Name: Copycat Panera Frontega Chicken Panini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 focaccia bread, sliced in half horizontally; 1 cup cooked chicken breast, thinly sliced; 4 slices smoked mozzarella cheese; 1 tomato, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves; 1/4 cup chipotle mayonnaise (mayonnaise mixed with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce); 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional); 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter for brushing

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The Copycat Panera Frontega Chicken Panini is one of my favorite sandwiches to make at home. It’s smoky, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors that taste just like the one from Panera Bread. I love how easy it is to recreate with simple ingredients — perfectly grilled chicken, creamy chipotle mayo, fresh tomato, basil, and gooey mozzarella pressed between crispy focaccia bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings that café-style sandwich experience right into my kitchen. The smoky flavor from the chipotle mayo pairs beautifully with the melted mozzarella and the juicy chicken. It’s also super versatile — I can use leftover chicken, change up the bread, or even make it in a skillet if I don’t have a panini press. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. Copycat Panera Frontega Chicken Panini

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Focaccia bread, sliced in half horizontally
Cooked chicken breast, sliced thin
Smoked mozzarella cheese, sliced
Tomato, thinly sliced
Fresh basil leaves
Chipotle mayonnaise (mayonnaise mixed with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce)
Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Olive oil or melted butter for brushing

Directions

I start by preheating my panini press or grill pan over medium heat.
I slice the focaccia in half and spread chipotle mayo on the inside of both halves.
I layer smoked mozzarella, sliced chicken, tomato, basil leaves, and red onion (if using).
I place the top piece of focaccia over the fillings and lightly brush the outside with olive oil or butter.
I grill the sandwich in the panini press for 3–5 minutes or until the bread is golden and the cheese has melted.
I slice the panini in half and serve it warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 2 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap out the focaccia for ciabatta or sourdough for a different texture. When I want a spicier version, I add extra chipotle peppers or even a few slices of jalapeño. If I’m out of smoked mozzarella, provolone or gouda also work great. For a lighter option, I use grilled turkey or rotisserie chicken instead of chicken breast.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I wrap the sandwich in foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I place it in a toaster oven or on a skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until it’s hot and the bread crisps up again. I avoid microwaving it because it can make the bread soggy. Copycat Panera Frontega Chicken Panini

FAQs

How can I make chipotle mayo at home?

I simply mix mayonnaise with finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. I usually use one pepper per half cup of mayo for mild heat.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. I just slice or shred it before layering it into the sandwich.

What if I don’t have a panini press?

If I don’t have a panini press, I use a grill pan or skillet and press the sandwich down with another heavy pan until it’s golden and crispy.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

I prefer to assemble it right before cooking, but I can prep the ingredients in advance. I keep them separate and build the sandwich when I’m ready to grill.

What goes well with a Frontega Chicken Panini?

I love serving it with a simple side salad, kettle chips, or a bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Copycat Panera Frontega Chicken Panini brings all the smoky, melty, and savory goodness of the café favorite into my own kitchen. I love how easy it is to make, how customizable it can be, and how satisfying each bite feels. It’s the perfect choice for a quick and flavorful meal any day of the week.