Chipotle Chicken Panini Panera

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, this Chipotle Chicken Panini Panera is just the ticket! It’s a delightful combination of smoky flavors, juicy chicken, and melty cheese, all pressed between golden bread. This sandwich has become a favorite in my home because it’s not only quick to prepare but also perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch with friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

The best part? You can easily customize this panini to suit your taste. It’s an excellent way to use up leftover chicken or to impress guests at your next gathering. Each bite is filled with flavor, making it a guaranteed hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This panini comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The smoky chipotle mayo adds a unique twist that elevates this sandwich above the rest.
• Family-Friendly: It’s packed with ingredients that kids and adults alike will enjoy—who doesn’t love grilled cheese?
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep the chipotle mayo and grill the chicken in advance for an even quicker assembly later on!
• Versatile Ingredients: With simple ingredients, you can easily swap out items based on what you have at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create the magic of this panini. You likely have many of these items in your pantry already! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chipotle Mayo

• 1 egg yolk
• ¼ cup neutral-flavored oil (vegetable or canola)
• 2 tsp lime juice
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

For the Sandwich

• 1 chicken breast, sliced in half horizontally (for quicker cooking)
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crisp
• 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 beefsteak tomato, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 4 slices sturdy bread (French, focaccia, or sourdough, ½-inch thick)
• Softened butter (for grilling)

Variations

This recipe is super flexible and can be adapted to fit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or grilled vegetables if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Change the cheese: Pepper jack cheese can add a nice kick if you like it spicy!
• Add more veggies: Spinach or avocado slices can add freshness and creaminess.
• Make it meat-free: Skip the bacon entirely or substitute with crispy tempeh for a vegetarian delight.

How to Make Chipotle Chicken Panini Panera

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, Dijon mustard, lime juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This creamy base is essential because it brings all those flavors together while adding richness to your panini. Next, drizzle in the oil slowly while whisking continuously until the mixture emulsifies into a creamy sauce. Stir in smoked paprika and finely chopped chipotle pepper—this will give your mayo that smoky kick!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season your chicken breast lightly with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear it over medium heat until fully cooked through—about 4–5 minutes per side should do. Cooking the chicken this way keeps it juicy and tender. Once done, slice if necessary so that it fits perfectly in your sandwich.

Step 3: Assemble the Panini

Butter one side of each slice of bread; this will give us that beautiful golden crust when grilling. Spread a generous amount of chipotle mayo on the other side of each slice. Now it’s time to layer! Start with one piece of bread (mayo side down), add cheddar cheese followed by the grilled chicken, bacon strips, tomato slices, and more cheddar cheese before topping with another piece of bread (mayo side down).

Step 4: Grill Your Panini

Heat up your skillet or panini press over medium heat. Place your assembled sandwich onto it and press down gently. Grill until the bread is golden brown and crispy while the cheese melts—around 3–5 minutes per side if using a skillet or 4–6 minutes in a press. This step is so important because it melds all those wonderful flavors together while creating that satisfying crunch!

Step 5: Serve Up Your Creation

Once grilled to perfection, slice your panini in half and serve hot! Don’t forget to offer extra chipotle mayo on the side—it makes for an irresistible dipping sauce!

Enjoy every bite of this Chipotle Chicken Panini Panera; I promise it’s going to be your new go-to recipe!

Pro Tips for Making Chipotle Chicken Panini Panera

Making the perfect Chipotle Chicken Panini is all about the details—follow these tips to elevate your sandwich game!

• Use fresh ingredients: High-quality chicken, ripe tomatoes, and fresh bread make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients not only enhance taste but also provide a satisfying crunch and juiciness.
• Let the flavors meld: Allow the chipotle mayo to sit for at least 10 minutes before spreading it on the bread. This resting time allows the flavors to blend beautifully, resulting in a richer taste.
• Don’t rush the grilling: Cook your panini over medium heat to ensure that the bread gets golden and crispy while allowing the cheese to melt perfectly. Patience is key; rushing can leave you with unevenly cooked sandwiches.
• Experiment with cheeses: While sharp cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix things up by using pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile. Different cheeses can add unique tastes and creaminess to your panini.
• Press evenly: If using a skillet, press down gently on the sandwich with a spatula to ensure even cooking and melting. This helps achieve a uniformly toasted exterior and ensures every bite has that delightful crunch.

How to Serve Chipotle Chicken Panini Panera

Serving your Chipotle Chicken Panini is just as important as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create an inviting meal that everyone will love.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the smoky flavors of the sandwich.
• Lime wedges: Adding lime wedges not only enhances presentation but also gives diners an option to squeeze some zesty goodness over their panini.

Side Dishes

• Crispy sweet potato fries: These sweet and savory fries offer a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy panini.
• Garden salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the sandwich.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide earthy flavors and a colorful addition to your plate, making for a wholesome meal.
• Chips or tortilla strips: For a crunchy contrast, serve with tortilla chips or homemade tortilla strips that add extra texture and fun to your dining experience.

Enjoy this flavorful journey with your Chipotle Chicken Panini! Whether you’re preparing it for lunch or dinner, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chipotle Chicken Panini is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make the chipotle mayo in advance and have all your ingredients ready to go, making it easy to whip up a flavorful sandwich when you’re short on time.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover panini in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Wrap individual sandwiches in parchment paper or foil for easy grab-and-go meals.

Freezing

• Assemble the sandwiches without grilling them.
• Wrap each ungrilled sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, pressing down gently until warmed through and the cheese is melted (about 5-7 minutes).
• Alternatively, use a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making the Chipotle Chicken Panini Panera:

Can I use different types of bread for the Chipotle Chicken Panini Panera?

Absolutely! While sturdy breads like French, focaccia, or sourdough work best, feel free to experiment with your favorites. Just ensure they can hold up to the fillings.

How do I make the chipotle mayo for my Chipotle Chicken Panini Panera?

To make the chipotle mayo, whisk together egg yolk, Dijon mustard, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly add neutral oil while whisking until emulsified. Stir in smoked paprika and chopped chipotle pepper. Enjoy!

Can I substitute other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute grilled turkey or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just ensure they are seasoned well to match the flavors of this panini.

Final Thoughts

This Chipotle Chicken Panini is truly special with its balance of smoky flavors and textures that come together beautifully. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and will surely impress anyone you share it with. Happy cooking!