Grilled Chicken Pesto Subs
If you’re looking for a mouthwatering meal that’s easy to whip up and bursting with flavor, look no further than these Grilled Chicken Pesto Subs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual lunch, this recipe combines tender, juicy grilled chicken breasts with zesty pesto, creamy American cheese, and a kick of heat from jalapeños. Nestled in a soft hoagie sub and topped with fresh arugula, these subs are a delight that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more. Let’s dive in and create a sandwich that will be the star of your next meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Grilled Chicken Pesto Subs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The pesto adds a rich, herby flavor that pairs perfectly with the grilled chicken, while the melted cheese adds creaminess to the mix. The additional toppings like jalapeños and arugula provide a fresh crunch and spice that elevate each bite. Plus, this recipe is a breeze to make, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet sandwich experience at home without spending hours in the kitchen.
Shopping List
- 4 chicken breasts
- Vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hoagie subs
- 1 cup pesto
- 8 slices of Land O Lakes Deli American cheese
- Jalapeños (fresh or pickled, according to your preference)
- Crushed red peppers
- Arugula
Gear Checklist
- Grill or grill pan – for perfectly grilling the chicken
- Tongs – to flip the chicken easily
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing the chicken and subs
- Meat thermometer – to ensure the chicken is cooked through
Grilled Chicken Pesto Subs: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of vegetable oil. This will help lock in moisture and flavor while grilling.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
Step 3: Slice the Chicken
After resting, slice the grilled chicken into strips. This will make it easier to layer onto the subs.
Step 4: Assemble the Subs
Take your hoagie sub rolls and spread a generous amount of pesto on the inside of each. Layer the sliced grilled chicken on top, followed by two slices of Land O Lakes Deli American cheese for that creamy goodness.
Step 5: Add Toppings
For an extra kick, add jalapeños according to your taste. If you love heat, sprinkle some crushed red peppers over the top. Finally, crown your creation with a handful of fresh arugula for a peppery crunch.
Step 6: Toast the Subs (Optional)
If you like your cheese melted and bread slightly crispy, place the assembled subs under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is bubbly and the bread is toasted to your liking.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice the subs in half for easier handling and serve immediately. These Grilled Chicken Pesto Subs are best enjoyed fresh, but they also store well for later if you have leftovers.
Health-Conscious Tweaks
- Use whole grain hoagie rolls for added fiber.
- Opt for low-fat cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re looking to cut calories.
- Add more vegetables such as sliced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Use homemade pesto with less oil or nuts to reduce the fat content while keeping flavor intact.
Behind-the-Scenes Notes
When making these Grilled Chicken Pesto Subs, feel free to experiment with different types of pesto. Basil pesto is classic, but you could try sun-dried tomato pesto or even spinach pesto for a unique twist. Additionally, marinating the chicken in pesto for a few hours before grilling can enhance the flavor even more.
- Consider grilling extra chicken to use in salads or wraps later in the week.
- Pair these subs with a side of sweet potato fries or a light salad for a complete meal.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you have leftover grilled chicken, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Simply reheat the chicken when you’re ready to enjoy your subs again. For meal prep, you can assemble the subs without the arugula and jalapeños, and add them fresh right before serving to keep everything crisp. These subs also make an excellent option for picnics or packed lunches.
Ask & Learn
Can I use a different type of cheese in these subs?
Absolutely! While Land O Lakes Deli American cheese adds a creamy texture, you can substitute it with provolone, mozzarella, or any cheese that melts well and complements the flavors of pesto.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook the chicken another way?
Yes! You can use a grill pan, skillet, or even bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, making sure to flip halfway through until fully cooked.
Can I make the pesto from scratch?
Definitely! Homemade pesto is simple to make. Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a fresh and vibrant flavor. You can adjust the ingredients to your taste!
How can I add more veggies to these subs?
You can add roasted red peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or even fresh spinach to the subs for a boost of nutrition and flavor. Feel free to be creative with your veggie choices!
You Might Also Like
- Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini Skillet – A comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy nights.
- Cheesy Chicken Pesto Pasta – A delicious pasta dish that brings together all your favorite flavors.
Make It Tonight
These Grilled Chicken Pesto Subs are calling your name! With their vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, they’re sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Gather your ingredients, fire up that grill, and treat yourself to a sandwich that feels like a gourmet experience without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, these subs will definitely impress. Happy cooking!
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Grilled Chicken Pesto Subs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of vegetable oil.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, grill the seasoned chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
- Spread a generous amount of pesto inside each hoagie sub roll. Layer the sliced grilled chicken on top, followed by two slices of cheese.
- Add jalapeños according to your taste and sprinkle crushed red peppers over the top. Top with fresh arugula.
- For melted cheese and crispy bread, place the assembled subs under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until bubbly.
- Slice the subs in half for easy handling and serve immediately.
Notes
- Experiment with different types of pesto for unique flavors.
- Consider grilling extra chicken for salads or wraps later.
- Pair these subs with sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
