Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich Recipe
If you’re looking for a sandwich that strikes the perfect balance between rustic charm and refined flavor, the Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich is an absolute must-try. Imagine biting into soft, airy focaccia bread infused with fragrant rosemary and olive oil, its crisp exterior giving way to a pillowy interior. Inside, layers of juicy grilled chicken, creamy fresh mozzarella, peppery arugula, and tangy sun-dried tomato spread come together in an irresistible harmony. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze adds that finishing touch, elevating every bite. This sandwich isn’t just any lunch option; it’s a celebration of fresh, high-quality ingredients and heartfelt cooking that’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich is surprisingly simple, but each one plays a crucial role in delivering those vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. From the herb-infused focaccia to the luscious toppings, everything works in perfect harmony.
- Focaccia bread: Choose a fresh, rosemary-infused focaccia for that signature soft and airy base with a hint of herbaceous aroma.
- Olive oil: Used both in the focaccia and for grilling the chicken, it adds richness and helps create a golden crust.
- Fresh rosemary: Infuses the bread with an earthy, pine-like fragrance that complements the sandwich fillings beautifully.
- Grilled chicken breast: Tender and juicy, it’s the hearty protein that makes this sandwich filling and satisfying.
- Fresh mozzarella cheese: Adds a creamy, mild touch that balances the stronger flavors perfectly.
- Arugula: Its peppery bite brings freshness and a bit of crunch to the sandwich layers.
- Sun-dried tomato spread: Offers a tangy and slightly sweet contrast that livens up every bite.
- Balsamic glaze: A drizzle on top adds a subtle acidity and glossy finish that ties all the ingredients together.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich
Step 1: Prepare the Focaccia
Start with a fresh rosemary focaccia, either homemade or from a good bakery. Slice the focaccia horizontally to create two even layers. This soft bread is the star here, so choose one with a tender crumb and just the right amount of crisp on the edges. Drizzle both cut sides lightly with olive oil to keep the bread moist and add extra flavor.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Season chicken breasts simply with salt, pepper, and a touch of olive oil. Grill them until perfectly cooked through and slightly charred on the outside for that smoky depth. Once rested, slice the chicken thinly so it layers easily and melds with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Spread a generous amount of sun-dried tomato spread on both halves of the focaccia. This tangy base is essential to balance richness and add some zing. Then layer on the grilled chicken slices, followed by thick slices of fresh mozzarella. Top with a handful of peppery arugula for a burst of freshness.
Step 4: Final Touch
Close the sandwich with the top focaccia layer and press down gently to meld everything together. Finish by drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze over the top or on the side for dipping. This glaze elevates the Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich to an entirely new level of deliciousness with its glossy, sweet acidity.
How to Serve Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance and freshness, garnish your Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper after slicing. Adding a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or a small bowl of sun-dried tomato spread on the side encourages guests to customize their bites just the way they like.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides to keep things balanced. Consider a crisp mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a simple bowl of herb-roasted potatoes for a hearty contrast. You can also serve it alongside a chilled gazpacho or a crunchy vegetable slaw for an added layer of texture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich to the next level by cutting it into smaller sliders for an appetizer spread or picnic setting. Wrap individual portions in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming presentation. You can also toast the sandwich slightly after assembly to melt the mozzarella just so, giving a warm, melty twist to this delightfully fresh sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of the Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to separate the sandwich layers if you want to keep the bread from getting soggy. Properly stored, the sandwich can remain fresh for up to two days.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s not ideal for this sandwich due to the delicate fresh mozzarella and arugula. If necessary, freeze the focaccia bread separately and thaw when ready to assemble. This keeps the bread fresh and lets you enjoy the Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich at its best.
Reheating
To reheat the sandwich, it’s best to remove the fresh ingredients like arugula and mozzarella first. Warm the focaccia and grilled chicken gently in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. Then add the fresh layers back on to preserve their texture and brightness when serving.
FAQs
Can I make Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the grilled chicken with roasted vegetables, such as eggplant or zucchini, or add marinated artichoke hearts for a hearty vegetarian option that still pairs beautifully with the mozzarella and sun-dried tomato spread.
What type of mozzarella is best for this sandwich?
Fresh mozzarella balls or logs are ideal because they melt slightly while maintaining a soft and creamy texture. Avoid pre-shredded mozzarella as it tends to dry out and lacks the luscious freshness needed for this sandwich.
Can I use store-bought focaccia?
Yes, using high-quality store-bought focaccia is a great shortcut if you’re short on time. Just look for one that is freshly baked with visible herbs like rosemary and has a tender crumb to mimic the homemade version’s texture and flavor.
How long does it take to grill the chicken?
Depending on thickness, grill the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes per side over medium heat until fully cooked and juices run clear. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juicy texture.
What can I substitute for sun-dried tomato spread?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomato spread on hand, you can make your own by blending sun-dried tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Alternatively, a roasted red pepper spread or simple pesto also complements the sandwich nicely.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich that makes it feel like a small celebration every time you take a bite. With its perfect harmony of soft, fragrant bread, juicy grilled chicken, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant fresh ingredients, it’s the kind of sandwich that comforts and excites all at once. I highly encourage you to try making it yourself and share it with the people you love—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite!
