The combination of warm, toasted bread, savory chicken, creamy shredded mozzarella, and the bright flavors of roasted tomatoes and Pesto makes this sandwich an irresistible treat.

This Caprese Chicken Sandwich is a delightful and flavorful fusion of Italian and American cuisine. This sandwich brings together the fresh, vibrant ingredients of a traditional Caprese salad and the hearty, satisfying elements of a chicken sandwich, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures!

A traditional caprese salad has basil, in place of that we are using pesto. You can buy or make it from scratch. Here is my recipe –10 minute Basil- Pesto Sauce

Okay, let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups Italian style breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 10 oz container of cherry tomatoes
• 1 head of garlic
• 4 sourdough ciabatta sandwich rolls/buns/or bread slices
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ¼ cup basil pesto – homemade or store bought
• Fresh arugula
• 1 ½ tbsp Olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes and Garlic

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the tomatoes and garlic in a baking dish.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, and pepper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. In a shallow dish, add the flour and season with salt, and pepper. In another,  the eggs, beaten.
2. The third dish, breadcrumbs.
3. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, move to the egg, then Italian breadcrumbs. Make sure to get the chicken coated all over and on both sides.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken breasts in the hot oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Or unitl the temp reachea 165 degrees.
6. Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil or drain on a baking rack with paper towels underneath. (My preferred method)

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

1. In a small bowl, mix the butter, squeeze the roasted garlic. Mix until well combined.
2. Spread the garlic mixture on both sides of the rolls.
3. Toast the rolls until lightly golden in the oven or on a skillet.

4.Spread a light smear of Pesto on the rolls.

5. A heaping handful of arugula, then the chicken.

Top with shredded cheese, roasted tomatoes, and the top half of the roll.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Caprese Chicken Sandwiches immediately with your favorite sides, such as French fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.

Enjoy your delicious and flavorful roasted tomato fried chicken sandwiches!