Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich Recipe
If you are on the hunt for a sandwich that truly marries rustic charm with gourmet flair, look no further than the Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich. This delightful creation features soft, airy focaccia bursting with savory olive oil and fragrant rosemary, perfectly layered with grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, peppery arugula, and a luscious sun-dried tomato spread. Every bite delivers a beautiful contrast between crisp crust and tender crumb, finishing with a touch of balsamic glaze that elevates the flavors to a whole new level. The Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich is a celebration of textures and tastes that feels both comforting and elegant, making it an irresistible treat for lunch or a casual dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Each element plays an essential role—from the crusty, herb-infused bread to the fresh, vibrant fillings shaping the perfect bite.
- Focaccia bread: Choose a freshly baked loaf infused with rosemary and olive oil for that signature airy structure and fragrant flavor.
- Grilled chicken breast: Tender and smoky, it adds savory, protein-rich substance to the sandwich.
- Fresh mozzarella: Creamy and mild, it balances the stronger flavors and adds wonderful richness.
- Arugula: Peppery and crisp, it provides a fresh, slightly spicy lift that brightens each bite.
- Sun-dried tomato spread: Holds a sweet, tangy intensity that complements the milder ingredients perfectly.
- Olive oil: Used to brush the focaccia, enhancing moisture and adding a silky depth of flavor.
- Fresh rosemary: Sprinkled on the focaccia, delivering an aromatic herbal note.
- Balsamic glaze: A glossy drizzle that adds touch of sweet acidity and a visually appealing finish.
- Salt and pepper: To season the grilled chicken and adjust seasoning throughout.
How to Make Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich
Step 1: Prepare the Focaccia
Start with slicing the focaccia horizontally so you have two even halves. Lightly brush both cut sides with olive oil and sprinkle fresh rosemary over to intensify the herbaceous aroma. Toast the slices gently in the oven or on a grill pan until golden and crisp on the edges but still soft inside. This dual texture brings out the best in the sandwich experience.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil for moisture. Grill it over medium-high heat until cooked through with beautiful grill marks, about 5–7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly. This step ensures juicy slices that meld wonderfully with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Spread a generous layer of sun-dried tomato spread on the bottom half of the focaccia. Layer the grilled chicken slices evenly over the spread, then add thick slices of fresh mozzarella. Pile on a handful of arugula leaves to introduce crunch and a peppery bite. Finally, place the top focaccia piece over the fillings to complete the sandwich structure.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch
For an elegant finish, drizzle the assembled sandwich with a light balsamic glaze. This adds a subtle sweetness and a splash of acidity that balances the richness of the cheese and chicken, lifting every mouthful to a new level of deliciousness.
How to Serve Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top can add an extra pop of flavor and aesthetics. A dash of cracked black pepper over the arugula freshens the overall taste, making the sandwich even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs beautifully with crisp, lightly dressed mixed greens for a fresh contrast or a hot bowl of tomato basil soup to continue the Italian-inspired theme. Roasted vegetables or simple kettle-cooked chips also complement the savory, layered flavors without overpowering the focal sandwich.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich into smaller, tapered wedges for a casual party platter. Alternatively, serve it open-faced on a rustic cutting board garnished with a small ramekin of extra sun-dried tomato spread on the side—perfect for sharing and dipping!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich, wrap it tightly in parchment paper followed by plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. This method protects the bread’s texture while keeping the ingredients fresh. Consume within 2 days for optimal taste.
Freezing
Freezing the fully assembled sandwich is not recommended as the fresh ingredients can lose their texture and flavor. Instead, freeze the focaccia bread separately in an airtight bag for up to 3 months, then prepare the fillings fresh when ready to enjoy the sandwich again.
Reheating
To reheat, remove any fresh greens first and warm the sandwich in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the bread crisps up and the cheese softens slightly. Re-add the arugula or any greens afterward for maximum freshness.
FAQs
Can I make the Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the grilled chicken with marinated grilled vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or portobello mushrooms. The fresh mozzarella, sun-dried tomato spread, and herbs carry plenty of flavor to keep the sandwich satisfying without meat.
What type of focaccia is best for this sandwich?
Choose a focaccia that is not overly dense, with a light, airy crumb and a crisp, olive oil-enriched crust. Traditional rosemary focaccia works perfectly, ensuring each bite is fragrant, soft inside, and pleasantly chewy outside.
Can I prepare the sandwich in advance for a picnic?
You can prepare most components ahead, but for the best texture, assemble the sandwich just before serving. Keep the ingredients chilled separately, especially the arugula and mozzarella, to prevent sogginess and maintain freshness.
Is balsamic glaze necessary?
While the sandwich is delicious without it, balsamic glaze adds a wonderful sweet-acidic punch that ties all the flavors together beautifully. It also adds an eye-catching glossy finish that makes the sandwich feel special.
Can I use other herbs besides rosemary in the focaccia?
Rosemary is traditional and pairs beautifully with the other flavors, but thyme, oregano, or fresh basil can also be excellent choices. Experiment to find your favorite herb combination that enhances your Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich.
Final Thoughts
Creating and savoring a Garlic Herb Focaccia Sandwich feels like a small celebration of simple, fresh ingredients brought together with care. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family meal or an elegant lunch with friends, this sandwich promises layers of flavor and textures that delight every time. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to favorite!
