We’re taking a simple chicken sandwich and elevating it a bit with the flavor and textures without the stress.
- Great for lunch or dinner! If you’re looking for a quick lunch or a casual dinner option, a sandwich is a good place to start.
- There’s magic in the layers! What takes a sandwich from good to great, is the texture and flavor in the layers. You get the nutty herby flavor of the pesto with the sweet crunch of the apple and the savory grilled chicken and melty cheese in each bite. It’s so delish!
Ingredient You’ll Need
- Sliced roasted chicken breast
- Spinach
- Pesto sauce
- Cheddar cheese
- Honey crisp apples
- Italian Sourdough
How to Make Chicken Apple Pesto Sandwiches, Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat oven for toasting and prep baking sheet.
Start by preheating your oven to 400ºF. After you assemble the sandwiches, you’ll pop them in the oven to toast and melt the cheese. Line a baking sheet with some parchment paper and set it to the side until you’re ready to use.
Step 2. Assemble and toast sandwiches. Slice the loaf into smaller sandwiches.
You will make one large sandwich before you slice it into smaller individual portions.
Start by slicing the large loaf of bread in half lengthwise and fold it open so both insides are facing up.
Next. spread pesto in a thin layer on each sandwich half. Next, top with thin slices of apple and several pieces of cheddar cheese. Place the two halves face-up on a baking sheet and toast for 5-10 minutes.
Once the cheese is melted, remove from the oven and top the bottom sandwich half with sliced chicken and spinach. Top the sandwich with the other half and gently press to meld the sandwich together.
Slice the larch sandwich loaf into 4-6 smaller sandwiches and serve!!
What is in pesto sauce?
Pesto sauce is an nutty and herby Italian sauce that is made by blending fresh basil leaves, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic cloves, salt and pepper, and olive oil in a food processor until a thick paste forms. Some variations even use parsley or sun-dried tomatoes.
It is such a versatile ingredient and can be use in so many ways. It can add a punch of flavor and color to sandwiches, dinner rolls and pasta recipes.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Of course! No need to make homemade pesto unless you have the time. There are some delicious premade pestos
What is the best bread to use for a pesto chicken sandwich?
If you want to instantly elevate any sandwich, choose a good-quality bread. Avoid the sandwich loaf aisle and head straight to the bakery. of your slices, the texture and density of the bread, and the crust. Here are some of our favorites:
- Italian sourdough loaf
- Italian semolina bread
- Ciabatta buns
- French loaf
Other cheese pairings that work with chicken pesto sandwiches:
You want a cheese that is going to pair well with the apples, herbs, and chicken. If you’re experimenting with flavors or have these on hand, these cheeses will work too:
- Gouda
- Provolone
- Parmesan cheese
How to store sandwiches for meal prepping
Wrap each sandwich tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap before storing in an airtight container. Either store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
How to reheat sandwiches for meal prepping
You can reheat these sandwiches a couple of different ways. Reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or on a cookie sheet in a preheated 350ºF oven for 8-10 minutes.
More Easy Lunch Recipes for Meal Prepping:
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Apple Chicken Pesto Sandwich
Description
Layered on soft, crusty Italian bread, this sandwich brings together pesto, melty sharp cheddar cheese, thinly sliced crisp apples, fresh spinach, and tender sliced chicken.
Ingredients
- 12 oz sliced chicken meat
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 3 oz pesto sauce
- 6 oz sliced white cheddar cheese
- 1 Honey Crisp apple, thinly sliced
- 1 Italian Semolina or Italian sourdough loaf
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400ºF.
- Slice loaf in half lengthwise. Spread pesto on each half of the sandwich. Place sliced apples on one half and then top both halves with cheese slices. Place bread slices face-up on a baking sheet and place in oven for 5-10 minutes to melt cheese.
- Remove from oven and add spinach and sliced chicken the bottom half of the sandwich. Place top slice on top and gently press to meld the sandwich together. You should have one large sandwich at this point. Slice into 4-5 smaller pieces and serve.
