Open-Faced Chicken and Muenster Sandwiches with Apricot-Dijon Spread
Inspired by French bistro fare, this sandwich is good with simple baked chips or a fruit salad. I served with Waldorf salad and baked Layes.
Inspired by French bistro fare, this sandwich is good with simple baked chips or a fruit salad. I served with Waldorf salad and baked Layes.
- Carbohydrate 20.9388244906249 g
- Cholesterol 58.8 mg
- Fat 6.8744244611632 g
- Fiber 1.87772538822838 g
- Protein 23.9158597530505 g
- Saturated Fat 1.79433047217368 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (169g)
- Sodium 311.655523007486 mg
- Sugar 19.0610991023965 g
- Trans Fat 0.850260879663459 g
- Calories 244 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat broiler.
- Combine preserves and mustard in a small bowl; stir with a whisk. Spread 1 side of each bread slice with 2 teaspoons mustard mixture. Place bread slices, mustard mixture side up, on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add apple and onion to pan; cook 3 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Add spinach; cook 1 minute or until spinach begins to wilt.
- Layer each of 4 bread slices with 1/4 cup spinach mixture, 1/2 cup chicken, and 1 cheese slice.
- Place sandwiches on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray; broil 1 1/2 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from heat, and serve immediately.
A Busy Mom's Quick Bistro-Style Lunch
Life as a working mom is a whirlwind of school runs, meetings, and trying to keep everyone fed and happy. Finding time for a proper lunch, let alone a gourmet one, often feels impossible. But I’ve discovered the secret to a delicious and satisfying meal that takes just minutes to prepare: these open-faced chicken and Muenster sandwiches with apricot-dijon spread. Inspired by the charming simplicity of French bistro fare, they are a perfect blend of savory and sweet, elegant yet effortless. They're my go-to weekday lunch, and they’re surprisingly adaptable to whatever I have on hand.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its speed and flexibility. I often use leftover rotisserie chicken, saving precious time and effort. The apricot-dijon spread adds a delightful sweetness that cuts through the richness of the chicken and cheese. A simple combination of sautéed apple, onion, and spinach provides a fresh, healthy counterpoint. Sometimes, I'll add a sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. The best part? It's all ready in under 15 minutes! I usually serve these alongside a simple side salad or some baked chips - I personally love Lay's, and have found they compliment this dish beautifully. The combination of warm, gooey cheese and the slightly sweet and tangy spread is utterly irresistible.
On days when I'm feeling particularly ambitious (which, let's be honest, are few and far between!), I'll elevate the side dish. A Waldorf salad, with its crisp apples, celery, and creamy dressing, offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwiches. Or, if I'm looking for something lighter, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works wonders. The possibilities are endless!
I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week, juggling work deadlines and after-school activities. I needed something quick, delicious, and sophisticated enough to satisfy my craving for something a little more special than a simple sandwich. And let me tell you, this recipe delivered! It became a staple in my lunch rotation, and I'm thrilled to share it with you. It’s the perfect solution for busy moms (or anyone, really!) who want a flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly elegant lunch that doesn't require hours in the kitchen.
Beyond lunch, this recipe can easily be adapted for a light dinner. Simply adjust the portions to suit your needs. You can even try adding different cheeses or variations of the fruit spread. The possibilities are endless!
Tips and Variations:
- Use different bread: Sourdough, country bread, or even a baguette would work well.
- Add other vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would be delicious additions to the spinach mixture.
- Experiment with cheeses: Gruyere, Fontina, or even a sharp cheddar would be tasty substitutes for the Muenster.
- Make it a meal prep staple: Prepare the spinach mixture and apricot-dijon spread ahead of time for a quick lunch during the week.
- Add some protein: Consider adding some cooked bacon or ham for an even more substantial meal.
This isn't just a quick lunch; it's a taste of simple elegance in the midst of a busy day. Give it a try, and let me know what you think!
