Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe

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The Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is a flavorful sandwich that brings together smoky, spicy chipotle chicken, creamy avocado, and gooey melted cheese. Perfectly toasted bread encases these delicious ingredients, making this recipe a satisfying meal option for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack. With layers of textures and bold flavors, this melt is sure to become a household favorite.

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Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight recipe or something to impress your family or guests, the Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is versatile, simple to make, and utterly irresistible.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold Flavors: A smoky chipotle sauce combined with creamy avocado creates a perfect balance of heat and richness.
2. Versatile: Serve it as a sandwich, wrap, or even on a salad.
3. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
4. Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or switch up the cheese and bread to suit your preferences.

How to Make Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine the chopped chipotle peppers, garlic powder, paprika, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the marinade. Cover and let sit for 15-20 minutes. For enhanced flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Prepare the Chipotle Mayo

1. Mix the mayonnaise, chopped chipotle peppers, lime juice, honey, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Remove from the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice the chicken into thin strips or shred it for easier layering.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

1. Spread a generous layer of chipotle mayo on one side of each bread slice.
2. On two slices of bread, layer the chicken, avocado slices, cheese, and tomato slices. Add any optional toppings like red onion or bacon.
3. Top with the remaining bread slices, mayo side down.

Step 5: Grill the Sandwich

1. Heat a skillet or panini press over medium heat. Add butter and allow it to melt.
2. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
3. If using a panini press, cook according to the press instructions.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for 1-2 minutes.
2. Slice in half and serve warm with a side of chips, salad, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for the Best Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Ripe avocados and fresh tomatoes enhance the flavor of the sandwich.
2. Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers in both the marinade and mayo to suit your spice preference.
3. Toast Bread Evenly: Spread butter evenly on the bread for a perfect golden-brown crust.
4. Cheese Choice: Opt for melty cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone to complement the chipotle flavors.
5. Preheat the Skillet: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the sandwich for an even crisp.

Customizations and Variations

Bread Options

• Swap sourdough with ciabatta, whole grain, or a brioche bun.

Cheese Swaps

• Try pepper jack for extra heat or mozzarella for a milder taste.

Avocado Mash

• Instead of slices, mash the avocado with a pinch of salt and lime juice for easier layering.

Vegetarian Version

• Replace chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted chickpeas.

Make it a Wrap

• Use a large tortilla and roll the ingredients into a wrap for a portable option.

Serving Suggestions

1. Side Dishes: Pair with sweet potato fries, a crisp green salad, or a bowl of tomato soup.
2. Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, extra chipotle mayo, or a tangy barbecue sauce.
3. Beverages: Enjoy with lemonade, iced tea, or a refreshing cucumber-mint water.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Balance of Flavors: The smoky chipotle, creamy avocado, and melted cheese create a well-rounded taste profile.
2. Texture Contrast: Crunchy toasted bread pairs beautifully with the soft, juicy fillings.
3. Customizable: With a variety of add-ins and swaps, this sandwich caters to different preferences.
4. Meal Prep-Friendly: Cook chicken and make chipotle mayo in advance for quick assembly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Sandwich Gluten-Free?

Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free bread to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?

Absolutely. Shred or slice rotisserie chicken and toss it in the chipotle marinade for added flavor.

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What’s the Best Way to Ripen Avocados Quickly?

Place avocados in a paper bag with a banana or apple to speed up the ripening process.

Can I Freeze This Sandwich?

It’s best to freeze only the cooked chicken and prepare the rest fresh. The bread and avocado may not freeze well.

Make-Ahead Tips

1. Prep the Chicken: Marinate and cook the chicken up to 2 days in advance. Store in the refrigerator.
2. Make the Chipotle Mayo: Prepare the mayo ahead of time and keep it chilled until ready to use.
3. Assemble When Needed: Assemble and toast the sandwich fresh for the best texture and flavor.

With its bold flavors and ease of preparation, the Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is a crowd-pleasing recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. Serve it at your next family lunch or weeknight dinner and watch it disappear in no time!

Prep Time
10 minutes

Cook Time
15 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chipotle Chicken:
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce (or adobo sauce from a can of chipotle peppers)
• 2 teaspoons lime juice
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Sandwich:
• 1 large avocado, sliced or mashed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 8 slices sourdough bread (or your favorite sandwich bread)
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise or softened butter (for spreading)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• 4 slices cooked bacon (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chipotle Chicken:
-In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chipotle sauce, lime juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
-Mix until the chicken is evenly coated. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches:
-Lay out the bread slices. Spread one side of each slice with mayonnaise or butter for toasting.
-On the other (unbuttered) side, layer the fillings:
Add a generous layer of chipotle chicken.
Top with avocado slices or mashed avocado.
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the avocado.
Add bacon slices if using.
-Place another slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out.
3. Cook the Sandwiches:
-Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
-Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
-Press down gently with a spatula to ensure the sandwich stays together while toasting.
4. Serve:
-Slice the sandwiches in half and garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
-Serve immediately with chips, salad, or a cup of soup for a complete meal.

Notes

• Chicken Options: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or grill fresh chicken breasts for a smoky flavor.
• Cheese Choices: Swap out cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for a different taste.
• Bread Choices: Sourdough provides a tangy, crispy texture, but you can also use ciabatta, multigrain, or brioche.
• Make It Spicier: Add chopped chipotle peppers or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.

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