The Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich is a tasty, simple sandwich that combines juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and melted cheese all nestled between toasted bread. The avocado adds a smooth, fresh touch while the melted cheese brings a warm, gooey finish that makes every bite satisfying. It’s a fun way to enjoy a classic melt with a little twist from the avocado.
I love making this sandwich when I want something quick but still feel like I’m treating myself. The best part is how easily the flavors come together without needing lots of fancy ingredients. I usually use leftover grilled or roasted chicken, which makes it super easy to put together on busy days. The creamy avocado also means you don’t need much mayo or extra sauce—it just feels fresh and filling.
For serving, I like to pair this sandwich with a side of crispy chips or a simple green salad to keep things light. It’s great for lunch or an easy dinner, and I’ve found that pretty much everyone who tries it enjoys the blend of textures and flavors. If you’re in the mood for comfort food without the heaviness, this melt definitely hits the spot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I prefer sturdy breads like sourdough or artisan for this melt. They hold up well when toasted and add great flavor. Whole wheat or ciabatta can also work if you want a different texture.
Chicken: Grilled or pan-seared chicken breast adds a nice, juicy protein punch. Leftover cooked chicken is perfect here for quick assembly. For a lighter option, shredded rotisserie chicken works great too.
Avocado: Use ripe, creamy avocado for smoothness and a fresh taste. If you want fewer calories or are allergic, try mashed cooked peas or hummus as a substitute. Add a pinch of salt to bring out avocado’s flavor.
Cheese: I mix cheddar and mozzarella for meltiness and mild sharpness. You can swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Swiss, and mozzarella for provolone, depending on your flavor preference. Vegan cheese can be used if needed.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy, Gooey Melt?
Getting the crispy toast and melted cheese just right is key for this sandwich. Here’s how I do it:
- Butter the outside of the bread evenly for a golden crust.
- Use medium heat so the bread crisps slowly without burning.
- Press down gently with a spatula to help cheese melt and sandwich stick.
- Cook 3-4 minutes per side. Flip carefully to keep the sandwich intact.
- If cheese isn’t melting through, cover the skillet with a lid for a minute to trap heat.
Following these steps ensures a warm, melty inside with a satisfyingly crunchy outside every time. Plus, letting the sandwich rest just a minute before cutting helps keep all those tasty layers together.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet or griddle – heats the sandwich evenly and helps get a golden, crispy crust without sticking.
- Spatula – essential for flipping the sandwich gently without losing any fillings.
- Mixing bowl – to mash the avocado smoothly and season it easily.
- Knife – for slicing the cooked chicken and cutting the sandwich cleanly after cooking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey or ham to change up the protein while keeping the melt comforting.
- Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick.
- Add sliced tomatoes or crispy bacon for extra flavor and texture contrast.
- Mix chopped fresh basil or cilantro into the avocado for a fresh herb twist.
Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 slices of hearty bread (sourdough or artisan preferred)
- 1 cooked chicken breast, sliced or chopped (grilled or pan-seared)
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 cup shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and mozzarella works well)
- 1 tbsp butter
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This sandwich takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. If your chicken is already cooked, prep time is shorter. Cooking the sandwich in a skillet takes about 6-8 minutes total, allowing the bread to toast golden and the cheese to melt perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Avocado:
Peel and pit the avocado. Place it in a small bowl, add a pinch of salt and pepper, then mash it well with a fork until creamy. Set this aside for layering on your sandwich.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken (if needed):
If your chicken isn’t cooked yet, sprinkle it with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken breast over medium heat in a skillet until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Let it rest briefly, then slice or chop into pieces.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
Place one slice of bread on a cutting board. Spread a generous layer of mashed avocado on the bread. Add a layer of cooked chicken pieces on top, then sprinkle evenly with shredded cheese. Take the second slice of bread, spread mashed avocado on one side, and place it avocado side down onto the sandwich.
4. Cook the Sandwich:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread butter evenly on the outside of both bread slices. Place the sandwich carefully in the hot skillet. Press down gently with a spatula and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on one side until the bread is golden and crispy. Flip the sandwich carefully and cook the other side another 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese melts and the sandwich is heated through.
5. Serve:
Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Cut it in half, garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if you like, and enjoy your delicious chicken avocado melt!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Sandwich?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture for better searing and flavor.
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken and mash the avocado in advance, but it’s best to assemble and cook the sandwich right before eating to keep the bread crispy and avocado fresh.
What’s the Best Cheese to Use?
A blend of cheddar and mozzarella is ideal for meltiness and flavor, but feel free to use Monterey Jack, pepper jack for some spice, or even a vegan cheese alternative if preferred.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or toaster oven to maintain crispness and melted cheese.