Delicious Bacon & Chicken Panini - Recipe Inside!

If you’re looking for a grilled sandwich that’s bursting with flavor and hits all the right notes, this Chicken Panini Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture this: tender, shredded chicken, smoky bacon, juicy tomatoes, and two types of cheese melting together between perfectly grilled, golden slices of bread. It's comfort food that will leave you reaching for a second helping before you’ve even finished your first!

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I discovered this gem of a recipe on Insanely Good Recipes, and I’m excited to share it with you. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be hooked. This is a sandwich that balances tangy BBQ with creamy ranch dressing in every bite, making it irresistible for lunch, dinner, or even a savory snack.

A Family Favorite: My Love for Chicken Paninis

Growing up, my family loved anything with cheese, chicken, and bacon – this panini hits all those marks and more. I still remember the first time I made it; my kitchen filled with the mouth-watering aroma of sizzling bacon and melted cheddar. After that first bite, I knew this would become a staple in my home. The crunch of the grilled bread, the gooey cheese, and the savory chicken are an unbeatable combination. Every time I serve it, my family is always asking for seconds!

If you’re like me and love quick, flavor-packed meals, this easy chicken panini recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household too.

The Origins of Paninis – A Fun Food History

While paninis originated in Italy, their popularity has exploded across the globe, especially in the U.S., where endless variations exist. In Italy, these grilled sandwiches, called panini (plural for panino), are traditionally made with Italian bread like ciabatta or focaccia, stuffed with simple yet fresh ingredients. But here in the States, we’ve taken the concept up a notch – adding everything from bacon to BBQ sauce to create a more indulgent experience. This version blends classic Italian sandwich craftsmanship with bold American flavors!

How to Make the Best Chicken Panini at Home

Ingredients:

• 4 slices thick-cut bread (or 2 ciabatta rolls)
• 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
• 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
• 8 slices sharp cheddar, Havarti, or Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 cups shredded, cooked chicken
• 4 slices bacon, cooked
• 2 medium ripe tomatoes
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat your panini press to medium heat. If you don’t have a panini press, you can also use a grill pan.
2. Prepare the bread by spreading ranch dressing on two slices and BBQ sauce on the other two slices.
3. Layer the fillings: Start by placing two slices of cheese on each ranch-covered slice. Top with the shredded chicken, cooked bacon, and tomato slices. Add another layer of cheese on top before placing the BBQ-covered bread slices to complete the sandwich. Press the sandwich lightly to secure it.
4. Grill the panini: Spray the tops with olive oil and place the sandwiches in the preheated panini press, olive oil side down. Spray the other side with olive oil, close the press, and cook for 3-5 minutes until golden and the cheese is melted.If using a grill pan, place the sandwiches in the pan and weigh them down with a heavy skillet. Grill for 2-4 minutes on each side until crispy and the cheese is gooey.
5. Let it cool: Remove the paninis from the heat and let them rest for a minute or two. Then, slice them in half and serve hot.

Pro Tips:

• Choose the right bread: Ciabatta or thick-cut sourdough works best here, as they can hold up to the hefty fillings and grilling process.
• Don’t overload the sauce: A light layer of ranch and BBQ sauce goes a long way in keeping your bread from getting soggy.

Perfect Pairings for Your Chicken Panini

For a complete meal, try pairing your panini with a light side dish. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the rich flavors of the sandwich. For something heartier, sweet potato fries or a bowl of creamy tomato soup would be a delightful companion to your crispy, cheesy panini.

Recipe Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken and bacon for grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Add a touch of pesto for extra flavor!
• Spicy Twist: If you love a bit of heat, try adding a few slices of pickled jalapeños or drizzle some hot sauce over the chicken before grilling.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the bread and turn this into a chicken and bacon wrap using lettuce leaves as a base for the fillings.

Call to Action

Did you love this BBQ Chicken Panini recipe? Leave a comment below with your thoughts or share it with a friend who’s always on the lookout for delicious sandwich recipes! Make sure to follow me for more mouth-watering recipes just like this one.

Enjoy every cheesy, melty bite!