I don’t do too many cooking recipes on the blog, primarily because I am so fixed in my ways with the handful I have in rotation and we’re pretty happy with it. As much as I like to be adventurous in the kitchen, it’s not me. I’m still making that lemon pepper chicken stir fry often, along with the good ol’ staples.
Two chefs in the family and one of them isn’t me. I leave it up to my Mom and Brother, who can take out everything in your pantry and fridge, whip something up in no time and have it taste like something from a restaurant. My Dad and I like to cook some boiled eggs and call it a day. My trick is when I taste my family’s home-cooking, I adopt their recipes to bring back to my kitchen and call it a day. Then friends come over thinking I’m the awesome cook. I do let them in on who actually came up with it though.
When Lori was here visiting, she noticed the abundance of sandwiches I consumed. Each time we went to a restaurant, I picked out the sandwich on the menu. I never noticed that I did it, but it all makes sense now — because they are SO good. And I can be really picky about my them too, you know they’re not all made equally.
Paninis are particularly my favourite. So that’s what I’m showing you guys today on my new Cuisinart Griddler that I got off O.co. I mean, you technically don’t need me to tell you how to make a panini since it’s pretty straight forward. That’s the great thing about sandwiches, you can add whatever you want!
After heating up the grill side of the plate, I waited until the grill reached its temperature before putting the chicken on. Always want those grill marks on chicken, perfection. They ended up taking about 13 minutes to cook since they were pretty thick to start with.
Let the chicken cool and turn our attention to the cherry tomatoes (with salt and pepper on top) which I baked at 350º for 15 minutes to really give them some more flavour.
I picked up some freshly baked ciabatta buns from Trader Joes since I spotted them there earlier last week and had it in mind to make this meal for the weekend, because when I went there last time to do my regular grocery shop I noticed they were sold out. So yesterday morning I headed into the store around 9am and they were stocked with plenty. I picked up two not really knowing how big they’d be once I removed them from the bags. Nothing to complain about, I love a nice hearty piece of bread.
Slicing the cibatta buns in half, and add on some chipotle mayo. Oh, and be generous. I can’t stand a dry sandwich. We could get fancy over here and add some pepper jack cheese to give it a nice punch, but I had some colby jack in the fridge. Now don’t skimp on the cheese either, we want it to ooze goodness. Unless of course you’re dairy free. Then I feel really bad for you. I’ll have an extra piece for you.
Go to town with whatever toppings you like on your sandwich. Spose we have to add some greenery to it too, we had spinach. I picked up some dill pickles and roasted red peppers also from Trader Joe’s — I hadn’t tried them before, they sounded like they’d pair well with everything else to go on the panini.
Fold’er up and add a drizzle of olive oil on top and pop it into the medium heated grill. Our old faithful grill/panini press kicked the bucket a while ago, it was a high end brand and I was sad to see it go. But they all get old and need to be replaced eventually. It was my Moms and she handed it down to me, plus the plates weren’t removable and not super easy to clean. The Cuisinart Griddler is a little lower end and the top handle feels a bit flimsier than what I’m used to. However it has many more options since it’s so much newer. You can use it as a grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle or half grill/half griddler. And the best part about the whole thing is that the plates can be removed and put in the dish washer!
My panini skills may need a bit more work. I pressed on it a little too firmly and a bunch of my overstuffed ingredients tried sneaking out. It may not be pretty, but it sure tasted amazing.
I give myself a pat on the back for this creation. If you’re really hungry you can add a side but we thought this was enough for us. I’d either have a sliced up honey crisp apple, a side salad or maybe some sweet potato fries. All the carbs. Don’t judge me. That’s what exercise is for.
The only thing that bothers me about the panini aspect of the cuisinart griddler, is that the top has a fixed angle as you can see from the side view. Where as my other grill/panini had allowed for a flexible top plate and squished it flat rather than angled, making a more even flat panini. I rotated the sandwiches half way through so they wouldn’t be flat on one side and puffy on the other.
Oh and a little sneak of the mess behind the scenes of the blogging world. Keepin’ things real.
What are some of your favourite foods?
Mine are: asparagus, carrots, potatoes, chicken, popcorn, candy, sandwiches and pizza. Ha!!!!
What are some foods you hate?
My husband and I both cannot eat or touch anything with onions on/in it.
What do you like on sandwiches/paninis?
Disclaimer: O.Co aka Overstock kindly sent me the Cuisinart Griddler for review purposes. All opinions are my own.
85 Comments
That sounds phenomenal! I have never made a panini at home, but I would love to get a panini maker one of these days :)
@Robin Rue (@massholemommy): It’s one of my favourite meals to make! Love a nice warm sandwich :) I just love how this one is so diverse.
Nancy recently posted..Roasted red pepper and grilled chicken panini
Thanks for the reminder that I haven’t used my panini machine in forever!! I used to use it all the time. Coincidentally enough, I just took some roasted red pepper spread out of the freezer last night!!
lisa @bitesforbabies recently posted..Seasonal Recipes for Spring
@lisa @bitesforbabies: Great minds are thinkin’ alike! Hope you make your panini soon :)
Nancy recently posted..Roasted red pepper and grilled chicken panini
This panini looks delicious! Like you I tend to stay in my comfort zone in the kitchen. I do love to rework a good recipe with an unexpected ingredient. Hahaha on the behind the scenes photo. You’re right sometimes it’s important to keep it real.
Adanna recently posted..Ice Cream Inspired Yogurt Sandwich #MullerMoment
@Adanna: Sometimes I play around (mainly with pasta casseroles). They turn out okay! But nothing that I’d be like “oh this is my favourite meal everrr”
Nancy recently posted..Roasted red pepper and grilled chicken panini
I keep wavering on whether to buy a panini maker or not. I think you’ve convinced me to go for it. I usually just use my grill pan. My daughter and her husband are the same way about onions. They can’t stand them. I don’t like them raw, but I love stir-fry or grilled onions. Your panini looks amazing!
Alli recently posted..Dessange Paris California Blonde Review
@Alli: Okay this might sound like a commercial, I swear it’s not – but there’s a ton of various panini grills on Overstock.com – and usually sell for cheaper than in the store!
Nancy recently posted..Roasted red pepper and grilled chicken panini
OH goodness gracious, I don’t have a Cuisinart Griddler and until I saw your post I didn’t think I needed one. I do, I really need one. I love how the panini’s turned out. They are also some of my favorite foods but I’ve never made one. I’ll eat your onions for you lol.
Terri Ramsey Beavers recently posted..Cucumber Crisp Sweet Pickles Recipe
@Terri Ramsey Beavers: Yeah the plates can be removed and switch to the other side, and become a grill or griddler for whatever you want to cook. Best thing? The grill opens up FLAT – so you can make double the amount of food (ie: bacon + pancakes) Yum.
Nancy recently posted..Roasted red pepper and grilled chicken panini
I want that panini grill you have. Oh wow!! I could make so many things with that. Including the Roasted Red Pepper and Grilled Chicken you just made.
Terry recently posted..Why Buy A New Grill When You Can Get Replacement Parts For The Weber Grill
@Terry: It’s not just a panini grill, it replaces your other grills too for cooking chicken, or even a pan for bacon/pancakes etc.
Nancy recently posted..Roasted red pepper and grilled chicken panini
A panini press is so something I’d love to get. it just makes the world of a difference haha!
That looks really easy to make! I would love to get a panini maker. I think I’d have them all the time! What doesn’t taste better on a panini? It’s even fun to say! It’s awesome that you decided to be adventurous. I try, but I’m only a mediocre cook. Still, sometimes I surprise myself!
Nikki recently posted..Fun Spring & Easter Games for Your iPad or Tablet
That’s a nice griddler, I need one too! The panini looks yummy. I love making and eating sandwiches, my favorite being pastrami.
Tanya Lara recently posted..Istanbul: A story told in two continents
That looks delicious! I love Panini sandwiches, and this machine looks like a much easier way to make them than the pan method I use. Thanks for sharing!
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle recently posted..Restoring the Lost Art of Piggy Bank Savings | $1000 Savings Account #Giveaway #savewithECCU
This looks incredible. This is the perfect meal for those days when I just don’t have a lot of time.
I use to love to cook and at least one day a week I go out to the kitchen and fix a big meal but for the rest of the time I’m fast and easy! I really like this recipe and I’ve been wanting to get a panini press so now I have a recipe to give me an excuse to do that.
Grace Hodgin recently posted..Natural Families Choose Natural Pet Food @onlynaturalpet
I love a good grilled panini!
AJ @ NutriFitMama recently posted..Chattanooga Raccoon Mountain Half Marathon | A MUST DO race in TN
Yummy! I got a panini press about two years ago and I don’t know how I lived without one. I LOVE making panini for lunch. I’ll definitely have to try this one <3
Angelic Sinova recently posted..Monday’s Music 13 [One-Hit Wonders Edition]
I had a sandwich very similar to this on Friday, but with mozzarella, and it was delicious! I cannot wait to try out this version, it looks just as amazing :)
Ashley recently posted..Long Island Gems: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery
That grill looks like it can do some serious damage in the cooking arena. I would love to have that in my kitchen!
This is my favorite kind of panini! I love it with grilled eggplant or mozzarella cheese too! Thanks for sharing your DIY! I will definitely try it!
Cara (@StylishGeek) recently posted..Swirl into Spring with Gillette Venus Swirl
These look DELICIOUS. We bought a Panini press a few years ago and I’m so glad we did. I especially love your recipe because I am a huge fan of roasted red peppers…they always give dishes an extra flavor kick. Pinning!
Amanda recently posted..Adventure Playland
This looks super yummy! I am not very adventurous in the kitchen either, just give me a detailed recipe including a very detailed ingredient list and I’m good. I would love to hear about how that lemon pepper stir fry turns out if you ever make that. :)
I love making paninis for lunch. It’s fun to get creative with the ingredients. I always have to add some spice to them!
That looks scrumptious! A warm meal is always a filling one…and I could make a panini everyday of the week for my family <3
Treats by Tanya recently posted..Homeschooling though High School Inspiration
My husband would definitely love that! I have to get me one of those griddler.
Chubskulit Rose recently posted..Ahoy Matey, Here Comes the Pirate
That is a really yummy looking panini. I love that you added red peppers.
Michelle F. recently posted..#McCafeMyWay with Mommy and Me Mini Muffins
i don’t like dry sandwich too that’s why a little mayo and cheese always work for me. I liked what you did with the cherry tomatoes – I don’t usually bake it but I will try it next time. This recipe is so easy-to-do and seems perfect for those impromptu get together a at home.
R U S S recently posted..Side Trip: Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar
This seriously looks incredible! I’m for sure going to have to try this recipe soon! Thanks for showing it to me!
Olivia Schwab recently posted..Favorite Blogging Advice
I love a lot of foods but dislike olives and mushrooms. That Panini looks awesome! I would love to try that.
That looks like an amazing panini! I would love to have a grill/panini maker!
lisa recently posted..10 Ways To Make Your Business Cards Stand Out
I wanted to get hubby a panini maker for Christmas and I didn’t. You’re making me wish here that I did!
That Cuisinart Griddler looks totally amazing!!! My family loves panini sandwiches and they cost a fortune outside! I hope this goes on sale ;)
@vidya sudarsan: You know, it IS over 50% off on Overstock.com ($99 compared to $203 at other retailers).
Nancy recently posted..Roasted red pepper and grilled chicken panini
Now you have me craving one of these so bad! This looks like one delicious sandwich. I love roasted red peppers and chicken together. That sandwich looks cooked to perfection.
Crystal From Tidbits of Experience recently posted..I Found My Writing Editor Software Savior in Grammarly
I have this kind of grilled and I so love it. The settings is easy to used and my family enjoy panini all the time which comes handy to me over the time.
Mhie Lee recently posted..Broiled Oyster with Parmesan,Garlic and Butter Recipe
I do some serious damage with carbs, so don’t be shocked by my next statement. I could live on that bread alone…it look delicious!
Nina Say recently posted..Don Roberto Jewelers Spring 2015 Collection Favorites
I have been eying a Panini press for quite a while!! I love sandwiches they are one of my favorite to grab when we go. I had no idea sandwiches were this easy to make a on Panini press!
Tammilee Tips recently posted..Coke Zero Slow Cooker BBQ Wings
This makes me so very hungry! The chicken looks tasty and I absolutely love paninis!
Cassie recently posted..Gillette Venus Swirl + Giveaway
This looks super delicious!!! I love panini sandwiches with grilled meat and melted cheese! Yum!
I love panini’s a lot, I haven’t had on in ages and this looks so yummy!
It looks so delicious! Grilled chicken panini’s is one of my all time favorite meals for lunch time. I have never tried to make my own, but I’m definitely going to now.
Roselynn recently posted..Cirque Colors – Pop In Collection
I want a Panini press so bad!! These sandwiches sound amazing and so easy to make!
Jenny recently posted..Coke Zero Slow Cooker BBQ Wings
I can relate, as I’m not too adventurous when it comes to cooking since I usually like to stick to my tried and true favorites. Although I’m a vegetarian, this recipe looks pretty good! I’m sure my son would love it.
HilLesha recently posted..Refresh Your Spring Wardrobe with Persil ProClean
this looks SO good! yum!
xo,
Sandy
Sandy a la Mode
Oh my Panini sandwiches are totally love! I’m totally into roasting bell peppers now. I love the scent it gives to my sandwiches and pastas!
Those look very tasty. Lemon and pepper are among my favorite ways to season chicken or fish. I love a ice panini on ocasion too.
Sam recently posted..R & R Tips: Unwind With a Blissful Stink-Free Pedicure
I have never been a big fan of paninis because all the ones I hate didn’t taste the way I thought they would so I stick to making my own and I love them.
I am in love with this panini machine and your recipe. It makes me want to go out and get one right now! Yum!
I have always wanted a panini maker and this is why!! This sandwich looks SO yummy!! Thank you so much for sharing this recipe!! I can’t wait to try it!
Lauren recently posted..Dress: 5 Bras Every Woman Should Have + $200 Kohls Gift Card Giveaway!
Wow I really love roasted red pepper grilled chicken panini!! This look so delicious and tasty and juicy at the same time. I love it because you’re awesome.
Terri Ramsey recently posted..Cucumber Crisp Sweet Pickles Recipe
This sandwich is loaded with tasty ingredients. This is such a delicious sandwich.
Franc Ramon recently posted..Cordillera Mountain Marathon
I have a panini maker and I love it. I don’t use it often enough but it’s a great small appliance to have in the house. Your grilled chicken w/red peppers looks amazing! Gotta try that out!
We have a smaller panini maker that I have yet to use, but after reading this I’d love to try this recipe. The combination of roasted red peppers with grilled chicken sounds so good.
Kori recently posted..How the Easter Bunny Came to Be
I’ve heard of paninis but I don’t think I’ve ever had one. Your paninis look delish though and I want to try making one too. But I need to get us a griddler first. :)
Lynndee recently posted..Awesome Attractions Await You in Atlanta
Oh yum! I’ve considering buying the Griddler. I may have to revisit that thought ;)
Erin recently posted..Sriracha Ranch Snack Mix
You had me at roasted red pepper, I love roasted red peppers on everything! I don’t have a panini maker but I have been thinking about getting one! Your sammy looks great! I would love to sink my teeth into that!
This panini looks AMAZING!! I am a sandwich lover as well and this one just screams perfection!!
Ricci recently posted..A Weekend at the Races
This looks so delicious. I would love to get a Panini maker.
This looks so delicious! I love paninis! They are my favorite type of sandwich!
Echo recently posted..Peanut Butter With A Twist From PB Crave!
Oh my goodness — this sandwich looks amazing! Makes me want to run out and buy a Panini maker right away.
Penny Struebig recently posted..Peanut Butter Scotchies
Yum! That looks really good! I would love a griddle like that, looks super fantastic and handy. My kids would love panini like this!
Jeanine recently posted..Sports Emergency Kit: For Busy On The Go Families
You have seriously made me hungry for a sandwich. I bet it’s a lot of fun to ‘play’ with a panini maker. One appliance I don’t have in my home…yet.
Yona Williams recently posted..7 Good Luck Gift Ideas
I want this for dinner and lunch now :)
Definitely does look delicious!
Colette -JamericanSpice recently posted..Fun With Me – My Mom And – #Music
Oooooo I haven’t had a good panini in forever. Yours looks pretty delicious. Might just have to make one! Yummy :)
@CourtneyLynne: Do it tomorrow, I’ll check in on you and see if you did. Deal? ;)
Nancy recently posted..Roasted red pepper and grilled chicken panini
That was absolute agony watching you prepare that panini and knowing that I could not get anywhere near it! I love the step by step though seriously. I need to take more time preparing my sandwiches too so I can have one that tastes as good as yours!
Sara recently posted..QUINNY VS. BABYWEARING – THE TEST DRIVE
@Sara: LOL your comment cracked me up :) Sorry you couldn’t eat through the screen!
Nancy recently posted..Roasted red pepper and grilled chicken panini
Ok, I need a panini maker! I love roasted red peppers and I can also think of so many other great flavors to put together.
@christina aliperti: + pickles too! Drool-worthy.
Nancy recently posted..Roasted red pepper and grilled chicken panini
I love this panini press! My mom has it! This Panini looks really good. I just ate dinner, but looking at this is making me hungry!
YUM times a million! Are you kidding me? You just made me so hungry! :)
Kelly – A Side of Sweet recently posted..5 Ingredient Baked Egg Boats
I am not big on kitchen gadgets at all, but I really want a panini press. I heard that I could use one of those george foreman type grills in the same way though. This would be the first thing I made!
@Life as a Convert: Oh this isn’t just a panini press though, it sorta replaces an indoor grill too. So I’ve been cooking all sorts of meat on it as well.
Nancy recently posted..Roasted red pepper and grilled chicken panini
I really enjoy paninis and this combination looks and sounds delicious! I will definitely be giving it a try.
Damn that Panini maker is sexy : ) I AM A KITCHEN kinda gal and love to try new things. Don’t sell yourself short because that sandwich looks fantastic! Way to use great bread and fresh ingredients!
Krysta recently posted..I Don’t Wear Makeup⦠But I Want My Daughter To
That looks like one superbly delicious sandwich! I’ve been really wanting to buy one of those griddlers! Looks like it works great!
Michelle @ Dishes and Dust Bunnies recently posted..Easy Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
I have always wanted a panini press! Roasted red pepper is my favorite way to add flavor to a dish!
I’m not a fan of any sort of peppers (unless they’re spicy!) but I love the thought of having a sandwich press. I’d make paninis every day!
Beth recently posted..5 Family-Friendly Activities to do in Indianapolis
A panini press is on my wish list! Thanks for the recipe. I’ll be trying it for sure!
This looks really good. I want one of these.
I love Paninis! Yours looks and sounds super yummy! Can I have one? :)
Shannon Gurnee recently posted..5 Tips for Taking Big Families to the Movies + Giveaway
This panini looks amazing. I’d love to have one of these griddlers but I see what you are talking about – the angle. I’m kind of surprised they have made it that way. Still – I’d love to have it around!
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