Save It This pesto chicken melt brings Italian-inspired comfort right to your table with barely any fuss. Fresh herbaceous pesto, juicy shredded chicken and melted provolone all come together in crisp golden bread for a satisfying lunch or dinner. It is perfect when you crave something warming that does not require hours in the kitchen.
The first time I made these, everyone was circling the kitchen because the smell was almost impossible to resist. Now whenever I want to give my family a treat, this melt is a sure hit and honestly it often disappears before it even cools.
Ingredients
- Pesto: Brings brightness and punch so choose a fresh one with plenty of basil for real flavor
- Shredded cooked chicken: Soaks up pesto and keeps the sandwich juicy and hearty any rotisserie or home-roasted chicken is perfect
- Provolone cheese: Melts beautifully and keeps everything cohesive plus it pairs so well with herbs
- Ciabatta or sturdy bread: Gives the best crust and helps hold all the fillings without getting soggy try for bakery-fresh if possible
- Butter or neutral oil for grilling: Helps the bread become perfectly crisp and golden
Instructions
- Prepare the Sandwich:
- Spread your pesto generously onto your bread slices. Layer the shredded chicken over the pesto so it is evenly distributed. Lay provolone slices over the chicken. Close your sandwich and spread a thin layer of butter or oil onto the outside faces of the bread.
- Grill to Perfection:
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat so it is warm enough to crisp the bread but not too hot that it burns. Place the sandwiches in the pan with the buttered side down. Cook for three to four minutes per side pressing gently with a spatula so the cheese melts and the bread crisps up. Remove when golden brown and bubbling.
Save It Provolone is always my favorite ingredient in this and reminds me of my grandmother’s grilled cheese Sundays. The smell of melting cheese still fills the kitchen with nostalgia every time I make this melt.
Storage Tips
If you need to store leftovers wrap the cooled sandwich tightly and keep in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat use a dry skillet or toaster oven so the bread stays crisp instead of getting soggy in the microwave.
Ingredient Substitutions
Almost any melty cheese will work if you do not have provolone. Monterey Jack or mozzarella make great alternatives. For a nut free option just use a pesto made without pine nuts. Rotisserie chicken is ideal but any cooked chicken works well.
Serving Suggestions
Easy to pair with tomato soup or a crisp green salad for a simple balanced meal. I sometimes serve with a handful of olives or a few cherry tomatoes on the side for a touch of freshness.
Cultural and Historical Context
This sandwich combines classic Mediterranean flavors found in Northern Italy with simple American grilled cheese nostalgia. It is an easy way to experience a taste of Europe at home.
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap in sun dried tomato pesto during winter when basil is not as fresh. Use grilled vegetables as an add-in in summer for extra color and flavor. Try a slice of ripe tomato in late summer for a juicy twist.
Success Stories
Every time I serve these at family gatherings the platter is empty in minutes. Friends have asked for the recipe more times than I can count and it has definitely become a request for busy weekends.
Save It This is one of those dependable sandwiches I keep returning to — reliable comfort and a bit of indulgence in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best?
Ciabatta or sturdy artisan-style bread is ideal as it holds up well to grilling and keeps the fillings intact.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken blends well with pesto for a quick and flavorful filling.
- → Is there a vegetarian option?
Absolutely. Substitute vegan chicken and plant-based cheese for an easy vegetarian alternative.
- → How do I get a crispy, golden crust?
Spread butter or oil outside the bread slices before grilling in a preheated skillet for the best texture.
- → Can I make this nut-free?
Choose a nut-free pesto or make your own using seeds or extra herbs for a safe, delicious twist.