This delectable sandwich combines the crunch of panko-crusted chicken cutlets with the rich, smoky flavors of homemade Romesco sauce, all nestled between slices of garlic-parmesan focaccia.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

1. For the Chicken:

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced horizontally into 4 cutlets
• 50g all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, whisked
• 50g panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

2. For the Romesco Sauce:

• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 jarred roasted red bell peppers
• 4 sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons almonds
• ½ tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 4 tablespoons olive oil (adjust as needed for blending)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

3. For the Salad:

• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• ½ lemon, juiced
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• Black pepper, to taste
• 5 gem lettuce leaves, finely chopped
• Handful of arugula (rocket)

4. For the Bread:

• 2 focaccia loaves or sandwich-sized pieces
• 4 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 5g parsley, finely chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken Cutlets:
   Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create two thin cutlets, resulting in four pieces total. Coat each cutlet in flour, then dip into the whisked egg, and finally press into panko breadcrumbs to ensure an even coating.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry each breaded cutlet for approximately 4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Once cooked, remove from the pan and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
3. Prepare the Romesco Sauce:
   In a blender or food processor, combine garlic cloves, roasted red bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, almonds, balsamic vinegar, paprika, and kosher salt. Blend until smooth, gradually adding olive oil to achieve a creamy consistency. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Assemble the Salad:
   In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, grated Parmesan, and black pepper. Toss the chopped gem lettuce and arugula in the dressing until evenly coated.
5. Prepare the Focaccia:
   In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley. Slice the focaccia loaves horizontally and spread the garlic-parsley butter on the cut sides. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the buttered surfaces. Toast the focaccia under a broiler or in a hot pan until golden and fragrant.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches:
   Spread a generous layer of Romesco sauce on the bottom half of each toasted focaccia piece. Place a crispy chicken cutlet on top of the sauce. Add a portion of the dressed salad over the chicken. Cover with the top half of the focaccia.
7. Serve:
   Slice the sandwiches as desired and serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of textures and flavors.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 1216 kcal
• Total Fat: 67g
  • Saturated Fat: 21g
• Cholesterol: 215mg
• Sodium: 1660mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 88g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 74g

Origin of Savory Crispy Chicken with Romesco Sauce on Focaccia

Savory Crispy Chicken with Romesco Sauce on Focaccia is a modern twist on traditional Mediterranean flavors. Romesco sauce hails from Catalonia, Spain, where it was originally created by fishermen to accompany their freshly caught seafood. Its vibrant red color and smoky, nutty flavor come from roasted red peppers, almonds, and paprika. Pairing this rich sauce with crispy chicken cutlets and placing it between soft focaccia bread creates a fusion of textures and tastes that delight the palate. While focaccia is of Italian origin, its versatility makes it a perfect base for sandwiches like this. The garlic-parmesan coating on the bread enhances its savory profile, offering an extra burst of flavor in every bite. The incorporation of a fresh salad dressing provides a zesty balance, making the dish complete.

Flavor Profile and Texture

The savory crispy chicken is characterized by its golden panko crust, which delivers a satisfying crunch. The chicken remains juicy and tender inside, contrasting perfectly with the bold Romesco sauce. The sauce’s tangy, smoky notes come from the roasted red peppers and sun-dried tomatoes, while the almonds lend a slightly creamy texture. The garlic-parmesan focaccia adds a rich and buttery flavor, further enhancing the overall taste. Meanwhile, the fresh salad topping contributes a crisp, refreshing bite. Each component works together to create a balanced meal that is both indulgent and refreshing.

Ideal Occasions for Serving

This recipe is a great choice for a variety of occasions. It makes a satisfying lunch or dinner option, ideal for family gatherings, casual get-togethers, or weekend meals. The elegant presentation and gourmet flavor also make it suitable for hosting events or celebrating special moments. If you’re serving a larger crowd, the chicken and Romesco sauce can be prepared in advance, making assembly quick and easy. For picnics or potlucks, consider serving the components separately, allowing guests to build their sandwiches for a customizable experience.

Customization Options

While the classic combination of crispy chicken and Romesco sauce is delightful on its own, there are numerous ways to customize this dish to suit different preferences. Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for grilled eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a meat-free variation. The Romesco sauce pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables. Spicy Variation: Add a touch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the Romesco sauce for an extra kick. Cheese Lovers: For additional richness, melt some mozzarella or provolone cheese on top of the chicken cutlets before assembling the sandwich. Lighter Version: Opt for a grilled or air-fried chicken cutlet instead of frying for a healthier alternative.

Pairing Suggestions

Complement this flavorful dish with side options that enhance its Mediterranean influences. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast. Garlic roasted potatoes or a bowl of creamy tomato soup also make excellent companions. For beverages, a glass of chilled white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the dish’s vibrant flavors. Alternatively, a sparkling lemonade or iced tea provides a refreshing, non-alcoholic pairing.

Nutritional Considerations

This sandwich is a balanced meal that combines protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. While it is indulgent, slight adjustments can make it healthier. Reducing the amount of oil used for frying, opting for whole grain focaccia, or adding extra greens to the salad can enhance the dish’s nutritional value. Romesco sauce, with its base of roasted red peppers and almonds, offers beneficial antioxidants and healthy fats. The chicken provides a good source of protein, while the salad adds fiber and essential vitamins.

Conclusion

Savory Crispy Chicken with Romesco Sauce on Focaccia is a celebration of bold flavors and contrasting textures. The combination of crispy, golden chicken with the smoky richness of Romesco sauce creates a memorable dining experience. This recipe’s versatility allows it to be customized to suit individual tastes, making it a reliable go-to for various occasions. Whether enjoyed as a family meal or served at a gathering, this sandwich is sure to impress with its delightful blend of Mediterranean-inspired flavors.