Description
This Panera Frontega Chicken Panini recipe delivers a savory and slightly spicy sandwich combining tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and mozzarella cheese on toasted ciabatta buns. A zesty chipotle mayo adds a flavorful kick, and the sandwich is perfectly pressed to give a crispy, melted finish, making it an ideal quick and satisfying meal for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Bread
- 4 ciabatta buns
Chicken
- 12 oz chicken (2 sliced chicken breasts or 1/2 a shredded rotisserie chicken)
Cheese
- 8 slices of mozzarella cheese
Vegetables
- 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 a red onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
Spicy Mayo
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 8 oz jar of diced chilis in adobo
Instructions
- Make the chipotle mayo: In a small bowl, combine the diced chilis in adobo and mayonnaise. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated, creating a flavorful spicy mayo base for the sandwich.
- Prepare the buns: Split the ciabatta buns in half and smear a generous amount of the prepared chipotle mayo onto one side of each bun to add creaminess and heat.
- Assemble the sandwich layers: On the mayo-coated side of the buns, layer the sliced or shredded chicken evenly, followed by slices of fresh Roma tomatoes, red onion, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella cheese slices. Top with the other half of the bun to close the sandwich.
- Grill the panini: Place two sandwiches at a time onto a preheated panini press. Close the press and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, allowing the bread to toast crisp and the mozzarella to melt beautifully.
- Serve: Carefully remove the paninis from the press, slice them in half for easier eating, and serve immediately while hot and melty.
Notes
- If you do not have a panini press, you can use a stovetop grill pan and press the sandwiches with a heavy skillet or foil-wrapped brick.
- Adjust the amount of chilis in adobo in the mayo to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Use freshly shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience and a juicy texture.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative.
- The sandwich can be prepped ahead and grilled just before serving to save time.
