Pesto Chicken Burger on Ciabatta Bread Served with Quick Coleslaw

The Pesto Chicken Burger: A Flavorful Italian Twist on a Classic

Incorporating a distinctive Italian flair, the Pesto Chicken Burger offers a delightful alternative to traditional beef patties. Constructed from tender, ground white meat chicken, these burgers are elevated by a generous drizzle of rich pesto sauce and presented between slices of rustic Italian ciabatta bread. Pesto, a classic Italian condiment, is crafted from a mélange of fresh basil, garlic, toasted pine nuts, premium olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, and is now readily available in jars at most grocery stores, providing a convenient option for home cooks.

The ciabatta bread, originating from the Veneto region of Italy, features a light and airy composition with ample soft air pockets. This texture not only adds a delicate crunch but also complements the chicken patty perfectly. For those looking to create a quick yet refreshing side dish, a simple coleslaw made from pre-packaged fresh coleslaw mix found in the produce section pairs beautifully with this gourmet burger.

Helpful tips for preparing this dish include ensuring the use of ground white meat chicken breast for a lean option, opting for any type of thick bread if ciabatta is unavailable, and allowing the burger to rest in the skillet for four minutes before flipping to achieve a beautifully formed crust.

Preparation is straightforward, comprising a few essential steps. Begin by preparing the ingredients, then sauté the burger patties while simultaneously whipping up the coleslaw. The shopping list includes:

– 3/4 pound of ground chicken breast
– 1 small container of pesto sauce
– 1 package of ciabatta bread (4 slices required)
– 1 can of olive oil spray
– 1 medium tomato
– 1 small head of lettuce
– 1 bag of ready-to-eat coleslaw mix
– Olive oil, salt, and black peppercorns

For the burger, mix the ground chicken with two tablespoons of the prepared pesto sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper. Form the mixture into patties and cook in a preheated skillet with olive oil for approximately four minutes on each side, ensuring a minimum internal temperature of 165 to 170 degrees Fahrenheit is reached. For the ciabatta, a light spray of olive oil and toasting enhances its flavor and texture.

The burger is assembled by placing the cooked chicken patty on the toasted bread, topped with the remaining pesto, a slice of tomato, and fresh lettuce, all encased by the ciabatta to deliver a delightful culinary experience.

This dish serves two and each serving contains approximately 511 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown that includes 24.4 grams of fat and 47.9 grams of protein.

For a quick and easy side, the coleslaw requires mixing two cups of the pre-washed coleslaw mix with a quarter cup of reduced-fat salad dressing, creating a light accompaniment that perfectly balances the burger.

With its unique flavor profile and simple preparation, the Pesto Chicken Burger represents an accessible yet sophisticated meal option, suitable for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.

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