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Crispy Bacon and Roast Chicken Focaccia with Fresh Pesto Recipe

Crispy Bacon and Roast Chicken Focaccia with Fresh Pesto Recipe


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4.8 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Succulent roast chicken focaccia marries crispy bacon and zesty fresh pesto in a Mediterranean-inspired sandwich that sings with flavor. Layers of aromatic herbs and savory ingredients promise you a delightful culinary escape with each mouthwatering bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 120 grams (4.2 ounces) leftover roast chicken
  • 46 rashers streaky bacon

Bread:

  • 4 slices focaccia

Condiments and Herbs:

  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 teaspoons chopped chives
  • ⅓ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Basil pesto
  • Handful rocket (arugula)
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Instructions

  1. Methodically tear cooked chicken into delicate, bite-sized fragments using two forks.
  2. Combine chicken fragments with creamy mayonnaise, zesty Dijon mustard, finely chopped chives, and season with salt and pepper until thoroughly integrated.
  3. Preheat a skillet to medium heat and carefully place focaccia halves face-down, toasting until edges transform into a golden-brown crisp (approximately 2-3 minutes).
  4. Lavishly spread vibrant basil pesto across both focaccia surfaces, ensuring complete coverage.
  5. Strategically arrange seasoned chicken mixture as the primary layer, followed by crisp bacon strips positioned for maximum flavor and texture.
  6. Scatter fresh rocket leaves generously over the bacon, creating a verdant and peppery landscape.
  7. Crown the creation by gently pressing the second focaccia half on top, allowing ingredients to meld together.
  8. Using a sharp knife, slice diagonally through the focaccia, creating two triangular portions ready for immediate consumption.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce calories and add protein.
  • Crisp bacon beforehand and let it drain on paper towels to remove excess grease for maximum crunchiness.
  • Experiment with herb variations in pesto like adding parsley or mint for unique flavor profiles.
  • Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free focaccia or replace with lettuce wrap for a low-carb alternative.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 590
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 24g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 41g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg