Chicken Beirut
If you enjoy a tasty and easy-to-prepare snack, the Chicken Beirut is an excellent choice. This delightful Lebanese-origin treat has won over palates around the world and has become a classic on the menus of diners and restaurants.
With simple ingredients and an uncomplicated preparation method, the Chicken Beirut is perfect for any time of the day.
What is Chicken Beirut?
The Chicken Beirut is a special sandwich made with Beirut bread, filled with seasoned chicken cubes, melted cheese, tomato, lettuce, and mayonnaise. Its combination of flavors is irresistible, and the soft texture of the bread perfectly harmonizes with the well-seasoned filling. This snack is inspired by Arab cuisine but has been adapted to suit the Brazilian palate.
Chicken Beirut Recipe
Ingredients:
To prepare a delicious Chicken Beirut, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 200g of chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 2 slices of mozzarella or prato cheese
- 2 lettuce leaves
- 2 tomato slices
- Mayonnaise or cream cheese to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of Beirut bread
- 1 tablespoon of butter for grilling
Preparation Method:
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Season the chicken breast cubes with garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Heat a pan with olive oil and grill the chicken cubes until they are nicely browned on all sides.
Step 2: Assembling the Sandwich
Take the slices of Beirut bread and spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or cream cheese. Add the lettuce leaves and tomato slices, then arrange the chicken cubes over these ingredients. Top with cheese and close the sandwich without cutting it in half.
Step 3: Finishing on the Griddle
Heat a pan with butter and grill the Chicken Beirut for a few minutes on each side, until the bread becomes slightly crispy and the cheese melts. After assembling the Chicken Beirut, return it to the pan and toast it a little more on both sides to ensure an even more delicious texture.
Step 4: Serving
Serve the Chicken Beirut with french fries or a light salad. This snack is perfect when paired with a fresh juice or a well-chilled soda.
Golden Tips for an Irresistible Chicken Beirut
If you want to elevate the flavor and quality of your Chicken Beirut, follow these special tips:
1. Choose a Quality Bread
Beirut bread is the soul of the sandwich! Opt for a fresh bread that is slightly crispy on the outside yet soft on the inside. If you can’t find the traditional type, you can use thicker pita bread.
2. Marinate the Chicken in Advance
Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in lemon juice, garlic, and seasonings. This ensures that it absorbs the flavors and becomes juicier.
3. Use Cheese That Melts Well
Cheeses like mozzarella, prato, gouda, or even provolone provide an intense flavor and an irresistible texture. The secret is to let the cheese melt completely before serving.
4. Grill the Bread with Butter
Before assembling the sandwich, spread a little butter on the bread slices and grill them in a hot pan. This adds crunch and a delicious aroma.
5. Pay Attention to the Assembly
Assemble the sandwich in the correct order to balance flavors and textures:
- First, the sauce (mayonnaise, cream cheese, or ricotta cream)
- Then, the lettuce leaves (to prevent the bread from becoming soggy)
- Next, the well-distributed grilled chicken
- Add the cheese so that it melts better with the heat of the chicken
- Finish with tomato and any additional ingredients
6. Perfect Finishing on the Griddle
After assembling, return the Chicken Beirut to the pan and lightly press it with a spatula. This seals the sandwich and ensures the cheese is even more melted.
7. Experiment with Special Touches
If you want a unique twist in flavor, try adding:
✅ Chopped olives for a salty note
✅ Herbs such as oregano or basil for extra aroma
✅ A drizzle of truffle oil for a sophisticated touch
✅ Dijon mustard mixed into the sauce for balanced acidity
By following these tips, your Chicken Beirut will be restaurant-worthy! 🥙🔥
Variations of Chicken Beirut
There are several ways to prepare a Chicken Beirut, adapting it to individual tastes. Here are some delicious options:
Chicken Beirut with Ricotta Cream
Replace the mayonnaise with ricotta cream seasoned with herbs. This version is light and has a distinctive flavor. For an extra touch, add chopped walnuts or other nuts to give the filling a crunchy texture.
Chicken Beirut with Pesto Sauce
Add a layer of pesto sauce to the sandwich for an aromatic and sophisticated touch. Basil pesto pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, and you can experiment with different variations, such as arugula pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto, for an even more special flavor.
Chicken Beirut with Gouda Cheese
Swap the traditional cheese for gouda or another more intense cheese for a special flavor. Smoked gouda can add an extra touch, making the Chicken Beirut even more irresistible.
Chicken Beirut with Caramelized Onions
If you crave a sweet and tangy taste, try adding caramelized onions to your Beirut. To prepare them, simply cook the onions over low heat with a bit of butter and sugar until they become soft and golden. This adds a sweet and sophisticated flavor to the sandwich.
Chicken Beirut with Avocado and Lemon
A refreshing and nutritious option is to add avocado slices and a few drops of lemon to the sandwich. The avocado provides a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the juiciness of the grilled chicken.
Spicy Chicken Beirut
For those who enjoy a spicy kick, a great idea is to add chopped chili peppers or hot sauce to the sandwich. This spicy touch enhances the flavors and provides a unique gastronomic experience.
Side Dishes for Chicken Beirut
A Chicken Beirut can be served on its own or accompanied by some tasty sides:
- Rustic herb-roasted potatoes
- Green salad with mustard and honey dressing
- Baked vegetable chips
- Tartar sauce for dipping the sandwich
History and Origin of Beirut
Although the name refers to the capital of Lebanon, the Chicken Beirut has its history linked to Arab immigration in Brazil. The immigrants brought their culinary traditions and, over time, the sandwich incorporated new ingredients and flavors, making it an icon of Brazilian cuisine.
Today, it is available in various versions, but the traditional recipe remains one of the most beloved.
Conclusion
The Chicken Beirut is a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-prepare snack, ideal for any time of the day. With its balanced combination of ingredients and simple preparation, it appeals to a wide range of palates and can be adapted to your preferences.
Whether enjoyed in its classic form or with creative variations, this sandwich offers a unique gastronomic experience by combining the lightness of Beirut bread with the juiciness of well-seasoned chicken. Additionally, it can be served with a variety of side dishes to make your meal even more special.
Now that you know everything about the Chicken Beirut, try making it at home and be amazed by its irresistible flavor. Whether for a quick snack or a meal to share with friends and family, this recipe will surely become one of your favorites! 😋🍽️
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With love
Nate