Grilled Balsamic Vinaigrette Sandwich Melt: A Flavorful Delight is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings together juicy chicken, melted cheese, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch or a satisfying dinner. Read on to discover how to create this mouthwatering sandwich that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients List for Grilled Balsamic Vinaigrette Sandwich Melt
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced (about 1 lb)
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 4 hearty sourdough or ciabatta rolls
- 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 Tbsp fresh thyme leaves
How To Make Grilled Balsamic Vinaigrette Sandwich Melt Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a shallow bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of honey (if using), 1 minced garlic clove, and a pinch of salt and pepper until emulsified.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the thinly sliced chicken breast to the vinaigrette, toss to coat, and let it sit at room temperature for 10–12 minutes.
Step 3: Toast the Rolls
Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the cut sides of each roll with a little olive oil, place them oil-side down on the hot pan, and grill for 1–2 minutes until golden brown and marked. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add a drizzle of oil to the same pan, spread the marinated chicken in a single layer, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until the chicken is opaque and lightly caramelized. Reduce the heat to medium, pour any remaining vinaigrette into the pan, stir, and simmer for 1 minute to glaze the chicken.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich
On the bottom half of each toasted roll, place a slice of provolone and a slice of mozzarella. Top with a generous portion of the glazed chicken, sprinkle with chopped basil and thyme, then close the sandwich.
Step 6: Grill the Sandwich
Return the sandwich to the grill pan, cover with a lid, and cook for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts and the roll is crisp.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the sandwiches, slice diagonally, and serve immediately with your choice of side.
Chef’s Notes & Pro Tips About Grilled Balsamic Vinaigrette Sandwich Melt
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil and thyme enhance the flavor, so opt for fresh rather than dried herbs whenever possible.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and proper searing.
- Experiment with bread: Swap sourdough or ciabatta rolls for your favorite type of bread, such as focaccia or even a hearty baguette.
- Grate the cheeses: For better melting and an even distribution, consider grating the provolone and mozzarella instead of using slices.
Reasons Why You’ll Love Grilled Balsamic Vinaigrette Sandwich Melt
- Quick and easy: This sandwich can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Flavor-packed: The combination of balsamic vinaigrette, melted cheese, and herbs creates a delightful explosion of flavors.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients or add extras like roasted vegetables or different proteins.
- Satisfying: It’s a hearty meal that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
Serving Suggestions for Grilled Balsamic Vinaigrette Sandwich Melt
Pair your Grilled Balsamic Vinaigrette Sandwich Melt with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. You can also serve it with pickles or a light fruit salad for a refreshing touch.
Tips For Success
- Marinate longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for a longer period, such as 30 minutes or more if you have the time.
- Cook to the right temperature: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Monitor the heat: Watch your grill pan closely to avoid burning the rolls or overcooking the chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer: This tool can help you check that your chicken is cooked perfectly without guesswork.
Flavor Variations
- Add spice: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a kick of heat.
- Cheese options: Try swapping provolone and mozzarella for gouda or cheddar for a different taste.
- Veggie lovers: Add grilled vegetables like peppers, onions, or zucchini to your sandwich for added nutrients and flavor.
- Switch the protein: Substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein for a different twist.
How To Store Grilled Balsamic Vinaigrette Sandwich Melt
- Refrigerate leftovers: Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Wrap individually: Wrap sandwiches in foil before refrigerating for easy reheating.
- Reheat in the oven: For the best texture, reheat your sandwich in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
- Avoid microwaving: Microwaving can make the bread soggy; reheating in an oven or grill pan is preferable.
- Prepare marinade ahead: Make the balsamic vinaigrette in advance and store it in the fridge for quick assembly later.
FAQs About Grilled Balsamic Vinaigrette Sandwich Melt
- Can I make this sandwich vegetarian? Yes! Simply replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or a plant-based protein.
- What type of cheese works best? Provolone and mozzarella are delicious, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses you enjoy.
- How can I enhance the flavor? Letting the chicken marinate for a longer time will increase the flavor depth. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices.
- Can I freeze this sandwich? While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately and assemble the sandwich when you’re ready to eat.
Closing Notes
The Grilled Balsamic Vinaigrette Sandwich Melt is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that is easy to put together. This recipe is ideal for families, gatherings, or quick lunches, and it gives you the chance to showcase your cooking skills without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. With its balance of savory chicken, gooey cheese, and fresh herbs, it promises to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Enjoy creating and savoring this delicious sandwich!
Grilled Balsamic Vinaigrette Sandwich Melt
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil Plus more for brushing
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey Optional
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Sandwich
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced About 1 lb
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 4 pieces hearty sourdough or ciabatta rolls
- 1 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 Tbsp fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
Preparation
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Add the thinly sliced chicken breast to the vinaigrette, toss to coat, and let it sit at room temperature for 10–12 minutes.
Cooking
- Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the cut sides of each roll with olive oil, place them oil-side down on the hot pan, and grill for 1–2 minutes until golden brown and marked.
- Remove the rolls and set aside.
- Add a drizzle of oil to the same pan, spread the marinated chicken in a single layer, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until the chicken is opaque and lightly caramelized.
- Reduce the heat to medium, pour any remaining vinaigrette into the pan, stir, and simmer for 1 minute to glaze the chicken.
Assembly and Serving
- On the bottom half of each toasted roll, place a slice of provolone and a slice of mozzarella.
- Top with a generous portion of the glazed chicken, sprinkle with chopped basil and thyme, then close the sandwich.
- Return the sandwich to the grill pan, cover with a lid, and cook for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts and the roll is crisp.
- Remove the sandwiches, slice diagonally, and serve immediately with your choice of side.
