If you’re craving a quick, flavor-packed quick romantic dinner recipe that feels gourmet without demanding much effort, this Chicken Avocado Melt recipe is exactly what you need. Inspired by the popular Panera version, this homemade twist brings melty cheese, smoky chipotle, and creamy avocado together between warm, toasty focaccia. It’s fast enough for weeknights but delicious enough to satisfy any comfort-food craving.
This dinner recipe takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish, uses simple everyday ingredients, and is completely customizable. Whether you prefer mild heat or love bold spice, this sandwich delivers an irresistible combination of textures and flavhttps://happinessdish.com/dinner/ors that never disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Dinner Recipe
- Budget-friendly: Enjoy Panera-style quality at home for a fraction of the price.
- Fast prep: Ready in under 20 minutes — perfect for busy dinners.
- Easy ingredients: Everything is common, accessible, and customizable.
- Melty, creamy, smoky: Every bite balances chipotle heat with cool avocado and gooey cheese.
- Great for meal prep: Assemble ahead or pack for lunches.
Ingredients for the Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich
- Focaccia bread
Black pepper or garlic-herb focaccia gives the best texture and flavor. Sourdough or ciabatta work great too. - Shredded rotisserie chicken (6 oz)
A fantastic shortcut for fast dinners. Leftover chicken or sliced deli chicken works as well. - 1 ripe avocado, sliced
Adds creaminess and richness that pairs perfectly with smoky chipotle. - ¼ cup mayonnaise
Used to make the chipotle mayo base. - 6 chipotle peppers in adobo
The smoky star ingredient that gives the melt its signature kick. - ¼ cup chopped cilantro
Brightens and freshens each bite. - ¼ cup chopped Peppadew peppers
Or substitute sweet & hot cherry peppers for a similar flavor. - 4 oz sliced Gouda cheese
Gouda melts beautifully, but cheddar or provolone also work. - 2 tablespoons water
Helps steam and melt the sandwich perfectly in the skillet.
How to Make This Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe
Step 1 — Make the Chipotle Mayo
Chop the chipotle peppers finely. Mix them into the mayo until smooth, creamy, and evenly combined. Set aside.
Step 2 — Assemble the Sandwiches
Slice each flat focaccia loaf into four squares, giving you eight pieces total.
Spread chipotle mayo generously on each slice.
On four of the slices, layer in this order:
- Gouda cheese
- Avocado slices
- Shredded chicken
- Chopped cilantro
- Peppadew peppers
Top with the remaining focaccia pieces.
Step 3 — Toast and Melt
Heat a skillet (non-stick or cast iron) over medium-high.
Place one or two sandwiches in the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes, until golden on the underside.
Flip gently.
Tilt the pan, pour in ½ tablespoon of water, then cover immediately.
Let the sandwiches steam for 1 minute to melt the cheese perfectly.
Repeat with remaining sandwiches.
Tips & Tricks
- Prevent brown avocado: Brush slices with lemon juice if packing for lunch.
- Boost flavor: Add minced garlic or a pinch of salt to the chipotle mayo.
- Customize easily: Swap chicken for turkey, add tomato slices, or mix in caramelized onions.
- Make it spicier: Add an extra chopped chipotle pepper or a splash of adobo sauce.
❓ FAQ
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Assemble the sandwiches and refrigerate. Toast just before serving.
What if I don’t have focaccia?
Any sturdy bread works — sourdough, ciabatta, or even French bread.
Can I bake instead of pan-sear?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.
Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 16 minutes
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Avocado Melt dinner recipe, with all the melty, smoky goodness of the Panera classic — but fresher, cheaper, and even tastier.
