I love how this Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich brings together creamy avocado, tender chicken, and perfectly melted cheese in one satisfying bite. There’s something about that golden, crispy bread giving way to warm, gooey layers inside that just hits the spot every time. I first made this sandwich on a busy Tuesday when I needed something quick but didn’t want to sacrifice flavor. One bite and I knew this would become a regular in my dinner rotation.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich
I always use fresh, ripe avocado for this recipe because it makes all the difference in getting that creamy texture without any lumps. When selecting your bread, I recommend choosing a sturdy sourdough or artisan loaf that can hold up to grilling without getting soggy. If you love grilled sandwiches like I do, you might also enjoy my Sourdough Pesto Grilled Cheese for another delicious option. These simple ingredients come together to create something truly delicious.
- 2 slices sourdough or artisan bread
- 1/2 ripe avocado, mashed—my preference is Hass avocados for their buttery flavor (look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure)
- 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken (grilled or rotisserie)—I usually grab a rotisserie chicken from the store to save time
- 2 slices cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise or aioli (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice—in my experience, this keeps the avocado from browning and adds brightness
- 1 tablespoon butter for toasting
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional add-ins: sliced tomato, red onion, or crispy bacon—pro tip: crispy bacon takes this to the next level
Step-by-Step Instructions
I recommend working with room temperature ingredients when possible, as they blend more easily and the cheese melts faster. Taking just a few extra seconds to prep everything before you start cooking makes the whole process smoother.
Step 1: In a small bowl, mash the avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. This should take about 30 seconds—you want it spreadable but still with a bit of texture.
Step 2: Spread mayonnaise on one side of each bread slice if using. On the opposite side of one slice, spread your avocado mixture evenly, then layer the shredded chicken on top, followed by the cheese slices.
Step 3: Place the second bread slice on top with the mayo side facing outward. This creates a barrier that helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior without burning.
Step 4: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat (around 325-350°F if your stovetop has temperature control)—not too hot or your bread will burn before the cheese melts. Once the butter is foaming, add your sandwich and grill for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side without moving it. This allows a proper crust to form.
Step 5: Flip the sandwich carefully using a spatula, pressing gently to help the cheese melt evenly. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. If needed, cover the skillet with a lid for 30 seconds to speed up the melting process.
Step 6: Remove from heat, let it rest for one minute, then slice in half diagonally and serve immediately while it’s hot and gooey.
Perfect Pairings for Your Chicken Avocado Melt
A great sandwich deserves equally great sides that complement its creamy, savory flavors while adding variety to your plate.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crispy texture of sweet potato fries balance the rich, creamy sandwich perfectly, plus they add a nutritious boost of fiber and vitamins. For a complete meal with similar flavors, try pairing with Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the melted cheese and provides a refreshing contrast.
Classic Tomato Soup: Nothing beats the nostalgic combination of a grilled sandwich with warm tomato soup for dipping, especially on cooler evenings when you want ultimate comfort food. If you enjoy soup and sandwich combos, you’ll love my Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup.
Crispy Pickle Spears: The tangy, briny crunch of dill pickles provides a sharp contrast that cleanses your palate between bites of the rich, buttery sandwich.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing fruit brings natural sweetness and helps balance the savory flavors, making this combo perfect for a lighter dinner option.
Keeping It Fresh and Delicious
This sandwich is definitely best enjoyed fresh from the pan when the cheese is still melty and the bread is at its crispiest. If you do have leftovers, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to one day, though the texture won’t be quite the same.
For reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave. The microwave will make the bread soggy and tough, while a pan brings back some of that crispy exterior. Heat for about 2 minutes per side until warmed through.
This sandwich is also fantastic for meal prep if you keep the components separate. Store cooked chicken, mashed avocado with lemon juice, and sliced cheese in separate containers, then assemble and grill fresh when you’re ready to eat. If you’re looking for more chicken meal prep ideas, check out my Mediterranean Chicken Gyros or Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Monterey Jack melt beautifully, Swiss, provolone, or even pepper jack work wonderfully and add their own unique flavors to the sandwich.
How do I prevent the avocado from turning brown?
The lemon juice in the recipe helps prevent browning, but you can also press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of mashed avocado if making it ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Can I make this sandwich in a panini press?
Yes! A panini press works great for this recipe. Just brush the outside of the bread with melted butter instead of using butter in a pan, then press for about 4 to 5 minutes until golden and crispy.
Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, mash the avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy, about 30 seconds.
- Spread mayonnaise on one side of each bread slice if using. On the opposite side of one slice, spread the avocado mixture evenly, then layer the shredded chicken on top, followed by the cheese slices.
- Place the second bread slice on top with the mayo side facing outward.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat (around 325-350°F if your stovetop has temperature control). Once the butter is foaming, add your sandwich and grill for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side without moving it.
- Flip the sandwich carefully using a spatula, pressing gently to help the cheese melt evenly. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. If needed, cover the skillet with a lid for 30 seconds.
- Remove from heat, let it rest for one minute, then slice in half diagonally and serve immediately.
Notes
