Imagine biting into a crispy, golden sandwich that combines the classic comfort of grilled cheese with the vibrant flavors of a Caprese salad, elevated with tender shredded chicken. This isn't just another sandwich – it's a culinary journey that transforms ordinary lunch into an extraordinary Italian-inspired experience. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your friends and family with a recipe that's both simple to make and incredibly delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp butter
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 4 slices of your favorite bread, 1 cup of sliced mozzarella cheese, 1 tomato sliced into rounds, 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken, fresh basil leaves, 2 tablespoons of butter, and balsamic glaze for drizzling.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. This will ensure that the bread gets crispy and the cheese melts perfectly.
- While the skillet is heating, take two slices of bread and spread 1 tablespoon of butter on one side of each slice. This will create a golden, crispy exterior when grilled.
- On the unbuttered side of one slice, layer half of the mozzarella cheese, followed by a layer of sliced tomatoes, shredded chicken, and fresh basil leaves. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out, creating a sandwich. Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients to make a second sandwich.
- Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt.
- Using a spatula, carefully flip the sandwiches over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Once cooked, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them sit for a minute to cool slightly.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of the sandwiches for added flavor before slicing them in half.
- Serve the Caprese Grilled Cheese Sandwiches warm with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose the right bread: Use a sturdy, thick-cut bread like sourdough or artisan white bread that can withstand the moisture from tomatoes and hold up to grilling.
- Room temperature ingredients: Let your cheese and butter sit at room temperature for easier spreading and more even melting.
- Don't rush the grilling: Keep the heat at medium to ensure the bread turns golden brown and crispy while the cheese melts completely.
- Fresh is best: Use fresh mozzarella and basil leaves for the most authentic and vibrant flavor profile.
- Balsamic glaze tip: If you don't have store-bought balsamic glaze, you can easily make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until it becomes thick and syrupy.
- Precooked chicken hack: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to save time without compromising on flavor.
- For extra crispiness, press down gently on the sandwich with a spatula while grilling to ensure even browning and melting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
