Chicken Walnut Pesto Sandwich

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Walnut Pesto Sandwich offers a fresh and satisfying combination of textures and flavors. The nutty, garlicky pesto made with walnuts is a delicious variation of the classic basil pesto, giving the sandwich a hearty and unique twist. Paired with juicy grilled chicken, crunchy vegetables, and your favorite bread, this sandwich is an easy-to-make meal that’s both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a filling dinner, this sandwich is a guaranteed hit!

Ingredients

For the walnut pesto:

• 1 cup walnuts, toasted

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the sandwich:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 4 slices of your favorite bread (ciabatta, sourdough, or whole wheat work well)

• Fresh spinach or arugula

• Tomato slices (optional)

• Red onion slices (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the walnut pesto:

1. In a food processor, combine the toasted walnuts, basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.

2. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and lemon juice. Continue to blend until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency. If the pesto is too thick, you can add a bit more olive oil to reach your desired texture.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set the pesto aside.

Grill the chicken:

4. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and brush the chicken breasts with olive oil.

5. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

6. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is fully cooked through. Once done, remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the sandwich:

7. Toast the slices of bread lightly on the grill or in a toaster.

8. Spread a generous amount of walnut pesto on the bottom slice of each piece of bread.

9. Layer the sliced grilled chicken on top of the pesto.

10. Add fresh spinach or arugula, and top with slices of tomato and red onion, if desired.

11. Place the top slice of bread on the sandwich, press down gently, and slice in half.

Serve:

12. Serve the Chicken Walnut Pesto Sandwich immediately with a side of chips, pickles, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Walnut Pesto Wrap: For a lighter version, use a whole wheat tortilla to wrap the sandwich instead of bread.

• Add Cheese: You can add a slice of mozzarella, provolone, or goat cheese to make the sandwich extra creamy.

• Grilled Veggies: Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for more flavor and texture.

• Vegan Version: Replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or a plant-based protein and use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative in the pesto.

• Spicy Chicken Walnut Pesto Sandwich: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or fresh jalapeño slices to the pesto or the sandwich for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: The walnut pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the walnut pesto for up to 3 months. Store it in a freezer-safe container or ice cube tray, and thaw it when ready to use.

• Reheating: If you want to reheat the sandwich, wrap it in foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular pesto instead of walnut pesto?

Yes, you can substitute classic basil pesto for the walnut pesto if you prefer. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!

2. Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, you can definitely use store-bought pesto if you’re short on time. Just be sure to check the ingredients to ensure it’s dairy-free or meets your dietary preferences.

3. Can I make the pesto ahead of time?

Yes, the walnut pesto can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

4. What can I use instead of walnuts in the pesto?

You can substitute other nuts like pine nuts, almonds, or cashews for a slightly different flavor profile.

5. Can I make the sandwich without grilling the chicken?

Yes, you can use cooked or rotisserie chicken for a quicker version of the sandwich. Simply slice the chicken and proceed with assembling the sandwich.

6. How can I make this sandwich spicier?

To add some heat, you can include hot sauce in the pesto, add sliced jalapeños or banana peppers to the sandwich, or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the chicken.

7. Can I use a different type of bread for this sandwich?

Yes, you can use any bread you like, including ciabatta, sourdough, baguette, or whole-grain bread, depending on your preference.

8. Can I add more vegetables to the sandwich?

Definitely! You can add additional vegetables like roasted bell peppers, cucumbers, or even a few slices of avocado for extra creaminess.

9. Can I make this sandwich without cheese?

Yes, the sandwich is still delicious without cheese, especially with the richness of the walnut pesto and the flavorful chicken.

10. How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?

To prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy, make sure to toast the bread and use fresh, dry ingredients. Avoid overloading the sandwich with too much pesto or sauce.

Conclusion

The Chicken Walnut Pesto Sandwich is a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meal that combines tender grilled chicken with the rich, nutty flavors of walnut pesto. The addition of fresh greens, tomatoes, and a perfectly toasted bun takes this sandwich to the next level, making it a perfect choice for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving it to others, this sandwich is guaranteed to impress with its bold flavors and simple ingredients!