Are you ready to elevate your sandwich game to a whole new level? The Balsamic Goat Cheese Chicken Sandwich is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests! With juicy, perfectly cooked chicken, creamy goat cheese, and a sweet-tangy balsamic reduction, this sandwich is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch gathering, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Read on to discover how to create this delicious masterpiece in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 4 oz goat cheese
- 4 whole grain sandwich rolls
- 2 cups arugula
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the chicken breasts for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are golden brown and fully cooked through.
- While chicken is cooking, pour balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat, reducing it by half until it becomes slightly syrupy and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 3-4 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice each chicken breast diagonally into thin strips.
- Lightly toast the whole grain sandwich rolls to add crispness and enhance flavor.
- Spread soft goat cheese evenly on the bottom half of each toasted roll.
- Layer sliced chicken on top of the goat cheese.
- Drizzle reduced balsamic vinegar over the chicken.
- Top with fresh arugula leaves.
- Close sandwiches with top halves of rolls and slice diagonally if desired.
- Serve immediately while chicken is still warm and arugula is crisp.
Tips
- Perfectly Seasoned Chicken: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Seasoning the chicken breasts well enhances the overall flavor of the sandwich.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Reduce the Balsamic Vinegar: Keep an eye on the balsamic vinegar as it simmers; you want it to become syrupy but not burnt. This reduction adds a rich flavor that complements the goat cheese beautifully.
- Toast the Rolls: Lightly toasting the whole grain sandwich rolls not only adds crunch but also helps prevent the bread from becoming soggy once the goat cheese and balsamic are added.
- Fresh Arugula: For the best flavor, use fresh arugula. Its peppery taste adds a wonderful contrast to the richness of the goat cheese and chicken.
- Assembly Matters: When assembling the sandwich, layer the ingredients thoughtfully. Start with the goat cheese, followed by the chicken and balsamic drizzle, and finish with arugula for the perfect bite every time.
- Serve Immediately: These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh. Serve them right after assembling to keep the chicken warm and the arugula crisp!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
