Crispy, cheesy, and packed with juicy chicken, the Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich is the ultimate comfort food for sandwich lovers. Imagine layers of tender pulled chicken, melted mozzarella, sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, and a touch of fresh herbs—all pressed between buttery golden bread slices. It’s a warm hug in sandwich form, perfect for a cozy lunch, dinner, or even a gourmet snack.

What makes this sandwich special is the balance of textures and flavors. The outer crunch of perfectly grilled bread meets the rich, gooey cheese and savory-sweet chicken inside. It’s quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying, whether you’re serving guests or just treating yourself.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the recipe, gather these essential tools to make the process smooth and mess-free:

Panini Press or Grill Pan: This is the heart of the recipe. A panini press ensures even grilling on both sides, giving you that iconic crispy finish. A grill pan works too—just press down with a spatula or another heavy skillet.
Mixing Bowl: Use this to toss your shredded chicken with sauce and seasonings. It helps ensure even coating for every bite.
Spatula or Tongs: Great for flipping and lifting the sandwich if you’re using a grill pan.

Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing your bread and prepping any fresh herbs or add-ins.
Grater (Optional): If you’re using block cheese, freshly grated cheese melts more evenly and enhances the sandwich’s texture.

With these tools ready, you’re set to create a panini that looks and tastes like it’s straight from a bistro.

Ingredients for the Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich

Each component in this sandwich adds depth and balance. Here’s what you need and why it’s essential:

Cooked Shredded Chicken: The star of the dish. Use leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken for juicy, flavorful meat.
Mozzarella Cheese (sliced or shredded): Melts beautifully and gives the panini its gooey, stretchy texture.

Barbecue Sauce: Adds sweet, smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken and cheese.
Fresh Parsley or Chives (optional): A sprinkle of herbs adds a bright, fresh note.
Thick-Cut Bread (like sourdough or Texas toast): Holds up to grilling without falling apart, creating that satisfying crunch.

Butter: For spreading on the outer sides of the bread to achieve a golden, crispy crust.

How To Make the Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich

Step 1: Prep the Chicken Filling

In a mixing bowl, toss the shredded chicken with your barbecue sauce. Stir until evenly coated and set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich

Take two slices of bread and butter one side of each. On the unbuttered side of one slice, layer mozzarella cheese, then add the barbecue chicken mixture. Sprinkle with herbs if using, and top with another layer of cheese before closing the sandwich with the second bread slice, buttered side out.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Heat your panini press or grill pan over medium heat. Place the sandwich on the hot surface and press down (or use another skillet to weigh it down if using a pan). Grill for 3–4 minutes per side or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 4: Serve

Remove from heat, let it rest for a minute, then slice in half. Serve hot and enjoy the melty goodness!

Best Way to Serve and Store Your Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich

Serve your grilled chicken panini fresh off the press for maximum crispiness and melt. It’s perfect on its own or alongside a crisp green salad, sweet potato fries, or a warm cup of tomato soup. The melty cheese and flavorful chicken are best enjoyed immediately while the bread is still golden and crunchy.

If you have leftovers, wrap the cooled sandwich tightly in foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to preserve the crisp texture—avoid the microwave, as it can make the bread soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of bread works best for paninis?

Thick, sturdy bread like sourdough, ciabatta, or Texas toast is ideal. These hold up to the grill and keep the fillings in place.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely. Provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack are great alternatives to mozzarella and offer different flavor profiles.

What if I don’t have a panini press?

No problem! Use a grill pan or regular skillet and press the sandwich down with another heavy pan to get a similar effect.

Is this sandwich freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze assembled (uncooked) sandwiches wrapped in foil. When ready, cook them straight from frozen in a skillet or oven.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes! Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy twist.

Can I use store-bought pulled chicken?

Definitely. Store-bought rotisserie chicken or pre-pulled options make this a quick and easy meal.

Want More Sandwich Ideas with a Twist?

If this Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich made your tastebuds happy, check out some more creative takes on classic comfort foods:

Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes for that bold, cheesy beef fix.

Southwest Grilled Chicken Wraps if you’re into spicy, smoky flavors.
Chicken Shawarma with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a Middle Eastern flair.
Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef Melt if you crave gooey beef-and-cheese goodness.

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne for a comfort meal in pasta form.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest sandwich board so you can make it anytime you’re craving something melty and delicious: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

And tell me in the comments—did you use cheddar instead of mozzarella? Add caramelized onions? I’d love to hear your twist on this grilled panini.

Let’s keep sharing and inspire each other to get creative in the kitchen!

Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 18 minutes

Yield: 2 sandwiches

Print Recipe

Description

This Grilled Chicken Panini Sandwich is a warm, melty, flavor-packed meal made with juicy shredded chicken, gooey mozzarella, sweet barbecue sauce, and crispy buttered bread. Perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner, this panini delivers comforting bistro-style satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups cooked shredded chicken

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced

⅓ cup barbecue sauce

1 tablespoon chopped parsley or chives (optional)

4 slices thick-cut bread (sourdough or Texas toast)

2 tablespoons butter, softened

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with barbecue sauce. Stir until well coated.

2. Butter one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, layer cheese, chicken mixture, and herbs (if using). Top with more cheese and close the sandwich with another slice, buttered side out.

3. Heat a panini press or grill pan over medium heat. Place the sandwich and press down. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

4. Remove from grill, rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve hot.