It’s always nice when a plan comes together. You have a recipe and all the ingredients and time to make it, but I’m also happy to take a win when I happen to have all the ingredients and a meal comes together as deliciously as this Chicken Pesto Sandwich. I’m talking about mmmmm over-the-top goodness. I can’t seem to break the habit of cooking in volume like I’m expecting the kids to walk in the door, along with their friends and maybe a neighbor or two and the result is. . .leftovers. Do you do this too? So when I was looking for something for lunch the other day, I discovered that between the leftovers in the refrigerator, a couple of things in the freezer and the tomatoes I just picked from the garden, I had the makings for one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever eaten. I don’t mean gosh I’m hungry that was good. I’m talking one of the best sandwiches. . .ever.
I first tasted the inspiration for this sandwich at The Village Cheese Shanty in the Traverse City area of northern Michigan. I’ve been to Traverse City several times and never get tired of it. Rolling hills, vineyards, wineries and some of the cutest shops anywhere. They also have enormous sand dunes to climb and beautiful beaches along Lake Michigan. It really has it all, including the heart of Mario Batalli, who owns a home there. The Village Cheese Shanty calls their version of this Chicken Pesto Sandwich The Lake Effect. I call it amazingly delicious. Lucky for us this is the ideal time to make it ~ tomatoes ripened in the summer sun from your garden or local farmer’s market and fresh-made pesto are key components. Have you ever made your own pesto? It’s really easy, freezes well and not only does it make this sandwich extra tasty, but it’s also delicious over warm pasta and some sautéed vegetables for a fast, easy meal.
The original version of this sandwich is on a baguette which stands up better if you aren’t eating it right away. It’s perfect for a picnic. Both options are great, but personally I prefer the softness of the brioche bun. Shhhh. . .you won’t tell, right?
Start by assembling the ingredients:
- 1 – chicken breast, cooked and sliced NOTE: If you have leftover chicken, this is a great use for it!
- 2 – brioche buns
- pesto – store bought or homemade
- mayonnaise ~ the real stuff
- 1 – tomato, sliced
- 2-4 leaves of romaine lettuce
- 1 – package of garlic and herb goat cheese, softened to room temperature
Do you know how easy it is to make pesto mayonnaise?
Just mix equal parts of pesto and mayonnaise. You can find recipes online that are heavier on the mayo, but I really love the taste of pesto and find this blend ideal. If the flavor is too strong for your taste, you can cut it with a bit more mayo.
Assembly:
Spread a layer of softened garlic herb goat cheese onto one half of the bun (about one tablespoon or so per sandwich).
Layer the chicken slices on top, along with the lettuce and tomato. Spread a layer of pesto-mayo on the other half of the bun. Did I say spread? I meant slather. . .slaaaather. This is not the part to skimp.
That’s it! You’re done. Just slice and enjoy your Chicken Pesto Sandwich by itself, a pickle or two or your favorite potato chips!
What’s your favorite go-to meal in this heat?
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A great way to use leftover chicken…..love all the flavors going on here. Going on menu list….pinned. Thanks for a great sandwich idea.
Hey there Mary – thank you! Yes definitely a great use for leftover chicken! Do you overcook like I do? Sandwiches don’t have to be boring, right? Enjoy the weekend and let’s chat next week 🙂