Welcome to my blog! Today, I want to share with you my 6-month obsession – The Diner-Style Chicken Melt. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. Join me as I take you on a mouthwatering journey, exploring every delicious aspect of this classic dish. From the perfectly grilled chicken to the melted cheese and tangy sauce, this savory masterpiece is a true crowd-pleaser. So, grab your fork and get ready to indulge in the flavors that have captured my heart for the past six months. Let’s dive into the world of The Diner-Style Chicken Melt.

The Diner-Style Chicken Melt: My 6-Month Obsession

Have you ever tried a chicken melt sandwich that just melts in your mouth? Well, let me tell you about my 6-month obsession with the ultimate diner-style chicken melt. This delectable sandwich is loaded with marinated chicken, balsamic onions, cheese, and sun-dried tomato mayo. The combination of flavors and textures will leave you craving for more.

Introduction

I have always been a fan of diner-style sandwiches. There’s just something about the classic flavors and the comforting feeling they provide. But it wasn’t until I stumbled upon the chicken melt sandwich that my taste buds truly found their happy place. This sandwich is a heavenly creation that takes the concept of a grilled cheese sandwich to a whole new level. With its gooey cheese, tender chicken, and tangy sun-dried tomato mayo, it has become an obsession of mine over the past 6 months.

So, let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this mouthwatering delight.

Ingredients

To create this masterpiece, we will need the following ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley), finely chopped
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 slices of unsalted butter, white bread
• 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 8 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy
• 8 slices of ham
• Balsamic onions (recipe follows)
• Sun-dried tomato mayo (recipe follows)

Marinating the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine the fresh herbs, lemon zest and juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if desired).
2. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure to coat both sides of the chicken.
3. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours.

Cooking the Bacon

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place the bacon slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Cook the bacon in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes until crispy.
4. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the oven and set it aside.

Making the Sun-Dried Tomato Mayo

1. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of chopped basil, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of tomato paste, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk all the ingredients together until well combined.
3. Taste the mayo and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Assembling the Chicken Melt

1. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, on the skillet.
4. Layer each slice with 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, one slice of ham, some marinated chicken, a generous amount of balsamic onions, two slices of bacon, and a dollop of sun-dried tomato mayo.
5. Top each sandwich with another slice of bread, butter-side up.
6. Cook the sandwiches until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, around 3-5 minutes per side.
7. Remove the sandwiches from the heat and let them rest for a minute before serving.

Conclusion

And there you have it, the ultimate diner-style chicken melt sandwich. With its marinated chicken, balsamic onions, cheese, and sun-dried tomato mayo, this sandwich packs a flavorful punch that will leave you asking for more. Whether you’re having it for lunch or dinner, this chicken melt is a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

So go ahead, gather the ingredients, and give this recipe a try. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor? It is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 12 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese with another type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, to customize the flavors to your liking.
3. Can I use pre-cooked bacon instead of cooking it in the oven? Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon if you prefer. Just make sure it is crispy and cooked to your liking.
4. What can I serve with the chicken melt sandwich? This sandwich goes well with a side of potato chips, a salad, or even some sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
5. Can I make the balsamic onions and sun-dried tomato mayo in advance? Yes, you can prepare the balsamic onions and sun-dried tomato mayo ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before assembling the sandwich for the best flavor.