Tandoori Chicken Panini is a delicious fusion of Indian and Italian flavors, bringing together the spicy, aromatic taste of tandoori chicken with the comforting, melty goodness of a classic panini. This sandwich features tender, marinated chicken, grilled to perfection, and then layered with fresh veggies and gooey cheese between two slices of crusty bread. The result is a warm, flavorful panini with a crispy exterior and a burst of exotic flavors in every bite. Perfect for lunch or a quick dinner, this Tandoori Chicken Panini is a delightful way to enjoy a new twist on a classic sandwich.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons tandoori spice mix
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 slices of crusty bread (like ciabatta or sourdough)
- 4 slices of mozzarella or provolone cheese
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- Butter for spreading on the bread
Instructions:
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, tandoori spice mix, lemon juice, and olive oil. Add the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and charred in spots. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.
- Assemble the panini: Lay out the bread slices and butter one side of each slice. On the unbuttered side, layer the sliced chicken, cheese, red onion, cucumber, and fresh cilantro leaves. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side out.
- Grill the panini: Heat a panini press or a large skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the press or skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted. If using a skillet, press down on the sandwich with a spatula or another heavy pan to achieve a crispy crust.
- Serve: Remove the panini from the press or skillet, let it cool slightly, then slice it in half. Serve hot.
Tandoori Chicken Panini is a mouthwatering blend of flavors and textures that will elevate your sandwich game. With its spicy chicken, fresh veggies, and melted cheese, it’s a perfect meal for any time of day!
