If you’re on the lookout for a deliciously satisfying sandwich that combines flavors in a way that makes your taste buds sing, look no further than the Chicken Arugula Provolone Panini with Chipotle. This delightful creation is not just any sandwich; it’s a medley of grilled chicken, peppery arugula, creamy provolone, and a spicy kick from chipotle sauce, all nestled between crispy ciabatta. It’s the perfect lunch or dinner option, easy to prepare, and absolutely packed with flavor!

Reasons to Love Chicken Arugula Provolone Panini with Chipotle

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this panini! First and foremost, it’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it a great option for a quick meal. The combination of the smoky chipotle and the fresh arugula adds a unique twist that keeps it exciting. Additionally, the use of light mayonnaise keeps it creamy without being heavy, making it a lighter alternative to traditional paninis. Plus, the ciabatta bread creates a perfect crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and chewy interior.

What We’re Using

To create this mouthwatering Chicken Arugula Provolone Panini with Chipotle, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 tbsp Hellmann’s light mayonnaise
1 tsp chipotle in adobo sauce, or to taste
3 oz ciabatta, sliced open
2 oz grilled chicken
1 slice Sargento reduced fat provolone
0.5 oz about 1/2 cup baby arugula
Smart Balance cooking spray for grilling

Recommended Tools

To make your cooking experience seamless, here are some recommended tools you’ll need:

Panini press – This is ideal for achieving that perfect crispy crust.
Sharp knife – For slicing the ciabatta and grilled chicken with ease.
Spatula – Helpful for flipping the sandwich if you’re using a skillet.
Mixing bowl – For combining the mayonnaise and chipotle sauce.

Make Chicken Arugula Provolone Panini with Chipotle: A Simple Method

Creating this Chicken Arugula Provolone Panini with Chipotle is a breeze, and I promise you’ll be savoring every bite in no time. Follow these straightforward steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Chipotle Mayo

In a mixing bowl, combine the 1 tbsp Hellmann’s light mayonnaise and 1 tsp chipotle in adobo sauce. Mix well until fully combined. Taste and adjust the chipotle based on your spice preference.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich

Spread the chipotle mayo generously on both sides of the 3 oz ciabatta. Layer the 2 oz grilled chicken on one side followed by the 1 slice Sargento reduced fat provolone and 0.5 oz baby arugula. Top with the other half of the ciabatta.

Step 3: Grill the Panini

Preheat your panini press or skillet over medium heat. Spray the outside of the sandwich with Smart Balance cooking spray to ensure a golden, crispy crust. If using a skillet, place the sandwich in the pan and press it down with a spatula.

Step 4: Cook Until Golden

If using a panini press, close the lid and grill for about 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. If using a skillet, grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, flipping carefully.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once grilled to perfection, remove the panini from the heat and let it cool for a minute. Slice it in half, serve with your favorite side, and enjoy the incredible flavors of this Chicken Arugula Provolone Panini with Chipotle!

Make It Diet-Friendly

If you’re looking to tweak this recipe to fit specific dietary needs, consider these modifications:

Use whole grain ciabatta for added fiber and nutrients.
Opt for grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
Substitute low-fat cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives for a vegan option.
Increase the amount of arugula or add other vegetables such as roasted red peppers for more nutrients.

Cook’s Commentary

This Chicken Arugula Provolone Panini with Chipotle is all about balancing flavors and textures. The creamy chipotle mayo adds a delightful heat that pairs perfectly with the peppery arugula. I love that this is a versatile recipe; feel free to customize it to your liking! Sometimes, I add slices of ripe avocado or even some tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. It’s a sandwich that can evolve with your cravings!

Best Ways to Store

If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), here’s how to store them:

Wrap the panini tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
For best results, reheat in a skillet or panini press to restore the crispiness.
If you’ve prepared the ingredients ahead of time, store the grilled chicken, chipotle mayo, and arugula separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why is my panini soggy?

A soggy panini can occur if there is too much moisture from the ingredients or if the bread is not toasted long enough. Make sure your ingredients are dry and consider grilling the panini a bit longer for that perfect crunch.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! While ciabatta is a wonderful choice, you can experiment with other types of bread such as focaccia, sourdough, or even whole grain bread depending on your preference.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chipotle mayo, grilled chicken, and slice the bread ahead of time. Assemble the sandwich just before grilling for the best texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have a panini press?

No problem! You can easily make this in a skillet. Just use a spatula to press down on the sandwich while it cooks, ensuring even grilling on both sides.

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Final Bite

This Chicken Arugula Provolone Panini with Chipotle is more than just a sandwich; it’s an experience! With layers of flavor, a satisfying crunch, and a hint of spice, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. So fire up your panini press, gather the ingredients, and treat yourself to a delicious meal that’s bursting with flavor!