Introduction
Get ready to spice up your meal with a delicious Spicy Italian Grilled Chicken Sandwich! This mouthwatering sandwich combines succulent grilled chicken tenders with creamy Calabrian chili mayonnaise, fresh mozzarella, and peppery arugula all nestled between crispy ciabatta bread. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner, this flavorful sandwich is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 Tbsp. olive oil
– Sea salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lb. chicken tenders
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 Tbsp. chopped Calabrian chilis (adjust according to spice preference)
– 4 oz. fresh mozzarella, sliced
– 4 cups arugula
– 2 Tbsp. lemon juice
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Flaky sea salt, to taste
– Black pepper, to taste
– 16 oz. Ciabatta bread or rolls, sliced
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Instructions
1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Drizzle the chicken tenders with olive oil and season with sea salt and pepper. Grill over direct heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain.
2. While the chicken is grilling, prepare the spicy mayo by mixing together the mayonnaise and chopped Calabrian chilis in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. As the chicken rests, toss the arugula in a bowl with lemon juice and a teaspoon of olive oil. Season with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and black pepper to taste.
4. To assemble the sandwich, spread a generous layer of Calabrian chili mayo over the bottom piece of the ciabatta bread. Layer sliced mozzarella cheese, followed by sliced grilled chicken, and finally topped with the dressed arugula.
5. If desired, wrap the sandwich in parchment paper for easy handling and serve immediately. Enjoy your spicy Italian grilled chicken sandwich!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Step 2: Prepare Chicken
Drizzle 1 lb. of chicken tenders with 1 Tbsp. of olive oil. Season generously with sea salt and pepper.
Step 3: Grill Chicken
Place the chicken over direct heat on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 4: Slice Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, thinly slice the chicken against the grain.
Step 5: Make Calabrian Chili Mayo
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of mayonnaise with 2 Tbsp. of chopped Calabrian chilis. Adjust the amount of chilis according to your spice preference. Mix well and set aside.
Step 6: Prepare Arugula Salad
In a separate bowl, toss together 4 cups of arugula, 2 Tbsp. of lemon juice, and 1 tsp. of olive oil. Season the mixture with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and black pepper.
Step 7: Assemble Sandwiches
Spread the Calabrian chili mayo over the bottom piece of your sliced ciabatta bread or rolls. Layer with sliced mozzarella cheese, followed by the sliced grilled chicken, and then add the arugula salad on top.
Step 8: Complete the Sandwich
Place the top piece of bread on the sandwich. If desired, wrap the sandwich with parchment paper for easy handling.
Notes
Storage
Leftover sandwiches can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Adjusting Spice Level
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Calabrian chilis or use a milder chili paste instead.
Serving Suggestion
These sandwiches pair well with a side of chips or a light salad.
Grill Alternatives
If you don’t have access to a grill, you can also cook the chicken on a skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
Cook Techniques
Grilling Chicken
Drizzle the chicken tenders with olive oil and season with sea salt and pepper. Grill them over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes on each side, ensuring that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Allow the chicken to rest before slicing it thinly against the grain for optimal tenderness.
Making Spicy Mayonnaise
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise with chopped Calabrian chilis. Adjust the amount of chilis based on your preferred spice level. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Tossing Arugula
In a separate mixing bowl, combine arugula with lemon juice and olive oil. Toss well until the leaves are evenly coated. Season with flaky sea salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
Assembling the Sandwich
Spread the spicy mayonnaise over the bottom piece of ciabatta bread. Layer with sliced fresh mozzarella, grilled chicken, and the arugula mixture. Optionally, you can wrap the assembled sandwich in parchment paper for easier handling.
FAQ
Can I use other types of chicken, not just tenders?
Yes, you can use other cuts of chicken such as chicken breast or thighs, but cooking times may vary.
Are Calabrian chilis very spicy?
Calabrian chilis can be spicy, but you can adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
Can I make the mayonnaise ahead of time?
Yes, the spicy mayonnaise can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
What can I substitute for arugula?
If you don’t have arugula, you can substitute it with spinach or mixed greens for a different flavor profile.
How can I ensure my chicken stays juicy?
Make sure to grill the chicken at the right temperature and allow it to rest after cooking. This prevents moisture loss and keeps the meat tender.
Conclusion
The Spicy Italian Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines juicy grilled chicken with the rich flavors of Calabrian chilis and fresh mozzarella. The peppery arugula and zesty lemon juice add a refreshing balance, making it perfect for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner. This sandwich is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy it with a side of fries or a salad for a complete meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Chicken Pesto Sandwich
Swap out the Calabrian chili mayo for fresh basil pesto, add slices of provolone cheese, and pile on fresh spinach for a vibrant and herbaceous take.
Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Toss grilled chicken tenders in buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese dressing, crisp celery slaw, and sliced pickles on toasted rolls.
Caprese Chicken Sandwich
Layer grilled chicken with fresh basil, sliced tomatoes, and balsamic glaze alongside mozzarella on ciabatta for a classic Italian flavor twist.
Spicy Chicken Avocado Toast
Cut the ciabatta into smaller pieces, mash avocado with lime juice, and top with sliced grilled chicken and spicy mayo for a trendy open-faced sandwich.
Italian Sausage and Chicken Sandwich
Mix grilled chicken tenders with Italian sausage for a hearty filling, topped with sautéed bell peppers and onions, and a sprinkle of Parmesan on a hoagie roll.