Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Wholesome Ingredients: Combines protein-rich chicken with healthy fats from avocado.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for a fast meal, especially with leftover or rotisserie chicken.
Customizable: Easily adaptable with your favorite breads, cheeses, and additional toppings.

Ingredients

2 slices of your preferred bread (sourdough, ciabatta, or multigrain recommended)
1 ripe avocado
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or sliced
2 slices of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack)
Butter or mayonnaise for grilling
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Avocado Spread:
- Scoop the avocado into a bowl and mash it with a fork until smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance flavor and prevent browning.
Assemble the Sandwich:
- Spread the mashed avocado evenly on one slice of bread.
- Layer the shredded or sliced chicken over the avocado spread.
- Place the cheese slices on top of the chicken.
- Top with the second slice of bread to form the sandwich.
Grill the Sandwich:
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Spread a thin layer of butter or mayonnaise on the outer sides of the bread slices.
- Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Serve:
- Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it rest for a minute.
- Slice in half and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 1 sandwich
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 13 minutes

Variations

Add Greens: Incorporate baby spinach or arugula for extra freshness and nutrients.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the avocado spread.
Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with turkey, ham, or a plant-based alternative.
Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like basil or cilantro into the avocado spread for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: While best enjoyed fresh, you can store the assembled (but not grilled) sandwich in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To prevent the bread from becoming soggy, consider packing the avocado spread separately and assembling just before grilling.
Reheating: If the sandwich has been grilled and stored, reheat it in a toaster oven or skillet over medium heat until warmed through and the bread is crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! While sourdough is recommended for its texture and flavor, you can use any bread you prefer, such as whole wheat, rye, or gluten-free options.

2. What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack are excellent choices, but feel free to use your favorite cheese or any variety you have on hand.

3. How can I prevent the avocado from browning?

Adding a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to the mashed avocado helps slow down the browning process.

4. Is this sandwich suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Store the mashed avocado and cooked chicken separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and grill the sandwich just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

5. Can I make this sandwich dairy-free?

Yes, simply use a dairy-free cheese alternative and a plant-based spread instead of butter for grilling.

6. What sides pair well with this sandwich?

Pair it with a side of tomato soup, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

7. Can I add other toppings?

Certainly! Consider adding tomato slices, or pickles to enhance the flavor and texture.

8. How do I ensure the sandwich stays together while grilling?

Press down gently with a spatula while grilling to help the ingredients meld and the cheese to adhere, keeping the sandwich intact.

9. Can I use canned chicken?

While fresh or rotisserie chicken is recommended for the best flavor and texture, canned chicken can be used in a pinch. Be sure to drain it well and season accordingly.

10. Is there a vegetarian version of this sandwich?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or portobello mushrooms, for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Conclusion

The Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich is a versatile and delectable option that brings together the rich flavors of chicken, avocado.