Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich
The Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich is a deliciously simple combination of tender chicken, creamy avocado, and gooey melted cheese all tucked between slices of toasted bread. The mix of warm,…
Tip: save now, cook later.The Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich is a deliciously simple combination of tender chicken, creamy avocado, and gooey melted cheese all tucked between slices of toasted bread. The mix of warm, melted cheese and fresh avocado gives this sandwich a lovely balance of flavors and textures that is both satisfying and fresh.
I love making this sandwich when I want a quick lunch that feels a bit special but doesn’t take a lot of time. The avocado adds a nice smoothness and a healthy twist, while the melted cheese brings that comforting, melty goodness I always crave. It’s easy to customize too—sometimes I like adding a little tomato or a sprinkle of pepper to kick it up a notch.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy the Chicken Avocado Melt is with a crisp side salad or some crunchy chips. It’s perfect for a weekday lunch or a casual dinner, and it always gets people asking for the recipe. If you’re in the mood for something warm, creamy, and fresh all at once, this sandwich is a great choice that’s sure to hit the spot.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick-cut bread like sourdough or country white gives great structure and toasts up nicely. For a healthier take, try whole wheat or multigrain bread. Gluten-free bread works too if needed.
Avocado: Use a ripe, creamy avocado for smooth texture and mild flavor. If avocados aren’t available, you can swap with hummus or a light spread of cream cheese for creaminess.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken breast adds lean protein. Leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken works perfectly. For a vegetarian swap, grilled portobello mushroom or firm tofu can be used.
Cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella melts well and offers a nice flavor balance. Feel free to use Monterey Jack, provolone, or even pepper jack if you want some kick.
Fresh Herbs and Tomatoes: Cilantro and diced tomatoes brighten the sandwich. You can substitute chopped parsley or basil if preferred, and omit tomatoes if you like a less juicy sandwich.
How Do I Get the Perfect Melty Cheese and Crispy Bread Every Time?
Getting gooey cheese with crispy bread is the heart of this sandwich. Here’s what I do for the best results:
- Use medium heat—not too high—to give the cheese time to melt without burning the bread.
- Lightly toast the bread first to prevent sogginess from avocado and chicken.
- Cook the sandwich slowly, about 3-4 minutes each side, and cover the pan briefly to trap heat and speed cheese melting.
- Use a little butter or olive oil to crisp up the bread evenly and add flavor.
- After cooking, let the sandwich rest for a minute so the cheeses settle and don’t ooze out when you slice.
With these tips, you’ll have a perfectly melted, golden sandwich that holds together beautifully and tastes amazing every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet or frying pan – perfect for toasting bread evenly and melting cheese without sticking.
- Spatula – helps you flip the sandwich gently without losing any filling.
- Mixing bowls – handy for mashing avocado and mixing chicken with herbs and tomatoes.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing avocado, chopping cilantro, and dicing tomatoes cleanly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cooked chicken for turkey or ham for a different protein that still melts well.
- Use pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese to add a mild spicy kick.
- Add crispy bacon strips to the sandwich for extra crunch and smoky flavor.
- Include sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist I love on warmer days.
How to Make a Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 slices of bread (thick-cut, such as sourdough or country white)
- 1/2 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter (for toasting)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick meal, perfect for a tasty lunch or dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Avocado and Chicken Mixture:
In a small bowl, mash the avocado with a pinch of salt and pepper. In another bowl, mix the cooked chicken, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, salt, pepper, and an optional pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
2. Toast the Bread and Spread Mayonnaise:
Lightly toast the bread slices until golden. If you like, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of each slice.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
On one slice of bread, spread the mashed avocado evenly. Layer the chicken mixture on top, then sprinkle the mixed shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the chicken. Top with the second slice of bread, mayonnaise side down if used.
4. Cook the Sandwich:
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until golden and the cheese is melted. Cover the pan briefly if needed to help the cheese melt.
5. Serve:
Remove the sandwich from heat and let it rest for a minute. Slice it in half and serve immediately, garnished with extra chopped cilantro if you like. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich with your favorite side!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for the Sandwich?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or using the cold water method before shredding. This helps ensure even cooking and the best texture.
Can I Make the Sandwich Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken mixture and mash the avocado up to a day in advance, but it’s best to assemble and toast the sandwich right before eating to keep the bread crispy and the avocado fresh.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the bread crisp and melt the cheese.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve With This?
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, crispy fries, or even some crunchy veggie sticks for a lighter meal.