Mexican-Inspired Chicken Tortilla Soup

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Shamrock Pesto Chicken Sandwich

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Shamrock Pesto Chicken Sandwich

A fresh and flavorful grilled chicken sandwich topped with vibrant green basil-spinach pesto, melted Irish cheddar, and served on a toasted bun. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day


Ingredients  (4 Persons)

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved to make 4 pieces)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Shamrock Pesto:

  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
  • 1/4 cup grated Irish cheddar (or Parmesan)
  • 1/4 cup toasted walnuts (or pine nuts)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For Assembling the Sandwich:

  • 4 brioche or ciabatta buns
  • 4 slices Irish cheddar cheese
  • 1 tomato (sliced)
  • 1/2 cup arugula or lettuce
  • 2 tbsp mayo (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate & Cook the Chicken

  1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and lemon juice.
  2. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade and let sit for 10 minutes (or up to 1 hour for more flavor).
  3. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  4. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Irish cheddar on top of each piece and let it melt.

Step 2: Make the Shamrock Pesto

  1. In a food processor, blend together basil, spinach, Irish cheddar, toasted walnuts, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

  1. Toast the brioche or ciabatta buns until golden brown.
  2. Spread a layer of shamrock pesto on the bottom bun.
  3. Place the cheesy grilled chicken on top.
  4. Add sliced tomato and arugula (or lettuce).
  5. Optionally, spread mayo on the top bun for extra creaminess.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

  1. Serve hot with crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or a side of Irish coleslaw.

Bonus Tips

Extra Crunch? Add crispy bacon or fried onions.
Want More Green? Use pesto aioli (mix pesto + mayo).
Pairing? Serve with a cold Irish cider or a creamy stout beer.

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