Mediterranean Sandwich from Potbelly Sandwich Shop features tender grilled chicken, fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and zesty hummus layered on warm, toasted ciabatta bread, offering a flavorful and wholesome Mediterranean-inspired experience.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Bread knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or sandwich spreader
- Toaster oven or panini press
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) grilled chicken breast
- 1 cup cucumber slices
- 1 cup tomato slices
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup hummus
- 4 ciabatta rolls or sandwich-sized ciabatta bread
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (optional, for grilling)
Fresh cucumbers and ripe tomatoes should be sliced evenly to ensure a balanced texture and flavor in each bite. Use high-quality grilled chicken breast, preferably marinated or seasoned, to replicate the tender and flavorful protein found in the original sandwich. Crumbled feta cheese adds a tangy richness but avoid overloading to maintain the sandwich's freshness. Hummus acts as a creamy, zesty spread and should be spread generously to complement the other ingredients. Your Mediterranean Sandwich from Potbelly Sandwich Shop copycat menu will shine when using freshly toasted ciabatta rolls that provide a warm, crispy base.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Season chicken breast with salt and black pepper.
- Grill chicken breast until cooked through, then let rest.
- Slice grilled chicken into thin strips.
- Slice cucumbers and tomatoes.
- Slice ciabatta rolls in half horizontally with bread knife.
- Lightly toast ciabatta rolls in toaster oven or panini press.
- Spread hummus evenly on bottom half of each ciabatta roll.
- Layer grilled chicken strips over hummus.
- Top with cucumber slices.
- Add tomato slices.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top.
- Drizzle with olive oil (optional).
- Place the top half of ciabatta roll over the fillings.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Mediterranean Sandwich from Potbelly Sandwich Shop copycat recipe captures the essence of fresh, wholesome flavors with grilled chicken, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy feta, and savory hummus on toasted ciabatta. If ciabatta is unavailable, you can substitute with a crusty baguette or focaccia for a similar texture and taste experience. When grilled chicken breasts are not on hand, rotisserie chicken or even grilled tofu can be excellent protein alternatives. For a dairy-free option, omit the feta cheese and enhance the flavor with additional spices or olives. Your sandwich will maintain its Mediterranean flair whether you grill your bread in a panini press or toast it lightly in a toaster oven.
Tips
Ensure the chicken breast is cooked thoroughly and allowed to rest before slicing to retain its juiciness and prevent dryness. Use a sharp bread knife to cut the ciabatta rolls cleanly without crushing the bread's airy texture. Spread the hummus evenly to enhance flavor distribution and avoid sogginess by toasting the bread just before assembly. For optimal taste, assemble and serve your Mediterranean sandwich immediately to enjoy fresh, crisp vegetables and warm grilled chicken.
Nutritions
The Mediterranean Sandwich from Potbelly is a nutrient-dense meal, rich in lean protein from the grilled chicken breast, which supports muscle repair and growth. Fresh cucumbers and ripe tomatoes contribute antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and fiber, promoting overall health and digestion. Feta cheese adds calcium and healthy fats while hummus provides plant-based protein and fiber, enhancing satiety and heart health. Your choice of ciabatta bread offers a balanced source of carbohydrates for energy, making this sandwich a well-rounded option for a wholesome Mediterranean-inspired diet.
Storage
Store leftover Mediterranean Sandwich components separately to maintain freshness and texture; keep grilled chicken in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 days, and store sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese in separate containers to avoid sogginess. For best results, keep toasted ciabatta rolls in a paper bag or sealed plastic bag at room temperature to prevent them from becoming stale or too soft. When ready to enjoy your sandwich again, reheat the grilled chicken gently and assemble the ingredients fresh to ensure optimal flavor and quality.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, substitute grilled chicken with marinated grilled lamb for a richer Mediterranean flavor or use roasted eggplant slices to create a vegetarian option. You can replace feta cheese with goat cheese or halloumi for a different tangy element, while swapping hummus for tzatziki adds a refreshing yogurt-based spread. Toast the ciabatta on a panini press to achieve a crispier texture and melt the cheese slightly for added creaminess. You can also enhance your sandwich with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like oregano or mint for an aromatic boost.
Allergies
The Mediterranean Sandwich contains common allergens such as dairy from the crumbled feta cheese and possibly sesame if the hummus includes tahini. The ciabatta bread contains gluten, which may affect those with wheat allergies or celiac disease. If you have allergies to any of these ingredients, be sure to check with Potbelly Sandwich Shop or modify your sandwich accordingly to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
Potbelly Sandwich Shop's Mediterranean Sandwich menu is popular for its fresh ingredients, including flavorful hummus, crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and savory feta cheese, all layered on warm, toasted bread. The vibrant combination of Mediterranean flavors offers a healthy and satisfying meal option that appeals to those seeking a tasty yet nutritious lunch. Making a copycat version at home allows You to customize ingredient quality and portion size, enhancing the dining experience. This sandwich's unique blend of textures and authentic flavors makes it worth trying for sandwich enthusiasts and health-conscious eaters alike.