The roasted chicken pairs nicely with the sweetness of the apple and smokiness of the Gouda cheese.

Tip: I use one deli-style rotisserie chicken. It yields the perfect amount.

Chicken, Apple and Smoked Gouda Panini
Image and recipe excerpted from 150 Best Grilled Cheese Sandwiches by Alison Lewis © 2012 Robert Rose Inc. www.robertrose.ca All rights reserved: May not be reprinted without publisher permission.

Panini grill or large skillet
(Preheat panini grill to medium, if using)

8 slices Italian or multigrain bread (1⁄2-inch thick slices)
1⁄4 cup butter or margarine, softened
1⁄4 cup mayonnaise
2 cups thinly sliced roasted or grilled chicken (see Tip)
1 cup baby spinach leaves
2 Gala apples, thinly sliced
4 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, cut into thin slices

Brush one side of each bread slice with butter. Place on a work surface, buttered side down. Spread 4 bread slices equally with mayonnaise. Top equally with chicken, spinach, apples and cheese. Cover with remaining bread slices, buttered side up, and press together gently.

Place sandwiches on preheated panini grill or in a large skillet over medium heat and cook, turning once if using a skillet, for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown and cheese is melted. Serve immediately.

Serves 4.

MF&L Staff at Maine Food & Lifestyle magazine.