Savory Crispy Chicken with Romesco Sauce on Focaccia

This Crunchy Chicken Romesco Sandwich is an explosion of textures and flavors in every bite. The crispy panko-coated chicken pairs perfectly with the tangy, smoky romesco sauce, while the zingy salad adds a refreshing balance. All this deliciousness is layered on toasted focaccia for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is indulgent.

Whether you’re planning a summer picnic or looking for a quick yet impressive lunch, this sandwich is a versatile and crowd-pleasing choice. Its bold flavors and rustic charm make it an irresistible favorite that’s guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds.

Full Recipe:

  • 2 chicken breasts (sliced horizontally into 4 cutlets)
  • 50g flour
  • 1 egg (whisked)
  • 50g panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the romesco sauce:

  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 2 jarred roasted red bell peppers
  • 4 sun-dried tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp almonds
  • ½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 4 tbsp olive oil (adjust for blending)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tsp kosher salt

For the salad:

  • 2 tbsp sour cream
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise
  • ½ lemon (juiced)
  • 1 tbsp grated parmesan
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 5 gem lettuce leaves (finely chopped)
  • A handful of rocket (arugula)

For the bread:

  • 2 focaccia loaves (sandwich-sized)
  • 4 tbsp butter (room temperature)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 5g parsley (finely chopped)
  • Grated parmesan

Directions:

  1. Prepare chicken cutlets by coating each in flour, then egg wash, and finally panko breadcrumbs. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and fry cutlets for 4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
  2. In a blender, combine all romesco sauce ingredients and blend until smooth, adding more olive oil if needed. Set aside.
  3. Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, parmesan, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss lettuce and rocket into the mixture until coated.
  4. For the focaccia, mix butter, garlic, and parsley. Spread this on both halves of each focaccia loaf. Grate parmesan generously over the buttered halves. Grill until bubbling and golden.
  5. Spread romesco sauce on both sides of the grilled focaccia. Assemble the sandwich by layering chicken cutlets, salad mixture, and the top half of the bread. Repeat for the second sandwich.
  6. Wrap sandwiches in parchment paper for immediate serving or refrigerate for later.

Prep Time: 20 minutes / Cooking Time: 10 minutes / Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 1216 kcal / Servings: 2

Crunchy Chicken Romesco Sandwich: A Flavorful Delight for Any Occasion

The Crunchy Chicken Romesco Sandwich is a masterful combination of texture, flavor, and aroma that can elevate any meal. From its perfectly crispy chicken to its smoky, tangy romesco sauce and fresh, zingy salad, every component comes together to create an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re planning a picnic, hosting a casual get-together, or simply looking for a quick yet satisfying meal, this sandwich has you covered.

A Brief History of Romesco Sauce

Originating from the Tarragona region of Catalonia, Spain, romesco sauce has long been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. Traditionally made with roasted red peppers, almonds, olive oil, garlic, and vinegar, it’s a sauce that was originally paired with fish. Over time, its versatility has made it a favorite accompaniment to vegetables, meats, and even sandwiches like this one. The smoky depth of romesco sauce makes it the perfect complement to crispy chicken and freshly baked focaccia in this recipe.

The Magic of Crispy Panko Chicken

The crunch of the panko-coated chicken cutlets is truly the heart of this dish. Panko breadcrumbs, a staple in Japanese cooking, provide an unmatched crispiness that traditional breadcrumbs often lack. When combined with the tender juiciness of chicken, it creates a textural contrast that is as satisfying to the palate as it is to the ears with every bite.

Why Focaccia Bread Makes All the Difference

The bread you choose for a sandwich can make or break the entire dish, and focaccia is the ideal choice here. Its soft, airy interior and slightly crispy crust are enhanced by the addition of garlic butter and melted parmesan in this recipe. This grilled focaccia not only provides a sturdy base for the sandwich but also adds a layer of richness that ties all the flavors together.

Balancing Flavors with a Zingy Salad

The addition of a zingy salad made with sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, parmesan, and pepper provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the chicken and bread. The crispness of fresh lettuce and rocket (arugula) not only adds a crunchy texture but also a burst of vibrant flavor that cuts through the heaviness of the other components. This balance of richness and freshness is key to making this sandwich so irresistible.

Versatility and Adaptability

One of the greatest aspects of this sandwich is its adaptability. Whether you want to make it vegetarian by substituting tofu for the chicken or adjust the spiciness by adding chili flakes to the romesco sauce, this recipe welcomes personalization. You can also use other types of bread like ciabatta, sourdough, or even whole-grain rolls if focaccia isn’t available. The possibilities are endless, making it an ideal choice for all kinds of dietary preferences and tastes.

Ideal for All Occasions

This sandwich shines in a variety of settings. Its portability makes it perfect for picnics, road trips, or packed lunches, while its bold and sophisticated flavors make it a show-stopper for casual dinner parties. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just preparing a special meal for yourself, the Crunchy Chicken Romesco Sandwich never fails to impress.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

  • Don’t skimp on the breading process: Ensuring that each chicken cutlet is evenly coated in flour, egg wash, and panko breadcrumbs is essential for achieving that signature crunch.
  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: The flavor of this sandwich heavily depends on the quality of its ingredients, especially the roasted red peppers, almonds, and olive oil for the romesco sauce.
  • Grill the focaccia carefully: Keep a close eye on the bread as it grills. The combination of garlic butter and parmesan can go from bubbling to burnt in seconds if left unattended.
  • Serve it fresh: While this sandwich can be stored in the refrigerator for later, it’s best enjoyed immediately after assembly when the bread is warm and the chicken is freshly fried.

Nutritional Insights

While indulgent, the Crunchy Chicken Romesco Sandwich also offers a surprising amount of nutritional value. The chicken provides a high-quality source of lean protein, while the romesco sauce adds healthy fats from olive oil and almonds. The salad contributes fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish both satisfying and wholesome.

Conclusion: A Sandwich Worth Savoring

The Crunchy Chicken Romesco Sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. With its harmonious blend of textures and flavors, it’s a dish that appeals to all the senses. From the crunch of the chicken to the smoky depth of the romesco sauce and the freshness of the salad, every bite is a testament to the magic of thoughtful cooking.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress, this sandwich is a must-try. It’s a reminder of how simple ingredients, when combined with care and creativity, can result in something truly extraordinary. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a recipe worth adding to your culinary repertoire.

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