Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

Featured in Irresistible Tasty Bites.

10-minute Panera-inspired sandwich combining smoked chicken, avocado, and peppers with homemade chipotle sauce. Can be made dairy-free. Quick and satisfying meal.
Clare Greco
Updated on Thu, 30 Jan 2025 18:13:22 GMT
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Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt | recipesbyclare.com

The moment these smoky, perfectly toasted sourdough slices hit your plate, you know you're in for something special. This chipotle chicken melt combines creamy avocado, zesty peppers, and a homemade chipotle sauce that'll make you forget about takeout sandwiches forever. I stumbled upon this combination while trying to recreate my favorite café sandwich, and honestly? This version hits different.

The first time I made this for my family, the kitchen fell silent - you know, that good kind of silence when everyone's too busy enjoying their food to talk. Now it's our go-to weekend lunch, especially when we're craving something cozy but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Pick Your Ingredients

  • Sourdough Bread: Get fresh, thick-cut slices from your local bakery
  • Avocados: Look for ones that yield slightly when pressed
  • Smoked Chicken: I prefer freshly smoked, but rotisserie works beautifully too
  • Peppadew Peppers: These sweet-spicy gems add a unique punch
  • Chipotle in Adobo: Just the sauce gives the perfect smoky kick
  • Quality Mayo: Full-fat creates the creamiest base for our sauce
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Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe | recipesbyclare.com

Let's Cook It

Start with the Sauce:
  • Blend mayo with chipotle sauce until smooth
  • Add fresh lemon juice and minced garlic
  • Season gradually - you can always add more salt later
  • Let it rest while you prep other ingredients
Prep Your Components:
  • Slice your avocado right before assembly
  • Cut peppers into thin strips
  • Have your chicken ready at room temperature
  • Chop fresh cilantro last minute
Build Your Masterpiece:
  • Heat your skillet until a water drop dances
  • Brush bread generously with olive oil
  • Layer cheese first for optimal melting
  • Add chicken, then avocado slices
  • Sprinkle peppers and cilantro
  • Spread chipotle sauce on top slice
The Final Touch:
  • Press gently but don't squash
  • Cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes each side
  • Let rest for one minute before cutting
  • Serve while still warm and melty

My grandmother always said the secret to great cooking is patience, and this sandwich proves her right. I've learned that letting the sauce sit for a bit while prepping other ingredients makes a world of difference in flavor development.

I love playing around with different add-ins depending on what's in my fridge. Sometimes I'll toss in some caramelized onions for sweetness, or add cucumber slices for extra crunch. Each variation brings something new to the table.

This sandwich has become my go-to when I'm hosting lunch for friends. It's impressive enough to serve to guests but simple enough that I'm not stressed about making it. Plus, that chipotle sauce always gets people asking for the recipe.

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Easy Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt | recipesbyclare.com

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Toast the bread on both sides before adding toppings
  • Mash some of the avocado to create a spread that holds everything together
  • Use the sauce sparingly at first - you can always add more

After countless iterations, I can honestly say this sandwich has earned its spot in my weekly rotation. There's something magical about that first bite - when the crispy bread gives way to the creamy avocado and smoky chicken. It's comfort food elevated to something special, yet still totally doable for a quick lunch or dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Is this exactly like Panera's version?
Similar flavors but customizable at home with preferred ingredients and portions.
→ What is Chao cheese?
A dairy-free cheese alternative. Can use regular cheese if dairy isn't a concern.
→ Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes, chipotle sauce keeps well in fridge for up to a week.
→ Where do I find Peppadew peppers?
Usually in grocery store olive bars or jarred pepper section.
→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, though smoked chicken provides more authentic flavor.

Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

A Panera copycat sandwich featuring smoked chicken, avocado, and peppadew peppers with zesty chipotle sauce on toasted sourdough.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
5 Minutes
Total Time
10 Minutes

Category: Tasty Bites

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 1 Servings (1 sandwich)

Dietary: Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Sandwich Base

01 2 slices sourdough bread
02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 2 ounces smoked chicken breast, sliced
04 ¼ avocado, sliced

→ Toppings

05 3 Peppadew peppers, sliced
06 1 tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro
07 1 slice Chao creamy original cheese

→ Chipotle Sauce

08 ½ cup mayonnaise
09 1 tablespoon chipotle adobo sauce
10 1 tablespoon lemon juice
11 1 clove garlic, minced
12 ¼ teaspoon coarse salt

Instructions

Step 01

Stir together chipotle sauce ingredients until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste

Step 02

Brush bread outsides with oil. Layer ingredients starting with cheese, spread chipotle sauce inside

Step 03

Toast in skillet over medium-high heat until golden and cheese melts. Flip and toast other side

Step 04

Remove from heat, slice in half and serve

Notes

  1. Inspired by Panera's sandwich
  2. Dairy-free when using Chao cheese

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Small mixing bowl

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Wheat (sourdough bread)
  • Eggs (mayonnaise)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 730
  • Total Fat: 34 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 80 g
  • Protein: 28 g