If you are searching for a sandwich that perfectly balances creamy avocado, tender chicken, and melted cheese all between toasted bread, you have just found it. The Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich Recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a mouthwatering, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug. This recipe is not only easy to put together in under 20 minutes, but it also brings rich flavors and textures with every bite. Whether for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this sandwich will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing the Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich Recipe requires just a handful of fresh and pantry staples, but each one plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible blend of flavors. From the creamy avocado to the sharp cheese, every ingredient brings brightness, creaminess, or a toasty crunch to the final stack.
- Cooked chicken (2 cups): Use shredded or diced chicken for tender, protein-packed filling.
- Ripe avocado (1): Mashed avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats to the sandwich.
- Greek yogurt or mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and a creamy texture that binds the filling.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Provides a subtle tang and depth of flavor.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the mixture and prevents avocado from browning.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances savory notes without overpowering.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a mild sharpness complementing the chicken.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to tie the flavors together.
- Whole grain or sourdough bread (4 slices): Provides a sturdy foundation with a lovely toasted crunch.
- Shredded cheese (1 cup): Cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese for gooey meltiness.
- Fresh spinach or arugula (1/2 cup, optional): Adds a fresh, slightly peppery bite and vibrant color.
- Butter or olive oil: For grilling and achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
How to Make Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Chicken and Avocado
Start by placing your shredded or diced cooked chicken into a large mixing bowl. Add the ripe avocado that you’ve mashed until smooth and creamy. The ripeness of the avocado is essential here – it gives the sandwich that luscious texture that balances the chicken perfectly.
Step 2: Mix in Creamy Ingredients and Seasonings
To the bowl, add Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to bring in that smooth moisture that the filling needs. Next, stir in the Dijon mustard and lemon juice. These ingredients add brightness and a slight kick. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then mix everything thoroughly until you have a uniform, flavorful filling. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
Take your slices of bread and spread a thin layer of butter or drizzle olive oil on one side only. This will be the side that touches the skillet to make the bread golden and crispy when grilled.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
Now, flip the bread so the buttered side is down. On the unbuttered side of two slices, generously spread the chicken avocado mixture. Top the filling with a good sprinkle of shredded cheese. If you like, add fresh spinach or arugula for some added crunch and a pop of green. Close your sandwiches by placing the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing up.
Step 5: Grill the Sandwich
Heat a skillet or griddle to medium heat. Place your sandwiches buttered side down and grill for about 3 to 4 minutes, until you see a gorgeous golden crust. Flip carefully and grill the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes. Press down gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt and bind the sandwich together.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Once both sides are perfectly browned and the cheese is melted, remove your sandwiches from the pan. Let them cool for a minute or so – this rest time allows the filling to set just enough so it doesn’t spill out when sliced. Cut your sandwich in half and serve warm.
How to Serve Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top can add a fragrant freshness that brightens each bite. A light drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a smear of tangy aioli pairs wonderfully as well, bringing an extra layer of bold flavor to the Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich Recipe.
Side Dishes
Crispy chips or a vibrant side salad perfectly complement the sandwich’s creamy texture. If you want something lighter, opt for fresh-cut veggies or a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. These thoughtful pairings don’t just round out the meal but make every bite feel complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try cutting the sandwich into smaller slider-sized portions to serve at gatherings or kid-friendly lunches. You can also grill the sandwich in a panini press to get those attractive grill marks and intensified cheesy melt. Wrapping the sandwich in parchment paper adds a rustic, hand-held charm, making it ideal for picnics or on-the-go meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken avocado filling separately in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 2 days. The bread and assembled sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for a few hours if needed.
Freezing
This sandwich does not freeze well after assembly due to the avocado’s texture changing, so it’s best to freeze cooked chicken separately if you want to prep ahead. Assemble fresh when ready for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftover sandwiches in a skillet over low to medium heat to bring back the crispiness of the bread and remelt the cheese. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy. A quick 2-3 minute toast on each side works wonders for reviving your Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While whole grain or sourdough bread add great flavor and texture, you can use any bread you prefer, including gluten-free varieties or sandwich rolls. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the filling when grilled.
Is Greek yogurt necessary in the filling?
The Greek yogurt adds creaminess and moisture without making the filling heavy. If you prefer, mayonnaise can be used instead to achieve a richer taste. You can also adjust the amount to suit your preferred consistency.
Can I add other vegetables to the sandwich?
Yes! Adding sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, or roasted peppers can enhance the sandwich with extra texture and flavor. Just be mindful not to overload it so the sandwich remains easy to eat.
How ripe should the avocado be for this recipe?
You want an avocado that’s soft enough to mash easily but not so ripe that it’s overly mushy or brown. A perfectly ripe avocado is key to getting that creamy, smooth filling that complements the chicken perfectly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Sure! Swap the chicken for cooked jackfruit, chickpeas, or a plant-based chicken substitute. The creamy avocado and melted cheese will still make this a delicious, satisfying sandwich without the meat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a sandwich that is quick, delicious, and packed with fresh flavors, and the Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich Recipe ticks all those boxes. It’s a perfect option whether you’re cooking for yourself, lunching with friends, or feeding the family. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find a new favorite that you come back to again and again.
Print
Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich is a delicious, creamy, and healthy twist on a classic grilled cheese. Combining shredded chicken with ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, and spices, then melting it all between crisp, buttery toasted bread makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, this sandwich balances protein, healthy fats, and fresh greens for a tasty, wholesome treat.
Ingredients
Chicken Avocado Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sandwich Assembly
- 4 slices of whole grain or sourdough bread
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach or arugula (optional)
- Butter or olive oil for grilling
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or diced chicken with the mashed avocado. Ensure the avocado is ripe and creamy for the best texture.
- Add Creaminess: Stir in the Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to add moisture and creaminess to the mixture.
- Season the Mix: Add Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Butter the Bread: Spread a thin layer of butter or drizzle olive oil on one side of each bread slice for grilling.
- Assemble the Sandwich: On the unbuttered side of two slices, generously spread the chicken avocado mixture, then sprinkle shredded cheese over it. Add spinach or arugula if using.
- Top the Sandwich: Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing outwards to form the sandwich.
- Preheat Skillet: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Grill the Sandwich: Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown.
- Flip and Press: Flip the sandwiches and cook another 3-4 minutes, pressing gently with a spatula to melt the cheese and toast evenly.
- Finish and Rest: Remove from the skillet when both sides are golden and cheese is melted. Let sandwiches cool for a minute.
- Serve: Slice sandwiches in half and serve warm with your choice of side like chips, salad, or fresh fruit. Optionally drizzle with hot sauce or sprinkle fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe avocado for best texture and flavor.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt with mayonnaise or a vegan mayo for creaminess.
- Cheese choices like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack work well and can be mixed.
- For extra crunch, add sliced tomato or crispy bacon.
- Cook over medium heat to ensure bread crisps evenly without burning.
- Spinach or arugula is optional but adds freshness and a nutrient boost.
- Customize spice levels with a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce in the filling.
