Craving a taste of the Caribbean without leaving the comfort of your home? Look no further than this delicious and satisfying recipe for Cuban Chicken Panini. Packed with flavorful ingredients and easy to make, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your weekly meal rotation. Whether you are hosting a casual lunch with friends or simply want to enjoy a cozy night in, these paninis will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Cuba.
**Cuban Chicken Panini**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
– 8 slices Swiss cheese
– 8 slices ham
– 8 slices pickles
– 8 slices Cuban bread or ciabatta
– Butter for grilling
**Instructions:**
1. Start by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, ideally longer for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side or until they are cooked through. Remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
4. Assemble your paninis by spreading a layer of Dijon mustard on one side of each bread slice. On the other side, layer a slice of Swiss cheese, a slice of ham, a few slices of chicken, and a couple of pickles.
5. Close the sandwiches with the mustard side facing the filling. Lightly butter the outer sides of the bread.
6. Heat a panini press, grill pan, or skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches on the heated surface and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Once done, remove the paninis from the heat and let them rest for a minute before slicing them diagonally.
8. Serve your Cuban Chicken Paninis warm and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors and textures.
Make your meal complete by serving these paninis alongside some crispy plantain chips or a side of black beans and rice. Whether you enjoy them for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack, these Cuban Chicken Paninis are sure to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of tropical flair to your table. Transport yourself to the colorful streets of Havana with this easy and flavorful recipe that is perfect for any occasion.
