If you’ve ever dreamed of a sandwich that’s equal parts indulgent and packed with flavor, the Marilyn Monroe Panini – Chicken & Pepperoni Grilled Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine layers of tender deli chicken, spicy pepperoni, and melty mozzarella cheese pressed between soft sourdough bread with a golden, garlicky crust, all served alongside warm pizza sauce for dipping. This recipe wraps up comfort and excitement in every bite, making it the ultimate go-to grilled cheese twist for those who love a little savory kick.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the balance of flavors and textures in this delightful sandwich. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, bringing a unique note to the Marilyn Monroe Panini – Chicken & Pepperoni Grilled Cheese Recipe that turns a simple meal into a memorable one.
- Pepperidge Farms Soft Sourdough bread: The soft texture and slight tang of sourdough perfectly complement the rich fillings while holding up well when grilled.
- Pepperoni slices: Five slices add a wonderful spicy, smoky flavor and a hint of crispness when pressed into the bread.
- Mozzarella cheese slices: Two slices melt so beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey texture every grilled cheese dreams of.
- Deli chicken meat slices: The five slices contribute tender protein and subtle flavor, balancing the pepperoni’s zing.
- Butter: Used to crisp up the bread and add richness; this is what will give the sandwich that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Garlic powder: A sprinkle on the buttered bread adds an extra layer of aromatic depth and flavor.
- Pizza sauce: Heated and served alongside as a savory dip, it perfectly complements the grilled sandwich’s flavors.
How to Make Marilyn Monroe Panini – Chicken & Pepperoni Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Cheese Layers
Start by spreading butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. Then, lightly sprinkle garlic powder over the butter to infuse the sandwich with that irresistible garlicky aroma. Next, place a slice of mozzarella cheese on the unbuttered side of each bread slice. This cheese placement ensures it melts nicely inside without getting greasy on the outside.
Step 2: Add the Meats
On top of one slice, piled right over the cheese, lay down your pepperoni slices evenly, then top with the deli chicken slices. The stacking order helps each bite explode with layers of flavor – spicy, savory, and cheesy all at once.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Carefully place the second slice of bread on top, butter-side facing upward. This setup is what will create the crunchy, golden exterior we all crave in the Marilyn Monroe Panini – Chicken & Pepperoni Grilled Cheese Recipe.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Heat a grill pan over medium heat. Place the sandwich butter-side down without delay, using a grill press if you have one to press the sandwich firmly and evenly. Grill until the bottom is golden brown, carefully flip, and cook the other side until equally crisp and the mozzarella is melted within. This step brings everything together for that perfect texture and mouthwatering aroma.
Step 5: Serve with Warm Pizza Sauce
Remove the panini from heat and serve immediately with a small bowl of heated pizza sauce on the side. The warm, tangy sauce elevates the sandwich with its dipping delight, creating a restaurant-worthy experience in your own kitchen.
How to Serve Marilyn Monroe Panini – Chicken & Pepperoni Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil or chopped parsley adds a splash of color and a fresh herbal contrast to the rich sandwich. For an extra zing, a dash of red pepper flakes can awaken the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
Pair your Marilyn Monroe Panini – Chicken & Pepperoni Grilled Cheese Recipe with a crisp green salad or a simple tomato soup to complement the richness of the sandwich and add some refreshing balance. Crispy fries or garlic-roasted potatoes also work beautifully for those wanting a more indulgent side.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the panini diagonally to showcase all those layers and make it easier to dip. For a fun twist, serve mini versions as party sliders or slice into sticks as dipping bites. Wrapping it with parchment paper can give it a charming café feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Marilyn Monroe Panini – Chicken & Pepperoni Grilled Cheese Recipe, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days to savor the freshness of the bread and cheese.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but ungrilled sandwich by wrapping it in plastic and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before grilling. This method keeps everything fresh and saves you time on busy days.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is on a skillet over medium heat, pressing gently and flipping to ensure the bread crisps up again while the cheese melts perfectly. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the sandwich from becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I substitute mozzarella with another cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella melts wonderfully, provolone or Monterey Jack are excellent alternatives that provide great melting quality with their own unique flavors.
Is deli chicken necessary or can I use cooked chicken breast?
Using deli chicken keeps things quick and easy, but cooked, sliced chicken breast works great too – just make sure it’s well seasoned to maintain the sandwich’s flavor balance.
What type of bread works best for this panini?
Soft sourdough is ideal because of its slight tang and ability to crisp without getting too hard. However, other breads like ciabatta or focaccia can also work, just keep them on the softer side.
Can I make this panini vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the chicken and pepperoni and add grilled veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers paired with plenty of melted cheese for a satisfying veggie option.
How spicy is this sandwich?
The pepperoni adds a mild spicy kick, but it’s nowhere near overpowering. If you prefer more heat, you can add crushed red pepper or swap for a spicier variety of pepperoni.
Final Thoughts
The Marilyn Monroe Panini – Chicken & Pepperoni Grilled Cheese Recipe is a wonderfully satisfying blend of textures and flavors, perfect for a quick lunch or an indulgent snack. Its ease and deliciousness make it a staple you’ll want to reach for again and again. Give it a try and watch how this humble sandwich becomes your new favorite comfort food!
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Marilyn Monroe Panini – Chicken & Pepperoni Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
The Marilyn Monroe Panini is a deliciously indulgent grilled cheese sandwich featuring soft sourdough bread layered with pepperoni, deli chicken, and gooey mozzarella cheese. Buttered and seasoned with garlic powder, it’s grilled to golden perfection and served with warm pizza sauce for dipping—a perfect savory snack or quick meal.
Ingredients
Bread & Butter
- 2 slices Pepperidge Farms Soft Sourdough bread
- Butter, enough to spread on bread slices
- Garlic powder, to sprinkle
Fillings
- 5 slices pepperoni
- 5 slices deli chicken meat
- 2 slices mozzarella cheese
Dipping Sauce
- Pizza sauce, warmed, for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Spread butter generously on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. Sprinkle garlic powder evenly over the buttered sides for a flavorful crust. On the non-buttered side of each slice, place one slice of mozzarella cheese.
- Assemble the sandwich: On the cheese of one bread slice, layer the pepperoni slices evenly, followed by the deli chicken slices. Carefully place the second bread slice on top with the buttered side facing up, forming a sandwich with the fillings inside.
- Grill the sandwich: Heat a grill pan over medium heat. Place the sandwich butter-side down onto the pan. Using a grill press or a heavy spatula, press down on the sandwich to ensure even grilling. After the bottom is golden brown, carefully flip the sandwich and grill the other side until it reaches a golden brown color and the cheese melts thoroughly.
- Serve: Remove the sandwich from the pan and let it rest for a minute. Serve immediately with warmed pizza sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Using a grill press helps achieve an evenly toasted crust and melts the cheese perfectly.
- If you don’t have deli chicken, roasted or grilled chicken slices work as great substitutes.
- For a spicier kick, add a few jalapeño slices inside the sandwich before grilling.
- Warm the pizza sauce gently on the stove or microwave for the best dipping experience.
- To avoid sogginess, ensure the sauce is served separately rather than inside the sandwich.
