Easy and Delicious Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich
There are days when the chaotic whirlwind of life threatens to sweep me off my feet. You know those days, right? When the laundry piles up, the kids suddenly decide that they need three new activities each, and your to-do list looks like it’s auditioning for a horror film? On days like this, finding a moment of peace in the kitchen feels nearly impossible. But then, amidst the chaos, there’s my Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich — a dish that feels like a warm hug on a particularly frenzied day.
Let’s rewind. I discovered this gem of a recipe during one of those unremarkable evenings when I rummaged through the fridge, praying for inspiration. Lo and behold, I found leftover chicken from a meal earlier in the week! Add to that an avocado that was just ripe enough to yield some creamy goodness, and there I was, yearning for an easy weeknight dinner that didn’t involve a complicated expedition into the pantry. As the comforting scents filled my kitchen, I couldn’t help but think this sandwich might just save me from my culinary misery.
What I love most about the Chicken Avocado Melt is that it’s all about the powerful combination of flavors, all brought together in this delightful package of grilled goodness. The crispy, buttery toast. The creamy avocado. The shredded chicken, mixed with a hint of tangy mustard… it all melds together in perfect harmony. It’s like a little party in your mouth, and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to be invited?
As I toasted my sandwich and flipped it like a pro (more or less, a little wobble didn’t hurt anyone), I felt that familiar comfort wash over me. It’s cozy, comforting, and so satisfying. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making it one of my go-to high protein meals — perfect for grabbing a quick bite after a workout or just winding down after a busy day.
Whether you’re hosting a casual lunch with friends, trying to impress your family with an easy dinner option, or cozying up with your favorite rom-com, this Chicken Avocado Melt hits the spot every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy to Make: Honestly, if I can throw this together without burning the bread and setting off the smoke alarms, you definitely can too!
- Picky Eater Approved: Kids love it! The blend of flavors is familiar enough that they won’t fuss, and we all appreciate that, am I right?
- Versatile and Customizable: You can add whatever you have on hand. Crispy bacon? Yes! Fresh spinach? Absolutely! No wrong answers here.
- Meal Prep Winner: I often make a larger batch of the chicken filling ahead of time. Just pop it in the fridge, and you’ve got those quick family meals on lock for the week.
- Comfort Food Done Right: It feels like a hug in a bowl (or a sandwich, in this case). You know those meals that wrap around you like a cozy blanket? This is it.
- Budget-Friendly: Using leftover chicken and simple ingredients means you’ll save some cash while enjoying hearty meals.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
The Chicken Avocado Melt stands out because it marries simplicity with flavor while allowing plenty of room for personal touches. The shredded chicken can be anything from rotisserie leftovers to a quick boiled breast (hey, I’ve had those “oops” cooking moments). The creamy avocado adds a rich texture, while the melted cheese brings everything together beautifully. We’re talking healthy comfort food at its finest here!
And let’s not forget about the crunch! When you take that first bite, the buttery, crispy toast gives way to soft chicken and just perfectly ripe avocado. It’s a delightful experience that’s bound to make your taste buds dance.
From a cooking perspective, this recipe is incredibly forgiving; it’s a great way to use what you have, making it approachable and practical — exactly what I look for in easy high protein high calorie meals. Seriously, the only real “rule” is to enjoy it!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonders here, saving you prep time and making it a perfect example of meal planning chicken in action.
- 1 ripe avocado: Choose one that gives just slightly when you press on it. Ripe avocados are the key to that creamy texture we all crave.
- 4 slices sourdough or whole grain bread: I’m a sucker for sourdough; it has that perfect balance of chewiness and crustiness. But feel free to use whatever bread you prefer!
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: Both options melt beautifully, but mozzarella gives that gooey quality that I can’t resist.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt: For creaminess, plain Greek yogurt is a healthier twist!
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional): Adds a zing! But, hey — no pressure if that’s not your thing.
- Butter or olive oil for toasting: Because we all want that golden crust.
- Optional add-ins: Tomato slices, red onion, crispy bacon, fresh spinach or arugula can elevate your sandwich to gourmet status!
Cooking Tips:
- If you’re using rotisserie chicken, check flavors before adding salt or pepper, as it might already be seasoned.
- Don’t skip the lime or lemon juice when mashing the avocado; it not only keeps it fresh but adds a bit of brightness, perfect for those healthy comfort food cravings!
How to Make It Step-by-Step
Alright, let’s finally get into the nitty-gritty of how to whip up this oh-so-delicious Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich:
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Prepare the Filling: Grab a medium mixing bowl and toss in your shredded chicken. Let’s pretend you didn’t just burn your hand on the oven rack while pulling out that leftover chicken—oops! Mix in the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) and the Dijon mustard, if you’re using it. Sprinkle in a little salt and pepper for a bit of flavor. At this point, I usually find myself tasting it, because who can resist?
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Mash the Avocado: In another bowl, take that ripe avocado and cut it in half, removing the pit (watch those fingers!) and scoop the green goodness into a bowl. Add a splash of lime or lemon juice and a little pinch of salt. Mash it up until it’s smooth but still has some texture. Pro tip: if you get distracted and over-mash it, try not to cry; just hold it together. It’ll still be delicious!
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Assemble the Sandwich: Now, let’s get assembling! Take two slices of your chosen bread and spread the mashed avocado generously on one side of each piece. Next, pile on that enticing chicken mixture. This might feel like a lot, but remember — we’re making a sandwich that’s destined for greatness! Follow up with a blanket of shredded cheese and your any of those tasty add-ins you picked.
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Toast the Sandwich: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add some butter or a drizzle of olive oil (yum!). Place your sandwiches with the filled sides facing inwards and cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently to get that golden-brown crust. Keep an eye on them; you want the cheese to melt and not disappear into oblivion. The smell? Oh man, it’s heavenly!
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Serve Warm: Once both sides are golden and the cheese is ooey-gooey, remove the sandwiches from the pan. You can slice them in half if you want to show off that cheesy goodness, or just dive in whole. Either way, you’ve got a cozy, satisfying meal waiting for you!
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh bread — nothing beats that flavor and texture.
- Don’t overload the sandwich with too many extras. Trust me; it will become a slippery mess. Sometimes, less is more.
- Adjust cooking time if you’re making multiple sandwiches at once. Don’t be shy about using the good stuff — butter is your friend here!
- Experiment with different cheeses! Smoked gouda or even pepper jack for a kick!
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
Feeling adventurous? Here are some substitutions and variations:
- Rotisserie chicken: Use turkey, or even a plant-based chicken substitute for a vegetarian version — a cool twist if you’re exploring vegan meal prep!
- Greek yogurt: Swap it out with a vegan mayo if you want to keep it plant-based.
- Cheese: Going dairy-free? Try vegan cheese; it’s getting pretty good!
- Add-ins: Swap out spinach for kale, or try roasted red peppers instead!
Directions
- In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Mash avocado with lime or lemon juice and salt.
- Spread avocado on two slices of bread, add the chicken mix, top with cheese and any add-ins, then close with remaining slices.
- Heat a skillet with butter/oil, toast sandwiches for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Serve hot, sliced if preferred.
Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)
This sandwich pairs perfectly with a side salad or some crispy sweet potato fries. I personally love a tall glass of iced tea or a refreshing lemonade on the side. And let’s be real, sliding under a cozy blanket with a rom-com after devouring one of these sandwiches is pure bliss!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If, by some miracle, you have leftovers, store the filled sandwich in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to take a bite, you can reheat it in a skillet on medium-low heat. Just keep an eye on it so the bread doesn’t get too dark before the cheese melts!
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
You can prep the chicken mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. It’s a total time-saver for busy nights. If you’re looking to freeze, seal the filling in a bag and freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then assemble those sandwiches as directed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushed Assembly: It’s tempting to throw everything together haphazardly, but take your time packing in those flavors; they deserve it!
- Too Much Avocado: You want a good balance; overstuffing can lead to a mess.
- Not Toasting: This sandwich truly shines when you get that crispy, golden bread. Don’t skip on this step!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Can I use anything other than chicken?
Yes! Shredded turkey or even a plant-based chicken alternative works great! -
Are there any good vegetarian options?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for chickpeas or a bean mixture — the filling is versatile! -
How do I store it if I have leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, and be sure to reheat in a skillet for the best results. -
Can I use a different bread type?
Sure thing! Whole grain, rye, or even gluten-free bread can be used. -
What sides pair well with the Chicken Avocado Melt?
Roasted veggies or a crunchy salad complement the sandwich brilliantly!
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Skillet or grill pan
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Final Thoughts
As I savor the last bite of my Chicken Avocado Melt, I can’t help but feel grateful for the simple joys of cooking. This sandwich has become a staple in my home, a healthy comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion, big or small.
Whether you’re juggling a busy schedule or treating yourself to a weekend brunch at home, this recipe easily fits into your life. So, go ahead and give it a try!
And hey, if you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! Your cooking journey deserves to be shared!
Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonders here.
- 1 large ripe avocado Choose one that gives slightly when pressed.
- 4 slices sourdough or whole grain bread Feel free to use whatever bread you prefer.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese Both options melt beautifully, mozzarella offers a gooey quality.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt Plain Greek yogurt is a healthier twist.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Optional; adds a zing!
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust based on your taste.
- to taste butter or olive oil For toasting the bread.
- as needed optional add-ins Tomato slices, red onion, crispy bacon, fresh spinach or arugula can elevate your sandwich.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, mash the avocado with lime or lemon juice and salt until smooth but still textured.
Assembly
- Spread mashed avocado on two slices of bread.
- Add the chicken mixture on top of the avocado and followed by shredded cheese and any optional add-ins.
- Top with the remaining slices of bread.
Cooking
- In a skillet or grill pan over medium heat, add butter or olive oil.
- Place the filled sandwiches with the filled sides facing inwards and toast for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Serving
- Remove from the pan and serve warm. Slice in half if desired.
