Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich
The Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich is a tasty combo of tender chicken, creamy avocado, and melty cheese all stacked between toasted bread. It’s simple but packed with flavor, and the…
Tip: save now, cook later.The Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich is a tasty combo of tender chicken, creamy avocado, and melty cheese all stacked between toasted bread. It’s simple but packed with flavor, and the mix of warm, gooey cheese with cool avocado is such a great surprise in every bite.
I love making this sandwich when I want something quick but satisfying. The creamy avocado adds a fresh, smooth texture, and when you melt the cheese over the chicken, it just feels like comfort food without being too heavy. I usually add a little bit of seasoning and maybe a squeeze of lime to brighten things up even more.
For serving, this sandwich is great with a side of crispy chips or a simple green salad. I like to press it down a little in a pan so the bread gets all golden and crunchy, which makes each bite extra delicious. It’s perfect for lunch, an easy dinner, or anytime you want something tasty and filling without a lot of fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I like sturdy bread like sourdough or country bread because it crisps well and holds the filling. If you want something lighter, whole wheat or multigrain bread works too.
Chicken: Using shredded cooked chicken breast keeps the sandwich juicy. Rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken can be great shortcuts here.
Avocado: Ripe avocado is crucial for creaminess and smooth texture. If you want a twist, mashed guacamole with lime and seasoning adds extra flavor.
Cheese: Monterey Jack or mozzarella melt beautifully and add mild creaminess. Cheddar or pepper jack can be swapped in for more bite or spice.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and smoked paprika bring warm, subtle flavor to the chicken. If you prefer, try cumin or chili powder for a different twist.
How Do You Get the Bread Perfectly Crispy Without Burning?
Getting your bread golden but not burnt takes a bit of heat control and attention. Here’s my approach:
- Use medium heat on your skillet, so the bread has time to crisp as the cheese melts.
- Butter the outsides of the bread evenly but not too thickly, to prevent sogginess or burning.
- Press the sandwich gently with a spatula while cooking to help the bread brown evenly and the cheese melt faster.
- Keep an eye on color and flip once the first side is golden brown, usually 3-4 minutes per side.
- If the bread browns too fast, lower the heat slightly and cook a bit longer, so filling heats through nicely.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet or griddle – perfect for melting cheese evenly and toasting bread without sticking.
- Spatula – helps you flip the sandwich gently without breaking it apart.
- Mixing bowl – for mashing avocado and mixing the chicken with spices easily.
- Knife and cutting board – to dice red onion and slice the sandwich cleanly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey or ham to change up the protein while keeping the melt delicious.
- Add slices of crispy bacon for extra crunch and smoky flavor.
- Mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Try pepper jack or cheddar cheese for a sharper, more robust taste.
How to Make a Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 slices of hearty sandwich bread (such as sourdough or country bread)
- 1 cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 slices of white cheese (such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
- Lime wedge (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 8 minutes for cooking, so around 18 minutes total. It’s a quick and satisfying sandwich you can make any day for lunch or dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Avocado Spread:
In a small bowl, mash the ripe avocado with the finely diced red onion, a pinch of salt, and a squeeze of lime juice if you like. Mix it all until creamy and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken Filling:
In another bowl, mix the shredded cooked chicken breast with garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, pepper, and chopped fresh cilantro. Combine everything well so the chicken is nicely seasoned.
3. Toast and Assemble the Sandwich:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly butter one side of each bread slice. Place one slice butter-side down on the skillet. Add half of the cheese slice, then layer the seasoned chicken, then the remaining cheese slice over the chicken. Top with the other bread slice, butter-side up.
4. Cook Until Golden and Melty:
Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom of the bread is golden brown and the cheese starts melting. Carefully flip the sandwich and cook another 3-4 minutes until the other side is also golden and the cheese is fully melted.
5. Add the Avocado and Serve:
Remove the sandwich from the skillet. Spread the mashed avocado on the top or inside of the sandwich, whichever you prefer. Slice the sandwich in half and serve warm with a wedge of lime, sweet potato fries, or a fresh salad.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Sandwich?
Yes, you can use frozen cooked chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before shredding. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat it dry to avoid extra moisture in the sandwich.
Can I Make the Avocado Spread Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the avocado mixture a few hours in advance, but to prevent browning, cover it tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface. Add a bit of lime juice to help keep it fresh and green.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwich parts separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the bread separate from the fillings to maintain crispiness. Reheat chicken and cheese in a skillet, then add fresh avocado before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Butter for Toasting?
If you prefer not to use butter, olive oil or a light spray of cooking oil works well for toasting the bread and creating a golden crust.