Chipotle Turkey Panini
The Chipotle Turkey Panini is a delightful sandwich that combines the smokiness of chipotle with the savory flavors of turkey, creamy avocado, and melted provolone. Perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this panini is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. With each bite, you’ll experience a wonderful blend of textures and flavors that make this sandwich a standout. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- The chipotle mayonnaise adds a smoky kick that elevates the flavor.
- Loaded with fresh ingredients like avocado and red onion for added nutrition.
- Customizable to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfectly crispy on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside.
What’s in the Bowl
- 1/4 cup (56g) mayonnaise – Creamy base for the chipotle sauce.
- 1 clove garlic, pressed – Adds a fragrant and savory note.
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice – Brightens up the flavors.
- 1/8 teaspoon chipotle powder – For that smoky heat.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper – Adds a bit of spice.
- 1 baguette – The perfect bread for a crispy panini.
- 8 ounces turkey deli meat – The star protein of the sandwich.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced – Adds crunch and sharpness.
- 4 slices provolone cheese – Melts beautifully for a creamy finish.
- 1 avocado, sliced – Adds creaminess and richness.
- Butter – For grilling the panini to perfection.
Appliances & Accessories
- Panini press – Ideal for achieving that perfect crispy exterior.
- Skillet – A good alternative if you don’t have a press.
- Spatula – For flipping the sandwich if using a skillet.
- Cutting board and knife – For slicing your ingredients with ease.
Chipotle Turkey Panini: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Chipotle Mayonnaise
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, pressed garlic, lemon juice, chipotle powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. This smoky spread will be the star of your panini, giving it a flavorful kick.
Step 2: Assemble the Panini
Slice the baguette in half lengthwise. Spread a generous layer of the chipotle mayonnaise on both halves. On one side, layer the turkey deli meat, followed by the thinly sliced red onion, provolone cheese, and avocado slices. Top with the other half of the baguette.
Step 3: Grill the Panini
Preheat your panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If using a skillet, heat it over medium heat and add a little butter. Place the assembled sandwich on the press or skillet and grill until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted, about 3-5 minutes per side.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Once the panini is grilled to perfection, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a minute. This will help the cheese set slightly, making it easier to slice. Cut the panini in half and serve immediately, perhaps with a side of chips or a fresh salad.
Smart Substitutions
- Mayonnaise: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Turkey: Substitute with chicken, or for a vegetarian option, use grilled vegetables or a plant-based deli meat.
- Provolone cheese: Swap with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Baguette: Whole grain or sourdough bread can be used for added flavor and nutrition.
Behind the Recipe
The inspiration for this Chipotle Turkey Panini comes from the desire to create a hearty yet simple meal that can be enjoyed any time of day. The combination of smoky chipotle, creamy avocado, and savory turkey is not only satisfying but also incredibly flavorful. This recipe allows for creativity, so feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice level to your liking.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
This Chipotle Turkey Panini is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store the components separately in the refrigerator. The mayonnaise mixture can last for a few days in an airtight container, while the turkey, cheese, and vegetables should be consumed within 3-4 days. For meal prep, consider assembling the sandwiches but grilling them just before serving to maintain that delicious crunch.
Your Top Questions
Can I use a different type of bread for the panini?
Absolutely! While a baguette provides a lovely crunch, you can use any bread you prefer, such as ciabatta, sourdough, or whole grain. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the fillings.
How can I make this panini spicy?
If you’re looking to turn up the heat, try adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. You can also increase the amount of chipotle powder in the mayonnaise for an extra kick.
Can I prepare the chipotle mayonnaise in advance?
Yes! The chipotle mayonnaise can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using to re-incorporate any ingredients that may have settled.
Is this panini suitable for a crowd?
Definitely! You can easily scale the recipe up by preparing multiple sandwiches at once. Just ensure you have enough space on your grill or skillet, and consider cutting the sandwiches into smaller portions for easy serving.
That’s a Wrap
The Chipotle Turkey Panini is a versatile sandwich that is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich flavors and satisfying crunch, it’s an ideal meal for any day of the week. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, this recipe is bound to impress. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to savor every bite of this delicious creation. Happy cooking!
Chipotle Turkey Panini
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Chipotle Mayonnaise. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, pressed garlic, lemon juice, chipotle powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Step 2: Assemble the Panini. Slice the baguette in half lengthwise. Spread a generous layer of the chipotle mayonnaise on both halves. Layer the turkey deli meat, red onion, provolone cheese, and avocado slices on one side. Top with the other half of the baguette.
- Step 3: Grill the Panini. Preheat your panini press or skillet. Grill the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted, about 3-5 minutes per side.
- Step 4: Slice and Serve. Remove from heat, let cool for a minute, then cut the panini in half and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- You can use chicken or grilled vegetables instead of turkey.
- Consider adding jalapeños for extra heat.
