Crispy Chicken and Tarragon Panini

Panini are a lovely example of how Italian home cooking stretches what is already in the kitchen. The word just means little bread, and the sandwich itself grew out of simple pressed bread that people made with whatever was on hand. This version leans on leftover cooked chicken, which is why it works so well on a weeknight. If you roasted a chicken over the weekend, you are most of the way there.

Tarragon is the herb that makes this one feel special. It has a gentle anise note, a little like licorice but softer, and it pairs beautifully with mild cheese and poultry. Fresh tarragon is worth seeking out here because dried tarragon turns harsh and dusty in a way that fresh never does. Tear the leaves over the chicken so the flavor spreads through every bite rather than sitting in one spot.

A few things I have learned from making these at home. Keep the heat low and be patient. If the skillet is too hot, the bread browns before the Swiss cheese softens, and you end up with a sandwich that is golden outside and cold in the middle. Press gently with a heavy pan or a lid, and give it the full time on each side. A panini press does the job faster, but a plain nonstick skillet works just fine. Slice the chicken thin so it warms through quickly and does not dry out.

For the bread, a sturdy whole-wheat loaf with a real crust holds up to pressing. Soft sandwich bread turns to mush under weight. If your loaf is a day old, it is even better, since it will crisp more evenly and hold its shape.

Leftover panini keep reasonably well wrapped in the fridge for a day, though they are best eaten fresh while the cheese is still soft. To reheat, use a dry skillet over low heat rather than the microwave, which makes the bread rubbery.

These sandwiches are happy with something bright and light on the side. A simple plate of sliced tomatoes is a classic partner, and you can find a good one in Fresh Tomato Platter with Balsamic Drizzle. If you want something with crunch, Crunchy Crouton Salad with Buttermilk Dressing gives you that. For a warm vegetable, Crispy Baked Green Beans with Parmesan Crumbs fits right alongside.