This melt features tender chicken breast marinated in a chipotle sauce, topped with fresh avocado, melted cheese, and served on crispy, toasty bread. The addition of fresh greens and tomatoes enhances the flavor profile, providing a delightful crunch with each bite. It’s a perfect balance of heat and freshness that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
To make the Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt, you will need the following ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices of sourdough or whole-grain bread
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a cheese of your choice)
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- Fresh spinach or arugula
- Butter or olive oil for grilling
Method
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine the chipotle sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, coating them well with the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- On two slices of bread, layer the sliced chicken, avocado, cheese, tomato, and spinach. Top with the remaining slices of bread.
- Grill the Sandwich:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter or olive oil. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted. You can cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt faster.
- Serve:
- Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, slice them in half, and serve immediately while warm.
Variations & Tips
- Protein Swap: You can substitute chicken with turkey, steak, or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella for varied flavor profiles.
- Spice Level: Adjust the chipotle sauce according to your spice tolerance. For a milder option, use less sauce or opt for a mild salsa.
- Additional Toppings: Consider adding jalapeños for extra heat, or a drizzle of lime juice for added freshness.
Conclusion
The Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is not just a sandwich; it’s a flavor-packed meal that is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a filling dinner, this melt is sure to impress. Enjoy the satisfaction of crafting a delicious sandwich that rivals your favorite café while using fresh ingredients right from your kitchen. Give it a try, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again!