Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a flavor-packed twist on a classic favorite! Our Grilled Chicken Fajita Panini is not just another sandwich; it's a culinary adventure that brings the vibrant tastes of Mexican cuisine straight to your kitchen. In just 25 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack. Imagine biting into a warm, crispy panini filled with juicy grilled chicken, sautéed peppers, and melted cheese, all seasoned to perfection. Trust us, this is one recipe you won’t want to miss!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 whole wheat panini rolls
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fajita seasoning
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips if not already done. Slice the bell pepper and onion into thin strips as well. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Add the grilled chicken slices to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle the fajita seasoning over the mixture, stirring well to ensure that the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- While the chicken and vegetables are cooking, preheat your panini press or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Once the chicken and vegetable mixture is ready, remove it from the heat and set aside. Take the whole wheat panini rolls and slice them in half horizontally.
- On the bottom half of each roll, layer a generous portion of the chicken and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese on top of the filling for each panini.
- Place the top half of the roll on each assembled panini. If using a panini press, place the sandwiches in the press and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- If using a grill pan, place the assembled paninis in the pan and use a heavy skillet or a panini press to apply pressure on top. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Once cooked, remove the paninis from the heat and let them cool for a minute before slicing them in half. Serve warm with your favorite sides such as salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have a little extra time, marinate the chicken breasts in lime juice, garlic, and additional fajita seasoning for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables! Zucchini, mushrooms, or even corn can add a delightful twist to the filling.
- Cheese Choices: While shredded cheese is a must, consider using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra kick of flavor.
- Pressing Technique: If you don’t have a panini press, you can use a heavy skillet to press down on the sandwiches while grilling. This will help achieve that perfect crispy crust.
- Serve with Dips: Elevate your meal by serving the paninis with sides like homemade salsa, creamy guacamole, or a refreshing cilantro-lime dressing for dipping.
- Make it Ahead: The chicken and vegetable filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just assemble the paninis and grill them when you’re ready to eat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
