Cafe-Style Chicken Pesto Sandwich (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Sandwich Base

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced lengthwise into 4 cutlets and pounded thin
02 - 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
03 - Salt and pepper for seasoning
04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Assembly Ingredients

05 - 2 large ciabatta bread rolls
06 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
07 - 1/4 cup prepared pesto (homemade preferred)
08 - 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
09 - 2 ripe tomatoes, sliced
10 - Salt for seasoning tomatoes

# Instructions:

01 - Start by giving your chicken cutlets a good coating of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides. This will build our first layer of flavor.
02 - Get your skillet nice and hot over medium-high heat with the olive oil. Once it's shimmering, add those seasoned chicken cutlets and cook until they're beautifully golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. You'll know they're done when they reach 165°F inside. Set them aside while we build our sandwiches.
03 - Split those ciabatta rolls and give each side a nice spread of mayo followed by a layer of pesto. Layer the bottom half with your cooked chicken cutlets, then top with slices of fresh mozzarella and tomato. Don't forget to give those tomatoes a little sprinkle of salt - it makes all the difference!
04 - Pop your assembled sandwiches in a toaster oven or sandwich press until that mozzarella gets all melty and the bread turns golden and crispy. Serve them up while they're hot!

# Notes:

01 - This cafe-style sandwich brings together Italian-inspired flavors with perfectly cooked chicken, creamy pesto, and melty mozzarella on crispy ciabatta.
02 - Try switching up the bread with sourdough, baguette, or focaccia, or experiment with different cheeses like smoked mozzarella for variety!