The Ultimate BLT Chicken Panini: A Recipe for Sandwich Perfection

Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with this incredible BLT Chicken Panini! Combining the classic flavors of a BLT with juicy grilled chicken and perfectly pressed panini bread, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, customizable to your preferences, and perfect for a quick lunch, satisfying dinner, or even a picnic. Forget boring sandwiches – this BLT Chicken Panini is about to become your new go-to!

## Why This BLT Chicken Panini Recipe Works

This isn’t just any sandwich; it’s a carefully crafted flavor explosion. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

* **Flavor Combination:** The salty bacon, ripe tomato, crisp lettuce, and savory chicken create a symphony of flavors that complement each other perfectly.
* **Texture Contrast:** The crispiness of the bacon and panini bread contrasts beautifully with the soft tomato and juicy chicken, making each bite a delight.
* **Easy to Customize:** Don’t like a particular ingredient? No problem! This recipe is flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste.
* **Quick and Easy:** From start to finish, this panini can be on your plate in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether you’re packing a lunch, hosting a casual gathering, or simply craving a delicious sandwich, this BLT Chicken Panini is always a good choice.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather your ingredients. Here’s a comprehensive list:

* **Chicken Breasts:** 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each). Look for chicken breasts that are relatively uniform in thickness for even cooking.
* **Bacon:** 6-8 slices of your favorite bacon. Thick-cut bacon adds extra flavor and texture.
* **Panini Bread:** 4 slices of panini bread or ciabatta bread. Choose bread that’s sturdy enough to hold the fillings and withstand the pressing process. Sourdough bread also works well.
* **Tomatoes:** 1-2 ripe tomatoes, sliced. Use tomatoes that are firm but juicy for the best flavor.
* **Lettuce:** 4-6 large leaves of crisp lettuce, such as Romaine or Iceberg. Wash and thoroughly dry the lettuce before using it.
* **Mayonnaise:** 2-3 tablespoons of mayonnaise. Use your favorite brand or make your own.
* **Dijon Mustard:** 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard (optional, but highly recommended!). Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick that complements the other flavors.
* **Olive Oil:** 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Used for grilling the chicken.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Season the chicken and the tomatoes with salt and pepper.
* **Optional Add-ins:** Avocado slices, provolone cheese, pepper jack cheese, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill:** For cooking the chicken.
* **Panini Press:** For pressing the sandwiches. If you don’t have a panini press, you can use a heavy skillet and a weight (such as a cast-iron skillet or a brick wrapped in foil).
* **Knife:** For slicing the tomatoes and lettuce.
* **Cutting Board:** For preparing the ingredients.
* **Small Bowls:** For mixing the mayonnaise and mustard (if using).
* **Tongs:** For handling the chicken and bacon.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect BLT Chicken Panini:

**1. Prepare the Chicken:**

* Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown properly.
* Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
* Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
* Brush the grill with olive oil to prevent sticking.
* Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
* Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
* Slice the chicken breasts thinly.

**2. Cook the Bacon:**

* Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. You can also cook the bacon in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave according to package directions.
* Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
* Break the bacon slices in half (or leave them whole, depending on your preference).

**3. Prepare the Sauce (Optional):**

* In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard (if using). Mix well.

**4. Assemble the Paninis:**

* Spread the mayonnaise (or the mayonnaise-mustard mixture) on one side of each slice of bread.
* On two slices of bread, layer the sliced chicken, bacon, tomato slices, and lettuce.
* Top with the remaining slices of bread, mayonnaise-side down.

**5. Press the Paninis:**

* Preheat your panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
* Place the assembled paninis on the panini press.
* Press for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese (if using) is melted and gooey. Adjust the pressing time based on your panini press and desired level of crispness.
* If you don’t have a panini press, you can use a heavy skillet. Place the paninis in the skillet and press down with another heavy skillet or a brick wrapped in foil. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.

**6. Serve and Enjoy:**

* Carefully remove the paninis from the panini press or skillet.
* Cut the paninis in half diagonally.
* Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious BLT Chicken Panini!

## Tips for the Perfect BLT Chicken Panini

* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The better the ingredients, the better the panini will taste. Choose fresh, ripe tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and flavorful bacon.
* **Don’t Overcook the Chicken:** Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
* **Crispy Bacon is Key:** Crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch to the panini. Be sure to cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy.
* **Don’t Overfill the Paninis:** Overfilling the paninis will make them difficult to press and can cause the fillings to spill out.
* **Adjust the Seasoning:** Taste the tomatoes and chicken before assembling the paninis and adjust the seasoning as needed.
* **Experiment with Different Cheeses:** Provolone, pepper jack, and mozzarella are all great options for this panini. Experiment to find your favorite.
* **Add a Spread:** Pesto, sun-dried tomato pesto, or even a simple garlic aioli can add extra flavor to your panini.
* **Warm the Bread:** If your bread is a little stale, you can warm it up slightly in the oven or toaster before assembling the paninis. This will help to soften it and make it more pliable.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** This ensures the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature and prevents overcooking.
* **Let the Chicken Rest:** Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

## Variations and Add-ins

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ideas for variations and add-ins to make it your own:

* **Avocado:** Add sliced avocado for a creamy and healthy twist.
* **Cheese:** Try different cheeses like provolone, mozzarella, or pepper jack for added flavor.
* **Spicy Mayo:** Mix a little sriracha or chili garlic sauce into the mayonnaise for a spicy kick.
* **Pesto:** Spread a layer of pesto on the bread for an herbaceous flavor.
* **Sun-Dried Tomatoes:** Add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of intense flavor.
* **Roasted Red Peppers:** Add roasted red peppers for a sweet and smoky flavor.
* **Caramelized Onions:** Add caramelized onions for a sweet and savory flavor.
* **Turkey:** Substitute the chicken with sliced turkey for a lighter option.
* **Vegetarian:** Replace the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
* **Different Breads:** Experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough, focaccia, or even a baguette.

## Serving Suggestions

This BLT Chicken Panini is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with a side dish. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad or a Caesar salad is a refreshing complement to the panini.
* **Potato Chips:** Classic potato chips are always a good choice.
* **Sweet Potato Fries:** Sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness and are a healthier alternative to regular fries.
* **Coleslaw:** Creamy coleslaw is a classic pairing with sandwiches.
* **Fruit Salad:** A light and refreshing fruit salad is a perfect way to end the meal.
* **Soup:** Pair the panini with a cup of tomato soup or creamy vegetable soup for a comforting and satisfying meal.

## Make-Ahead Tips

While this panini is best served fresh, you can do some prep work ahead of time to save time later:

* **Cook the Chicken and Bacon:** You can cook the chicken and bacon ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Slice the Tomatoes and Lettuce:** You can slice the tomatoes and lettuce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator in airtight containers. However, it’s best to do this as close to serving time as possible to prevent them from becoming soggy.
* **Prepare the Sauce:** You can prepare the mayonnaise mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

## Storage Instructions

Leftover BLT Chicken Paninis can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the bread may become soggy, so it’s best to eat them as soon as possible. To reheat, you can press them in a panini press or toast them in a toaster oven.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 500-700 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
* Protein: 40-50 grams
* Fat: 25-40 grams
* Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams

## Conclusion

The BLT Chicken Panini is a delicious and satisfying sandwich that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, follow these instructions, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate BLT Chicken Panini! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and add-ins to create your own unique masterpiece. Happy cooking!

Enjoy your BLT Chicken Panini! Let us know in the comments below how you liked this recipe and share your own variations. We love hearing from you!