Name: Mediterranean Chicken Avocado Panini
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 panini
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Fusion
Ingredients: 300 g chicken breast; 15 ml olive oil; 5 ml lemon juice; 2 g dried oregano; 2 g garlic powder; 3 g salt; 1 g black pepper; 2 ciabatta rolls; 40 g basil pesto; 60 g roasted red peppers; 1 avocado; 60 g feta cheese; 15 ml olive oil

Equipment

Panini press*

or Heavy skillet with a second heavy pan to press down

Grill pan or skillet

Chef's knife

Cutting board

Small bowl

* optional

Ingredients

2 servings

Chicken & Marinade

300 g chicken breast, boneless, skinless
15 ml olive oil
5 ml lemon juice
2 g dried oregano
2 g garlic powder
3 g salt
1 g black pepper

Assembly

2 ciabatta rolls
40 g basil pesto
60 g roasted red peppers, drained and patted dry
1 avocado, ripe
60 g feta cheese, crumbled
15 ml olive oil

Nutrition (per serving)

976

Calories

49g

Protein

88g

Carbs

48g

Fat

Fiber

Sugar

1029mg

Sodium

Method

Combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub the mixture over the chicken breasts. Let sit for at least 15 minutes.

15m

Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 74°C/165°F). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.

12mLook for: Golden brown sear marksFeel: Firm to the touch

While chicken rests, slice the avocado into thick strips or mash slightly with a fork. Slice the rested chicken into strips against the grain.

Spread pesto on the bottom half of each roll. Layer the sliced chicken, roasted red peppers, avocado, and crumbled feta. Top with the other half of the bread.

Brush the exterior of the sandwiches with olive oil. Place in a preheated panini press (or hot skillet). If using a skillet, place a heavy pan on top of the sandwiches to press them down.

Cook for 3-5 minutes until the bread is golden brown, crispy, and the cheese has softened. Serve immediately.

5mLook for: Golden brown crust, cheese softeningFeel: Crisp exterior

Chef's Notes

If you cannot find ciabatta, choose a bread with a sturdy crust like sourdough; soft sandwich bread will flatten too much and become gummy.
For extra flavor, mix a pinch of chili flakes into the mashed avocado.
Using jarred roasted peppers is convenient, but ensure they are thoroughly drained and patted dry, otherwise the steam will make the bottom bread soggy.
Feta doesn't melt like mozzarella; it softens and warms. If you want a 'cheese pull' effect, mix a little mozzarella or provolone with the feta.