Hey meal preppers! If you’re short on time but still crave something hearty and wholesome, this is your next go-to recipe. We’re turning up the flavor with Trader Joe’s viral Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia Ultimate Sandwich, using some simple yet delicious ingredients you can find at your local Trader Joe’s. The best part? You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen—this recipe is all about using pre-made, quality ingredients that pack a punch in both flavor and nutrition!
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our privacy policy for details.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Wholesome Ingredients: No need to make everything from scratch! The key is to source quality ingredients that do the heavy lifting for you. Trader Joe’s Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia is packed with flavor and texture, giving your sandwich that “homemade” touch without the extra work.
- Big Flavors, Minimal Effort: The red pepper spread is a game-changer—it’s savory, slightly sweet, and full of depth. Pair that with the gouda, juicy heirloom tomatoes, and chicken, and you’ve got a seriously satisfying sandwich.
- Meal Prep Made Easy: You’ll have six delicious sandwiches ready to go. Perfect for busy individuals who want something tasty, nutritious, and quick to pack for lunch.
Remember, meal prepping doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s all about smart choices—picking ingredients that make your life easier and your meals more enjoyable.
Ingredient Spotlight: Why These Flavors Work So Well Together
- Trader Joe’s Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia Bread: This bread is the heart of the sandwich, bringing a rich, tangy flavor with every bite. The sun-dried tomatoes give it a slightly sweet, savory kick that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. The focaccia’s light and airy texture, with just the right amount of chew, makes it feel homemade and comforting—without all the work. Plus, it crisps up beautifully in the oven or air fryer, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite.
- Trader Joe’s Red Pepper Spread with Eggplant and garlic: Talk about a flavor powerhouse! This spread is savory and full of depth, thanks to the red pepper, eggplant and garlic. The sweet red peppers add a hint of sweetness that balances the earthy richness of the eggplant. It’s a perfect match for the tangy sun-dried tomato focaccia, as it enhances the flavors without overpowering them. Plus, it’s a healthier, veggie-packed alternative to heavier spreads, giving your sandwich an extra layer of nutrition.
- Chicken Deli Slices: The protein of the sandwich, these chicken deli slices are light but flavorful, adding a subtle savory note that complements the bolder flavors from the focaccia and spread. Chicken is versatile and pairs well with almost anything, making it the ideal ingredient to bring balance to this ultimate sandwich. It’s also a great option for those looking for lean protein to keep them full and energized throughout the day.
- Heirloom Tomato, Thinly Sliced: Nothing beats the fresh, juicy taste of a ripe heirloom tomato. These tomatoes are known for their vibrant colors and rich, complex flavors. When thinly sliced, they add a burst of freshness and sweetness that cuts through the richness of the red pepper spread and cheese. They also add a lovely contrast in texture, making every bite refreshing and balanced.
- Gouda Cheese: Gouda is a creamy, mildly sweet cheese with a buttery finish, making it a perfect partner for the savory red pepper spread and juicy tomatoes. Its meltability adds a layer of indulgence to the sandwich, and its subtle nuttiness complements the tangy notes from the sun-dried tomato focaccia. The gouda ties all the ingredients together, creating a satisfying, well-rounded flavor profile that makes this sandwich feel indulgent yet wholesome.
How to Make Trader Joe’s Focaccia Chicken Sandwich
- Preheat: Set your oven to 400°F, or if you’re using an air fryer, 300°F. Time-saving tip: The air fryer gives the bread that perfect crispy texture in just 4-5 minutes!
- Toast: Place the focaccia in the oven for 5-8 minutes until it’s golden and slightly crispy. It’ll smell like homemade comfort food straight from an Italian bakery!
- Slice: Keeping the focaccia flat on a cutting board, use a serrated knife to carefully slice through the center of the loaf horizontally. Don’t worry—this part’s easy! Just keep the top flat and set it aside.
- Layer: Now for the fun part. Spread the red pepper spread over the bottom half of the focaccia. This spread is like a flavor bomb—it adds a rich, savory touch with sweet notes from the red peppers. Next, layer on the chicken deli slices, followed by those creamy slices of Gouda cheese. Finish with thinly sliced heirloom tomatoes for a burst of freshness.
- Assemble: Gently press the top half of the focaccia back onto your loaded sandwich. Make sure it’s secure—this is one epic sandwich, after all!
- Slice & Serve: Use a large knife to slice the sandwich into six pieces. It’s perfect for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.
Meal Prep Tips, Swaps, and Additions for the Ultimate Focaccia Sandwich
- Avoid Soggy Bread: To prevent the focaccia from getting soggy, consider spreading the red pepper spread in between the chicken slices rather than directly on the bread. This creates a moisture barrier and keeps your focaccia crisp for longer.
- Swap Chicken Deli for Turkey or Tofu: If you’re not into chicken or prefer a different protein, try turkey deli slices for a similar texture with a slightly different flavor. For a vegetarian option, marinated tofu or grilled portobello mushrooms make great substitutes while keeping the sandwich hearty and satisfying.
- Use a Different Spread: Not into red peppers? No problem! You can swap the red pepper spread with Trader Joe’s Hummus or their Vegan Kale, Cashew, and Basil Pesto. These spreads will bring different flavor profiles but still pair beautifully with the other ingredients.
- Cheese Alternatives: Gouda is creamy and delicious, but you can easily swap it for provolone, mozzarella, or even a vegan cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. These cheeses still offer that melty, satisfying texture but with a different taste experience.
- Add Fresh Greens: Boost the nutrition by adding a layer of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens to your sandwich. This adds a fresh, peppery crunch that complements the rich flavors of the sandwich while packing in extra vitamins and fiber.
- Pickled Veggies: Want to add a bit of zing? Layer in some pickled red onions, cucumbers, or even Trader Joe’s Spicy Pickled Vegetables. The tanginess will add a whole new dimension to the sandwich, cutting through the richness and adding a burst of flavor.
- Avocado: For an extra creamy and nutritious touch, add slices of avocado. It will pair perfectly with the gouda and chicken, making the sandwich even more satisfying and filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the sandwiches?
While it’s possible to freeze the sandwiches, the texture of the focaccia may change when thawed, becoming less crispy. If you do freeze them, don’t include the sliced tomatoes, and wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore some crispiness.
How do I reheat the sandwich?
To reheat your sandwich, preheat your oven to 350°F and warm it for about 5-7 minutes, or use an air fryer at 300°F for 3-4 minutes. This will bring back some of the focaccia’s crispiness and melt the cheese.
How long will the sandwiches last in the fridge?
The sandwiches will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container. For best results, keep them wrapped tightly in parchment paper or foil to prevent the bread from drying out.
Trader Joe’s Sun-Dried Tomato Focaccia Chicken Sandwich
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions