Delicious and Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Panini Recipe
Are you a fan of sandwiches? Do you love bold flavors and delicious paninis that hit the spot every time? Well, have I got the recipe for you! Introducing the Chicken Bacon Ranch Panini Recipe – a mouthwatering combination of juicy chicken, crisp bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and gooey cheese all sandwiched between two slices of crispy bread. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or even as a hearty dinner option. Trust me when I say that this truly is the best panini recipe out there. Here’s why you should give it a shot.
Firstly, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you’ll have a restaurant-quality panini ready in no time. The combination of bold seasonings like cumin, paprika, and garlic powder make for an amazing flavor profile that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Secondly, this recipe is versatile and adaptable to suit your preferences. Not a fan of spicy food? Simply omit the cayenne pepper and chili powder from the ingredient list. Looking to add some extra veggies to your panini? Feel free to toss in some sliced onions or green peppers for an added crunch.
And finally, one of the best things about this recipe is its ability to be customized to fit any occasion or catering need. Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party or simply looking for an easy lunch option, the Chicken Bacon Ranch Panini Recipe has got you covered. Plus, it’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters at your table.
So go ahead, get your hands on those ingredients and let’s start cooking up some deliciousness! Trust me when I say that once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a household favorite – enjoyed by everyone from kids to adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of delicious and easy-to-prepare meals, then this Chicken Bacon Ranch Panini Recipe is perfect for you! This recipe is everything you can ask for as it satisfies all the cravings- tender chicken, crispy bacon, and melty cheese are all combined inside crispy bread that has been toasted to perfection with softened butter.
What makes this recipe truly extraordinary is the addition of ranch dressing. The combination of bacon and ranch dressing is an undeniable classic that elevates any dish to new heights. And when paired with grilled chicken, it creates an unforgettable taste. The smoky flavor of the bacon contrasts perfectly with the tanginess of the ranch dressing and adds a delicious zing to every bite.
But wait, there’s more! This recipe can easily be customized according to your taste preferences. For instance, if you love spicy food, adding some cumin or chili powder would give your sandwich a spicy kick. If you’re not a fan of ranch dressing, substitute it with your favorite sauce or condiment like honey mustard, chipotle mayo or tahini.
Moreover, these sandwiches are so versatile that they can be enjoyed at any time of the day – be it for lunch, dinner or as a snack. They are also perfect for hosting get-togethers or serving as party appetizers. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser meaning that once prepared, they won’t last long once everyone has tasted them.
In summary, this recipe offers a perfect balance between flavors, texture and convenience. So go ahead and test out our Chicken Bacon Ranch Panini Recipe; your taste buds will thank you for the explosion of irresistible flavors!
Ingredient List
Here’s the ingredient list for our mouth-watering Chicken Bacon Ranch Panini Recipe.
For The Chipotle Chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts, cut in half from top to bottom
- 1 tsp of cumin
- 1 tsp of paprika
- 1/2 tsp of cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp of onion powder
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1/2 tsp of black pepper
- 1/4 tsp of white pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
For The Rest Of The Panini:
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and cut in half
- Spicy Mustard
- Ranch Dressing
- 4 slices of Monterey Jack Cheese
- 8 slices of crusty bread (French Bread or any good-quality chewy bread will work)
Be sure to grab all the ingredients from your nearest grocery store before you get started. Enjoy!
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Chop 2 whole chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix together 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Coat the chicken in the spice mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Bacon
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the coated chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Using the same pan, cook 8 slices of bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and place onto paper towels to drain.
Step 3: Assemble the Panini
On a slice of bread, spread a thin layer of ranch dressing. Then, add on top of that about 1/4 cup of your cooked chicken. Next, add on a slice of Monterey Jack cheese and two strips of bacon (Note: For spicier flavor, you can use Pepper Jack cheese instead). Lastly, add some diced tomato, chopped green pepper, and any other additional toppings you prefer.
Spread a thin layer of spicy mustard on another slice of bread and place it on top of your first slice to make a sandwich. Repeat these steps for each additional panini you plan to make.
Step 4: Grill Your Panini
Preheat your Panini press to medium-high heat or roughly around 375F. Brush both sides of your panini with olive oil. Place your sandwich onto your preheated Panini press and lower the lid (or use another method such as a grill pan). Cook until cheese is melted, bacon is heated through and bread is crispy for about 5 minutes per side(or shorter depending on your equipment).
Repeat these steps with each remaining sandwich.
Serve hot!
Substitutions and Variations
One of the joys of cooking is experimenting with new ingredients and flavors. Below are some suggestions for substitutions and variations to make this chicken bacon ranch panini recipe your own.
– Chipotle chicken: Instead of plain grilled chicken, use chipotle chicken for a spicy, smoky twist on this classic recipe. You can easily make your own chipotle seasoning by mixing cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
– Colby Jack cheese: If you can’t find Monterey Jack cheese at your local store, feel free to substitute with Colby Jack cheese or any other mild cheddar cheese.
– Spicy mustard: For an extra kick of heat, add a tablespoon of spicy mustard to the ranch dressing mixture.
– Avocado panini sandwich: For a healthier version of this recipe, swap out the bread for a slice of whole wheat bread and add some sliced avocado to the sandwich for healthy fats and creaminess.
– Bacon Cheddar Chipotle Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Turn this recipe into a grilled cheese sandwich by switching out the chicken for bacon and adding 2 slices cheddar cheese to each panini. Mix in 1 tbsp. of sour cream with the ranch dressing to give it a tangy flavor that complements the bacon and chipotle seasoning.
No matter which way you decide to mix things up, don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it! The possibilities are endless when it comes to making delicious sandwiches like these.
Serving and Pairing
Once these sizzling Chicken Bacon Ranch Paninis have made their way out of the press, it’s time to serve them. These hearty little sandwiches make for perfectly balanced lunches that are both filling and satisfying. With a crispy exterior and soft, warm inside, these paninis are guaranteed to satisfy any sandwich craving you might have had.
These delicious paninis pair well with a variety of sides, such as sweet potato fries, mixed greens salad, or even a cup of creamy tomato soup for dipping. Pairing them with sweet corn on the cob, ripe cherry tomatoes or even grilled zucchini would also make a fantastic combination that is perfect for any summer picnic.
Whether you choose to enjoy them at home or take them to go, chicken bacon ranch paninis always hit the spot. They are a great choice for lunch boxes, weekend picnics, game-day gatherings or family dinners. The endless pairing possibilities make these sandwiches suitable for any occasion and palate.
So why not surprise your friends and loved ones by serving up some of these delicious paninis at your next gathering? I guarantee they’ll love the flavor-packed experience!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Panini recipe is perfect for making ahead of time and serving later or storing leftovers for another meal. Here are some tips for make-ahead, storing, and reheating:
Make-ahead:
You can prepare the baked chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can also assemble the sandwiches and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate the sandwiches up to 24 hours ahead of time. When you are ready to serve, cook the sandwiches in a panini press or grill until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
Storing:
If you have leftover sandwiches, remove any sauces or toppings that may soak into the bread and cause it to become soggy. Wrap each sandwich individually with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container or bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
To reheat sandwiches, remove them from the fridge and let them come to room temperature before reheating. You can use a panini press or grill to reheat the sandwich until heated through and cheese is melted. Alternatively, you can use a microwave but be warned that it might make the bread soggy.
By following these tips, you can enjoy these delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Paninis anytime without worrying about the hassle of cooking and assembling at the last minute!
Tips for Perfect Results
When making the Chicken Bacon Ranch Panini, there are a few tips that can help you achieve perfect results every time. Here are some of my favorite tips!
First and foremost, make sure the chicken breasts are cooked all the way through before assembling the paninis. Undercooked chicken is not only unsafe to eat, but can also ruin the flavor of your dish.
Another important tip is to not overstuff your paninis. While it may be tempting to pile on all your favorite ingredients, too much filling can cause the bread to become soggy and fall apart. Stick to just a few essential ingredients for the best texture and taste.
When grilling the paninis, use a heavy cast iron skillet or a panini press for even cooking and crispy bread. This will also help melt the cheese evenly and create those delicious grill marks.
For extra flavor, try using chipotle chicken instead of regular grilled chicken. The smoky, spicy flavor pairs perfectly with the tangy ranch dressing and salty bacon.
Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with substitutions and variations! Swap out the type of cheese used, try different types of bread, or add in some sliced avocado for an extra creamy texture. The possibilities are endless when it comes to this versatile and delicious sandwich.
By following these tips and experimenting with different variations, you’ll be able to create perfect Chicken Bacon Ranch Paninis every time!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Chicken Bacon Ranch Panini Recipe is a must-try for all home chefs looking to impress their guests. With its juicy grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, this panini is bursting with flavor and texture that will leave your taste buds asking for more. The delicious combination of spices such as cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper make this recipe a standout among other chicken bacon paninis.
Moreover, the versatility of this recipe allows for substitutions and variations depending on personal preferences. You can substitute the chicken breasts for chipotle chicken or add avocado to create a mouthwatering avocado panini sandwich. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.
Lastly, this recipe is perfect for any occasion – from a casual lunch to a dinner party. Its make-ahead options allow for stress-free entertaining while the storing and reheating tips ensure leftovers taste just as fresh as when first made. Plus, with its endless pairing options, you can easily create a full meal by pairing it with your favorite sides or serving it alongside a refreshing drink.
Overall, the Chicken Bacon Ranch Panini Recipe is not only delicious but also simple and versatile – making it a must-have in every home chef’s recipe collection. Whether you are cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this chicken bacon ranch panini will surely satisfy everyone’s cravings. So grab some crusty bread, butter, and your preferred ingredients and let’s start cooking!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Panini Recipe
Ingredients
Panini
- 8 slices crusty French bread
- 4 tablespoons softened butter
- 2 whole chicken breasts, Cut In Half From Top To Bottom
- garlic powder
- salt
- pepper
- chili powder
- blackening seasoning
- red pepper
- spicy mustard
- peppercorn ranch dressing
- 4 slices thick monterey jack cheese
- 8 slices pepper bacon, Cooked Until Chewy And Cut In Half
- diced tomato
- diced onion
- diced green pepper
Blackening Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground basil
- 1 teaspoon ground thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (sea salt is better)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, red pepper, and the blackening seasoning.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil to a pan and cook the chicken breasts until cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Slice into strips or shred, and set aside.
- Cook the bacon.
- To assemble the sandwiches, spread a generous amount of mustard on one half of the bread. Spread a generous amount of ranch dressing on the other half. (Definitely be generous; when the sandwich cooks, these will turn into more of a "sauce.").
- Arrange chicken, bacon slices, and cheese slices on the bottom half. Top with the top slice. Butter both sides of the bread generously, then grill in the panini maker. (If you do not have a panini maker, you can grill the sandwiches in a skillet, laying a heavy skillet on top of the sandwich to press it together. Turn to grill the other side in the same way.).
- Slice in half and gobble it down immediately.
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Nutrition
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!