Name: Stuffed Focaccia Sandwich with Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 large focaccia loaf (store-bought or homemade); 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced; 1/2 cup mayonnaise or aioli; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 cup arugula or baby spinach; 1 tomato, sliced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 4 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

This Stuffed Focaccia Sandwich with Chicken is a flavorful and hearty handheld meal layered with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, cheese, and savory condiments—all tucked inside soft, golden focaccia bread. It’s the perfect combination of rustic Italian bread and satisfying sandwich fillings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sandwich offers layers of taste and texture in every bite—from the herbed, slightly chewy focaccia to the juicy chicken and crisp, fresh toppings. It’s ideal for a casual lunch, a picnic, or even a quick dinner. Easy to customize and prepare in advance, this recipe will quickly become a go-to.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Focaccia bread, halved horizontally
Cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
Provolone or mozzarella cheese
Fresh arugula or baby spinach
Roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes
Red onion, thinly sliced
Mayonnaise or pesto
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Balsamic glaze (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
If not already done, slice focaccia bread horizontally to form a top and bottom half.
Lightly toast the inside of the bread halves in the oven for 5 minutes until warm and slightly crisp.
Spread mayonnaise or pesto on the inside of the bottom half of the bread.
Layer the sandwich with sliced or shredded chicken, cheese, arugula, roasted red peppers, and red onion.
Add a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Optional: drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor.
Top with the other half of the focaccia, press down gently, and return the sandwich to the oven for another 5–7 minutes until cheese melts and the bread is warmed through.
Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Replace chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms.
Add heat: Use spicy mayo or add sliced banana peppers or jalapeños.
Different spreads: Swap mayo for aioli, mustard, or herbed cream cheese.
Cheese options: Try Swiss, cheddar, or goat cheese for a twist.
Greens: Use romaine or spring mix instead of arugula.

Storage/Reheating

Wrap leftover sandwich halves tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it may make the focaccia soggy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought focaccia?

Yes, high-quality store-bought focaccia works perfectly. You can also use homemade if preferred.

What type of chicken is best?

Grilled, roasted, or even rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience and flavor.

Can I make this sandwich in advance?

Yes, assemble up to a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Reheat before serving for best texture.

Is this sandwich freezer-friendly?

It’s not ideal for freezing, as the vegetables and bread may lose texture upon thawing.

What can I serve with this sandwich?

Pair it with a side salad, chips, or a cup of soup for a complete meal.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Add cucumbers, shredded lettuce, or sliced tomatoes for added freshness.

How do I keep the sandwich from becoming soggy?

Toast the bread and layer greens or cheese between moist ingredients and the bread to prevent sogginess.

What kind of pesto should I use?

Traditional basil pesto works well, but sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto are great alternatives.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes, it’s delicious served cold, making it great for packed lunches or picnics.

How thick should the focaccia be?

Look for focaccia that’s about 1 to 1½ inches thick—sturdy enough to hold fillings without being overwhelming.

Conclusion

The Stuffed Focaccia Sandwich with Chicken is a delicious, gourmet-style sandwich that’s surprisingly easy to make. With its bold Italian flavors and satisfying layers, it’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for any meal. Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, this sandwich offers rich taste and rustic charm in every bite.