Roast Chicken Panzanella

When you think about creating a dish that balances textures and flavors effortlessly, Roast Chicken Panzanella stands out as an excellent choice. You’ll appreciate how the tender roast chicken melds with the crunch of toasted bread and the freshness of heirloom tomatoes. The dressing, a simple blend of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and garlic, enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them. Have you ever wondered how a few quality ingredients can transform into such a satisfying meal? Let’s explore the key steps to mastering this delightful recipe.

Ingredients and Preparation

Roast Chicken Panzanella is a delightful Italian-inspired salad that combines the hearty flavors of succulent roast chicken, the vibrant taste of ripe tomatoes, and the satisfying crunch of toasted bread. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, offering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The inclusion of colorful heirloom tomatoes not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a robust, sweet, and tangy profile to the salad. The simplicity of the dressing allows the fresh ingredients to shine, making this a must-try recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 whole roast chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cooked and shredded
• 4 cups day-old rustic or sourdough bread, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (for toasting bread)
• 4 cups colorful heirloom tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (for dressing)
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Roast Chicken: Ensure your roast chicken is perfectly cooked and seasoned. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding any bones or skin.
2. Toast the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1/4 cup olive oil, and toss to coat. Toast in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden and crisp, stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare the Tomatoes: Chop the heirloom tomatoes into chunks, ensuring to capture all the juices. Place the tomatoes and their juices into a large mixing bowl.
4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well blended.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken and toasted bread cubes to the bowl with the tomatoes. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine everything evenly.
6. Let it Sit: Allow the salad to sit for about 5-10 minutes, giving the bread time to absorb the juices and flavors.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately. Enjoy your expertly crafted Roast Chicken Panzanella!

Top Tips

1. Use Day-Old Bread: For the best texture, use day-old bread. Fresh bread can become too soggy.
2. Season the Chicken Well: Ensure your roast chicken is well-seasoned to add depth of flavor to the salad.
3. Capture Tomato Juices: The juices from the tomatoes are essential for the dressing, so make sure to include them.
4. Toast Bread Evenly: Toss the bread cubes occasionally while toasting to ensure they brown evenly.
5. Adjust Dressing to Taste: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve Fresh: This salad is best served fresh to maintain the crunch of the bread and the vibrant flavors of the ingredients.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Panzanella: Skip the chicken and add grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a vegetarian version.
2. Caprese Twist: Add fresh mozzarella cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a Caprese-inspired Panzanella.
3. Seafood Panzanella: Substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or chunks of seared tuna for a seafood variation.
4. Mediterranean Flavor: Incorporate olives, feta cheese, and cucumbers for a Mediterranean twist.
5. Herbed Panzanella: Add a variety of fresh herbs such as parsley, mint, and oregano for extra flavor.
6. Fruit and Nut: Add some diced peaches or nectarines and toasted pine nuts for a sweet and nutty variation.

Nutritional Guide

Serving Size	Calories	Total Fat	Carbohydrates	Protein
1 cup	350	18g	20g	25g

Additional Nutritional Notes:

• This nutritional information is an estimate based on typical ingredients and serving sizes.
• To reduce calories, consider using less olive oil in the dressing.
• For a lower carb option, reduce the amount of bread or use a whole grain variety.

Enjoy this delectable Roast Chicken Panzanella, a perfect blend of fresh, robust flavors and satisfying textures!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Bread for Panzanella?

You can definitely use a different type of bread for panzanella. Experimenting with various breads like ciabatta, sourdough, or even baguette can enhance the dish’s texture and flavor, elevating your culinary skills to new heights.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best to consume them within two days to maintain freshness. For peak quality, keep the bread slightly separated to prevent it from getting soggy.

What Wine Pairs Well With Roast Chicken Panzanella?

You’ll want a crisp white wine to complement the dish. Try a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. Their acidity and fruit notes will enhance the flavors. Avoid heavy reds; they’ll overpower the delicate balance.

Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?

You can definitely make this dish gluten-free! Simply use gluten-free bread in place of regular bread. Confirm all other ingredients, like dressings and seasonings, are also gluten-free. You’ll achieve the same delicious result.

Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prepping?

Yes, you can meal prep this recipe. Just store the components separately to maintain freshness. Combine everything right before eating to guarantee the bread stays crisp and the flavors meld perfectly.

Can Pan-Seared Scallops Be Paired with Roast Chicken Panzanella for a Perfect Meal?

Pairing perfect panseared scallops triple butter with roast chicken panzanella creates a delightful harmony of flavors. The rich, velvety scallops complement the vibrant, tangy bread salad, offering a balance of textures and tastes. Together, they elevate the dining experience into a truly unforgettable meal that feels both indulgent and perfectly crafted.

Conclusion

In the end, you’ll find that Roast Chicken Panzanella is more than just a simple dish—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures.

The crispy bread, juicy tomatoes, and tender chicken come together perfectly with the tangy dressing.

Whether you enjoy it as a light meal or a hearty side, this dish is sure to impress.

So go ahead, gather your fresh ingredients, and treat yourself to a deliciously satisfying meal. You won’t regret it!