The Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich is a tasty, satisfying mix of tender chicken, creamy avocado, and melted cheese all stacked between two slices of toasted bread. The combination of warm, gooey cheese and fresh avocado makes every bite feel both rich and fresh. It’s a simple sandwich but packed with flavors that work really well together.
I love making this sandwich when I want something quick but also a little special. The creamy avocado adds a cool softness that balances the warm chicken and cheese perfectly. I usually mash the avocado with a little lemon juice and sprinkle of salt to keep it bright and flavorful. It really makes the sandwich feel homemade and extra delicious.
My favorite way to enjoy this melt is alongside a crisp green salad or some crunchy pickles on the side. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner when you want something easy but filling. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover cooked chicken and turn it into a fresh, tasty new meal that everyone loves.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick-cut sourdough or country white bread works best for toasting and holding the sandwich together. If you want a gluten-free option, try gluten-free sandwich bread, but be gentle when flipping.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is ideal here—leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken breast both work great. Using shredded chicken helps the sandwich fill evenly.
Avocado: Use a ripe avocado for creamy texture. If avocado isn’t available, mashed cooked peas or hummus can be tasty but will change the flavor.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, while Monterey Jack or mozzarella gives nice meltiness. Feel free to swap with your favorite melting cheese like provolone or Swiss.
Bacon: Bacon adds crunch and smoky flavor. If you prefer, try turkey bacon or omit for a milder taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy, Gooey Meltdown When Grilling This Sandwich?
Grilling the sandwich well is key to melt the cheese and toast the bread without burning. Here’s how I do it:
- Spread butter evenly on the outside of each bread slice to help with browning.
- Heat your skillet on medium—not too hot, so cheese melts inside without bread burning.
- Place sandwich in the skillet and press gently with a spatula.
- Cook 3-4 minutes each side, flipping carefully once the first side is golden brown.
- If cheese isn’t melting fully, lower heat and cover the skillet briefly to trap heat.
Patience is important here! Medium heat gives a crispy outside and gooey inside every time. Plus, pressing gently helps the layers stick together and melt nicely.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Skillet or frying pan – I use a non-stick or cast-iron skillet so the sandwich gets evenly crispy and melts the cheese well.
- Spatula – helps flip the sandwich and press it gently for a crisp, golden outside.
- Small bowl – for mashing the avocado and mixing in lemon juice and seasoning.
- Knife and cutting board – for prepping the chicken, avocado, and optional garnishes.
- Measuring spoons – to keep the toppings and ingredients balanced.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey or ham for a different protein twist.
- Use a mix of cheeses like provolone, Swiss, or pepper jack for new flavor profiles.
- Add sliced tomatoes or crispy lettuce for extra freshness and crunch.
- Sprinkle some hot sauce or add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 slices of thick-cut bread (such as sourdough or country white)
- 1 cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced or mashed
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 slice sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 slice Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to toss with avocado)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for grilling)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Approximate Time Needed:
This sandwich takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. Most of your time will be spent assembling the sandwich and grilling it to golden perfection. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Avocado:
In a small bowl, mash the avocado with lemon juice, and season with salt and black pepper to your taste. This adds flavor and keeps the avocado bright. Set it aside.
2. Assemble the Sandwich:
Spread mayonnaise on one side of each bread slice. On one slice, layer the shredded chicken evenly. Sprinkle the cooked, crumbled bacon over the chicken. Place the cheddar cheese on one half and the Monterey Jack or mozzarella on the other half of the sandwich. Finally, spread the mashed avocado over the bacon layer. Top with the other slice of bread, mayonnaise side down.
3. Grill Your Sandwich:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Place your sandwich in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula. Grill until the bread is golden and crispy, and the cheese has melted nicely. Remove from the skillet and let the sandwich rest for a minute before slicing.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your sandwich in half. If you’d like, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious chicken avocado melt!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Sandwich?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before using. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This helps ensure even heating and the best texture in your sandwich.
What’s the Best Bread for a Chicken Avocado Melt?
Thick-cut breads like sourdough or country white work best because they toast nicely and hold up to the sandwich fillings without getting soggy. You can also try whole wheat or gluten-free bread if preferred.
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
For best results, assemble and grill just before eating. If necessary, you can prepare the chicken and avocado mixture a few hours ahead and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and grill right before serving to keep the bread crisp and avocado fresh.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, toast the sandwich gently in a skillet or use a sandwich press to bring back the crispiness and melted cheese.