The Ultimate Easy Rotisserie Chicken Cuban Sandwich: A Lighter, Quicker Twist on a Classic
Once upon a time, on a particularly hot Saturday afternoon during the height of summer, an undeniable craving struck. And when you’re pregnant, as I was at the time, such cravings aren’t just fleeting thoughts – they are powerful, insistent demands that absolutely must be fulfilled. Trust me, there was no ignoring this one, and my husband can certainly attest to that! The object of my intense desire? A classic Cuban sandwich. The thought of that perfectly pressed, savory, and tangy combination was all I could think about.
Why a Homemade, Lighter Cuban Sandwich?
Much like my previous cheesesteak craving, I decided the best course of action was to create my own rendition of this beloved classic right at home. My goal was a version that was slightly lighter and, unequivocally, far easier to prepare than the traditional method. While I have immense respect for the succulent roast pork that forms the heart of an authentic Cuban sandwich, it’s not exactly a dish I whip up on a whim, especially not for a spontaneous pregnancy craving. So, innovation was key!
My solution came from a true grocery store hero: the humble, yet incredibly versatile, rotisserie chicken. This readily available staple allowed me to capture the essence of a Cuban sandwich without the extensive cooking time. Thus, these Rotisserie Chicken Cuban Sandwiches were born – a lighter, quicker, and utterly delicious answer to my craving. They offer all the satisfying flavors and textures of one of my absolute favorite sandwiches, but with an approachable twist perfect for any home kitchen.
The Magic of Rotisserie Chicken for Quick Meals
Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken is an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend lunches. It comes pre-cooked and perfectly seasoned, providing a flavorful base without any effort. This ingenious shortcut allows you to assemble these incredible Cuban-inspired sandwiches in minutes, transforming what could be a multi-hour endeavor into a quick and satisfying meal. The moist, tender chicken breast, already shredded or sliced, integrates beautifully with the other classic Cuban components, offering a slightly milder, yet equally delicious, flavor profile that many prefer. Plus, it’s often a leaner option, contributing to that “lighter alternative” appeal.
And guess what? It worked spectacularly. Since that memorable summer day, these Rotisserie Chicken Cuban Sandwiches have become a regular feature in our meal rotation. We’ve enjoyed them countless times, each instance proving just how incredibly easy they are to put together. This recipe has even earned the coveted spot of a weekend meal that my husband can effortlessly prepare when I’m not in the mood to cook – which, frankly, has been more often than not lately! It truly embodies the best kind of recipe: one that encourages a “little of this, a little of that,” allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your liking. There’s nothing wrong with a flexible, delicious recipe, right?
What Makes a Cuban Sandwich Iconic?
The traditional Cuban sandwich, or “Cubano,” is a culinary masterpiece born from the vibrant Cuban communities of Florida. It’s renowned for its specific combination of ingredients and its signature pressing method. Typically, it features layers of succulent roasted pork (often marinated in mojo, a citrusy garlic sauce), thinly sliced ham, Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and a generous smear of yellow mustard, all nestled within crusty Cuban bread. The sandwich is then buttered on the outside and pressed in a “plancha” (a specific type of sandwich press) until the bread is perfectly crisp and the cheese is gloriously melted and gooey. Our rotisserie chicken version pays homage to this classic, capturing its spirit with a modern, convenient twist.
Hope you are having a great week!
Rotisserie Chicken Cuban Sandwiches
Author: Aggie’s Kitchen
Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
Category: Chicken
Cuisine: Cuban
A lighter alternative to the classic Cuban sandwich, this recipe uses convenient rotisserie chicken to fulfill your cravings quickly and easily! Best enjoyed on a warm summer day, it’s perfect for a speedy lunch or a casual dinner.
Ingredients for Your Easy Cuban Sandwiches
- Sliced chicken breast from a deli rotisserie chicken (about 1-1.5 cups per sandwich, depending on preference)
- 1 loaf Cuban bread (or a crusty French or Italian bread, if Cuban bread is unavailable)
- 1/3 lb sliced ham from deli (good quality, like Black Forest or honey ham, for best flavor)
- 1/3 lb sliced Swiss cheese (Emmentaler or Gruyère also work wonderfully)
- Sliced pickles (dill pickles are traditional and provide that essential tang)
- Yellow mustard (classic American yellow mustard is key for the authentic flavor)
- Mayonnaise (optional, but adds creaminess and binds flavors)
- Hot sauce, for serving (optional, for those who enjoy a little extra kick)
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Pressed Sandwich
- Prepare the Bread: Begin by taking your loaf of Cuban bread. Carefully cut it into 4 equal, manageable pieces. Next, slice each piece of bread horizontally, opening it up like a book, but without cutting all the way through. On both the top and bottom halves of the bread, spread your desired amount of yellow mustard and, if using, mayonnaise. The mustard provides that essential tangy kick that defines a Cuban sandwich, while the mayonnaise adds a subtle creaminess.
- Layer the Fillings: Now it’s time to build your masterpiece! On one side of each opened sandwich, generously layer the sliced chicken breast from your rotisserie chicken. Follow this with a layer of the thinly sliced ham, then the Swiss cheese. Finally, top with a few slices of pickles – these are crucial for the characteristic sour and briny counterpoint to the rich meats and cheese. Close the sandwiches, ensuring all fillings are neatly tucked inside.
- Press and Grill to Perfection: The pressing is what truly makes a Cuban sandwich sing! If you are using a panini maker (highly recommended for convenience), carefully insert the sandwiches and cook until beautiful grill marks appear, the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is thoroughly melted and gooey. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on your machine. If you don’t have a panini maker, don’t worry! Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat. Place a sandwich in the skillet and weigh it down firmly with a cast-iron panini press or another heavy skillet, perhaps with a heavy can or two on top for added weight. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is compressed, golden, and crispy, and the cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining sandwiches.
Pro Tip: For an extra golden crust, you can lightly butter the outside of your bread before pressing. This adds richness and helps achieve that irresistible crispness.
Serving Suggestions and Customization
These Rotisserie Chicken Cuban Sandwiches are fantastic on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think classic potato chips, a fresh green salad, or even some homemade coleslaw for a picnic-style meal. For an even more authentic touch, consider serving them with a side of fried plantains or black bean soup. Don’t forget the hot sauce on the side for those who like to turn up the heat!
Feeling creative? While the recipe is perfect as is, you can always customize it. Try adding a thin slice of tomato or some finely chopped raw onion for an extra layer of flavor. Experiment with different types of mustard, like a spicy brown mustard, if you want to deviate slightly from the classic yellow. The beauty of this easy Cuban sandwich recipe is its flexibility – it’s designed to be delicious and adaptable to your family’s tastes.
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These Rotisserie Chicken Cuban Sandwiches were made in one of my most used kitchen gadgets – a reliable panini press! If you love pressed sandwiches, quesadillas, or even grilling vegetables, a panini press is an invaluable tool that makes quick work of countless recipes, sealing in flavors and delivering that irresistible crispy exterior.
(Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post. I make small earnings through any purchases made through these links. Thank you for supporting Aggie’s Kitchen, allowing me to continue sharing delicious and easy recipes with you!)
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