10 Delicious Chicken Panini Recipes for Easy Lunches
Need a quick and tasty lunch idea? These 10 chicken panini recipes are just what you need! They’re simple to make and packed with flavor, perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something satisfying. Grab your panini press and let’s get cooking!
Spicy Buffalo Chicken with Blue Cheese
This spicy Buffalo chicken panini is a perfect mix of heat and creaminess, making it an exciting choice for a quick lunch. With tender shredded chicken tossed in zesty Buffalo sauce and topped with a rich blue cheese dressing, it packs a flavorful punch that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also super easy to whip up! Just a few simple ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering sandwich that you can enjoy any day of the week. Serve it with a side salad or some crispy fries for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce
- 4 slices of bread (your choice)
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup blue cheese dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with Buffalo sauce, stirring until well coated.
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle olive oil to coat the pan.
- Assemble the panini by layering lettuce, the Buffalo chicken mixture, and drizzling blue cheese dressing on one slice of bread. Top with another slice.
- Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove from the skillet, slice, and serve warm. Enjoy your spicy Buffalo chicken panini!
Mediterranean Chicken with Feta
This Mediterranean Chicken Panini is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings a burst of the Mediterranean right to your lunch table. Juicy chicken, tangy feta cheese, and vibrant vegetables come together to create a satisfying and delicious meal. Plus, it’s simple to make, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a laid-back dinner.
The combination of grilled chicken and fresh vegetables, topped with crumbled feta and a drizzle of olive oil, gives this panini its unique taste. Each bite offers a mix of savory and bright flavors, making it an irresistible choice for any sandwich lover. Serve it hot, and you’ll have a delightful meal that’s sure to please!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 4 slices of ciabatta or your preferred bread
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil, then sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.
- Grill the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sliced red bell pepper and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender. Remove and set aside.
- Assemble the Panini: On one slice of bread, layer spinach, sliced chicken, grilled red pepper, olives, and crumbled feta. Top with another slice of bread.
- Grill the Panini: Preheat a panini press or a skillet. Grill the sandwich for 3-5 minutes until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melty.
- Serve: Slice the panini in half and enjoy your Mediterranean Chicken Panini warm!
Caprese Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Caprese Chicken with Balsamic Glaze is a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad. This sandwich brings together juicy grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. It’s a delicious combination that’s sure to please your taste buds, making lunchtime feel special!
This recipe is not only flavorful but also quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy days, you can whip it up in no time. Just grab your ingredients, layer them up, and grill your panini for a satisfying meal that feels gourmet yet simple.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of crusty bread
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- Olive oil for grilling
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear them over medium heat until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let them rest before slicing.
- On two slices of bread, layer the sliced chicken, mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil leaves.
- Top with the remaining slices of bread. Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
- Grill the sandwiches on a panini maker or skillet until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving, and enjoy your delicious Caprese Chicken panini!
Grilled Chicken and Pesto Delight
Grilled Chicken and Pesto Delight is a fantastic option for a quick lunch that’s bursting with flavor. This panini combines juicy grilled chicken, creamy mozzarella, and zesty pesto, all pressed between crispy bread. The taste is a delightful mix of savory and fresh, making it a satisfying meal you can whip up in no time.
Not only is this sandwich simple to prepare, but it also offers a great way to use leftover chicken. Just layer your ingredients, press it in a panini maker or skillet, and you’ll have a delicious lunch ready in minutes!
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread (ciabatta or sourdough work well)
- 1 grilled chicken breast, sliced
- 1/4 cup pesto
- 4 slices of fresh mozzarella
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Spread the pesto evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
- Layer the sliced grilled chicken on one slice, then add the mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Top with the second slice of bread, pesto side down.
- Brush the outside of the sandwich with olive oil.
- Preheat a panini maker or skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in and grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Remove from the heat, slice, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
BBQ Chicken and Cheddar Meltdown
This BBQ Chicken and Cheddar Meltdown is the perfect quick lunch for those busy days. With tender, shredded chicken drenched in tangy barbecue sauce and melted cheddar cheese, this panini is a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and a panini press or skillet.
The savory flavors blend beautifully, creating a delightful crunch from the toasted bread and a gooey, cheesy center. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be whipped up in no time, making it ideal for lunches or casual dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices of sourdough or ciabatta bread
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- Optional: pickles or jalapeños for added flavor
Instructions
- Mix the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce in a bowl until well coated.
- Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place the unbuttered side of two slices on a clean surface. Layer with the BBQ chicken mixture and top with cheddar cheese.
- If desired, add pickles or jalapeños before topping with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
- Heat a panini press or skillet over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Slice in half and serve warm.
Chicken Caesar Salad Panini
The Chicken Caesar Salad Panini is a tasty twist on the classic Caesar salad. With grilled chicken, fresh lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing pressed between slices of crisp, toasted bread, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack. The combination of flavors is simple yet delightful, making it a hit for both adults and kids.
This panini is not only easy to prepare but also versatile. You can customize it by adding ingredients like tomatoes or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Whether enjoyed on a busy weekday or a lazy weekend, this sandwich offers a delicious way to enjoy your favorite salad in a new form.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of sourdough bread
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat a panini press or a skillet over medium heat.
- In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken, chopped lettuce, Caesar dressing, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
- Brush one side of each slice of bread with olive oil. Lay one slice, oiled side down, in the panini press or skillet.
- Spoon the chicken Caesar mixture onto the bread and top with the second slice, oiled side up.
- Cook in the panini press or skillet for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from heat, slice in half, and serve warm. Enjoy!
Sun-dried Tomato and Chicken Spread
This Sun-dried Tomato and Chicken Spread is a delightful fusion of flavors that makes for a perfect quick lunch. The combination of tender chicken and rich sun-dried tomatoes creates a savory spread that’s both satisfying and easy to whip up.
Simply mix shredded chicken with sun-dried tomatoes, a bit of cream cheese, and fresh herbs for brightness. Spread it on toasted bread, and you have a mouthwatering panini ready in minutes!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of your favorite bread
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, olive oil, basil, and parsley. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the chicken mixture on two slices of bread. Top with fresh spinach leaves and cover with the remaining bread slices.
- Heat a panini press or skillet over medium heat. Grill the sandwiches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Slice in half and serve warm.
Teriyaki Chicken with Pineapple
This Teriyaki Chicken with Pineapple panini is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy chicken is marinated in a tangy teriyaki sauce, then layered with fresh pineapple, creating a perfect balance that dances on the taste buds. It’s a simple dish to whip up, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch.
Grilling the panini gives it a crispy exterior while keeping the filling moist and flavorful. Each bite bursts with the tropical essence of pineapple paired with the umami of the chicken, making it a satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you need something delicious in a hurry!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 4 slices of bread (ciabatta or sourdough work well)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken breasts and teriyaki sauce. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.
- Assemble the Panini: On a slice of bread, layer the sliced chicken, diced pineapple, and shredded cheese. Top with another slice of bread.
- Grill the Panini: Brush the outside of the sandwich with olive oil. Place on a panini press or grill pan, and cook until golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from the heat, slice in half, and garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy your Teriyaki Chicken with Pineapple panini!
Buffalo Ranch Chicken with Avocado
This Buffalo Ranch Chicken Panini is a delightful mix of spicy and creamy flavors, making it a perfect quick lunch option. The crunchy lettuce and smooth avocado add a refreshing twist to the bold buffalo sauce, resulting in a sandwich that’s satisfying and full of taste.
Easy to make, this recipe is ideal for busy days when you crave something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Just grill or pan-fry the chicken, mix up some ranch dressing, and layer everything between slices of bread for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 4 slices of your favorite bread
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest.
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. Adjust to taste if you want more heat or creaminess.
- Assemble the Panini: Slice the cooked chicken and toss it in the buffalo ranch sauce. On one slice of bread, layer the buffalo chicken, shredded lettuce, and diced avocado. Top with another slice of bread.
- Grill the Panini: Heat a panini press or skillet over medium heat. Grill the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Cut the panini in half and enjoy it warm. You can serve it with extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
Herbed Chicken and Spinach Fusion
This Herbed Chicken and Spinach Fusion panini is a delightful combination of flavors that elevates a simple lunch to a new level. The tender chicken, seasoned with fresh herbs, pairs perfectly with the vibrant spinach and a creamy sauce, making each bite a burst of taste. It’s not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy days.
The crispy, toasted bread adds a satisfying crunch, while the melted cheese brings it all together. Whether you’re enjoying this at home or packing it for a lunch on the go, it’s a fulfilling meal that will leave you satisfied.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 4 slices of your favorite bread
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook on a skillet over medium heat until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let it cool before slicing.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and lemon juice for the spread.
- Preheat a panini press or grill pan. Spread the mayonnaise mixture on one side of each slice of bread.
- Layer spinach, sliced chicken, and mozzarella cheese on two slices of bread, then top with the remaining slices, mayonnaise side down.
- Toast the sandwiches in the panini press or grill pan until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-5 minutes.