Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe

The Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is a fan-favorite sandwich that perfectly balances bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. With smoky chipotle mayo, tender chicken, creamy avocado, and melted cheese nestled between slices of perfectly grilled bread, this sandwich is a comfort food classic with a gourmet twist.

While you can head to Panera for a bite, there’s something special about recreating this masterpiece at home. It’s surprisingly easy to make, customizable to suit your preferences, and a great way to elevate your sandwich game. This guide will show you how to prepare a spot-on replica of this delectable melt in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold Flavors: The smoky chipotle mayo is the star of the show, providing just the right amount of heat and depth.
2. Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with avocado, chicken, and fresh bread, this sandwich feels indulgent yet balanced.
3. Customizable: Adjust the spice level, cheese, or bread to suit your tastes.
4. Quick and Easy: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a satisfying snack in under 30 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chipotle Mayo

1. Add mayonnaise, chipotle peppers, lime juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt to a food processor or blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust spice level by adding more chipotle peppers if desired.
3. Transfer the mayo to a small bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cooked Chicken: If using raw chicken, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes per side. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.
2. Avocado: Slice the avocado just before assembling to keep it fresh and vibrant.
3. Bread: Slice the ciabatta bread in half if not pre-sliced.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

1. Spread a generous layer of chipotle mayo on one side of each bread slice.
2. Layer the ingredients in this order:
   • Chicken slices or shreds
   • Slices of avocado
   • Pickled red onions (optional)
   • Fresh arugula or spinach (optional)
   • Smoked Gouda cheese slices
3. Top with the second slice of bread, mayo side down, to complete the sandwich.

Step 4: Grill the Sandwich

1. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Spread butter evenly on the outside of each sandwich slice.
3. Place the sandwich on the hot skillet. Press down gently with a spatula or grill press.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Reduce heat if needed to avoid burning.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side: Pair with a simple side salad, sweet potato fries, or Panera’s famous broccoli cheddar soup.
• Dipping Sauce: Serve extra chipotle mayo on the side for dipping.
• Beverage Pairing: Complement with a refreshing iced tea or a creamy latte.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Bread: Opt for crusty ciabatta or sourdough for the best texture and flavor.
2. Perfect Cheese Melt: Cover the skillet with a lid during grilling to trap heat and melt the cheese evenly.
3. Balance Flavors: Add a pinch of sugar or honey to the chipotle mayo if you prefer a touch of sweetness to balance the heat.
4. Keep It Crispy: Avoid overloading the sandwich with wet ingredients to maintain a crispy exterior.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted red peppers.
2. Keto-Friendly: Swap bread for lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas.
3. Extra Spicy: Add jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce to the chipotle mayo.
4. Mediterranean Twist: Replace chipotle mayo with tzatziki sauce and add sun-dried tomatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble the sandwich without grilling and refrigerate. Grill just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
2. What’s a good substitute for smoked Gouda?
   Monterey Jack, Havarti, or even sharp cheddar work wonderfully.
3. How do I make it spicier?
   Add more chipotle peppers, drizzle hot sauce over the filling, or include fresh jalapeño slices.
4. Can I use store-bought chipotle mayo?
   Absolutely! If short on time, store-bought chipotle mayo is a great alternative.

Conclusion

The Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is a gourmet delight that’s simple to recreate at home. This recipe ensures you get all the signature flavors—smoky chipotle mayo, tender chicken, creamy avocado, and melty cheese—in every bite.

Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or serving it at your next gathering, this sandwich is guaranteed to impress. Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and enjoy a warm, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious homemade masterpiece!

Yield: 4 Sandwiches

Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe

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The Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is a fan-favorite sandwich that perfectly balances bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. With smoky chipotle mayo, tender chicken, creamy avocado, and melted cheese nestled between slices of perfectly grilled bread, this sandwich is a comfort food classic with a gourmet twist.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Sandwiches:
• 4 ciabatta rolls or sandwich bread of choice
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 4 slices smoked gouda cheese
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
• 1/4 cup pickled red onions (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or softened butter for toasting
• For the Chipotle Mayo:
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• Pinch of garlic powder

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chipotle Mayo

• In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, lime juice, and garlic powder until smooth. Set aside.

2. Assemble the Sandwiches

• Slice the ciabatta rolls in half and spread the chipotle mayo generously on both halves.
• Layer the shredded chicken, roasted red peppers, sliced avocado, pickled red onions (if using), and smoked gouda cheese on the bottom half of each roll.
• Place the top half of the roll over the filling.

3. Toast the Sandwiches

• Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
• Lightly brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil or spread with softened butter.
• Place the sandwiches on the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted.

4. Serve

• Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, slice in half, and serve warm.

Notes

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers in the mayo to suit your heat preference.
• Protein Swap: Try turkey, grilled chicken breast, or even tofu for a twist.
• Bread Options: Panini bread, focaccia, or sourdough are great alternatives.