The Cheesy Chicken Avocado Melt You Have To Try is everything you want in a quick and tasty meal. It’s got tender chicken, creamy avocado, and gooey melted cheese all packed between crispy, toasted bread. Every bite is a perfect mix of melty, fresh, and flavorful textures that just makes your mouth happy.
I love making this when I’m craving something warm but still fresh. The avocado adds such a smooth, cool touch that balances perfectly with the melted cheese and savory chicken. Honestly, it feels like a little treat and a comfort food all in one. Plus, it’s super simple to put together, which is a big win on busy days!
My favorite way to serve this melt is with a side of crunchy pickles or some fresh salad to add a bit of zing and brighten things up. It’s a great lunch or dinner that fills you up without feeling heavy. I promise, once you try it, you’ll want to keep making these melts again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is great here because it’s lean and easy to shred. You can swap it for rotisserie chicken to save time or use cooked turkey for a twist.
Avocado: The ripe avocado makes this sandwich creamy and fresh. If you don’t have avocado, consider using mashed hummus or a mild soft cheese like ricotta.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds flavor. You can substitute with Monterey Jack, Colby, or a mild mozzarella if you prefer a less sharp taste.
Bread: Thick-cut white sandwich bread crisps up nicely. If you want a healthier option, try whole wheat or sourdough bread for added flavor and nutrients.
How Can You Get the Bread Crispy Without Burning It?
The secret to perfectly crispy bread is controlling your heat and using butter evenly.
- Preheat your skillet over medium heat, not too high to avoid burning.
- Spread butter evenly on the bread’s outer sides to help each slice brown crisply and evenly.
- Press the sandwich gently with a spatula while grilling to help the bread toast properly and cheese melt fast.
- Flip carefully and cook until the second side is golden brown. If it’s browning too fast, lower the heat and cook longer to melt the cheese.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet or frying pan – makes grilling the sandwich easy without sticking or burning.
- Spatula – helps you flip and press the sandwich gently for even toasting.
- Bowl – for mashing the avocado and mixing in lime juice and seasonings.
- Knife and cutting board – to slice the bread and chop any herbs for garnish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey or leftover rotisserie chicken to change up the protein while keeping it tender.
- Add crispy bacon for a smoky crunch that pairs well with creamy avocado and melted cheese.
- Mix in diced tomatoes or slices of fresh jalapeño with the avocado for a fresh or spicy twist.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little extra kick without overpowering the other flavors.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Avocado Melt
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of thick-cut white sandwich bread
- 1 tablespoon butter (for grilling bread)
- 1 cooked chicken breast, shredded or thinly sliced
- 1 ripe avocado
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for moisture)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice (to prevent avocado browning)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Cheesy Chicken Avocado Melt comes together quickly! You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the avocado spread and assembling the sandwich. Grilling takes an additional 6-8 minutes. In total, you’ll have a warm, gooey sandwich ready in about 15 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Avocado Spread:
In a small bowl, mash the ripe avocado with lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until it’s mostly smooth with a little chunkiness left. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
If you want extra creaminess, toss the shredded chicken with mayonnaise, a pinch of salt, and pepper. This step is optional but adds nice moisture and flavor.
3. Get Ready to Grill:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Butter one side of each bread slice evenly; this will help create a golden crispy crust.
4. Build the Sandwich:
Place one slice of bread, butter side down, onto the hot skillet. Layer half of the shredded cheddar cheese on the bread. Next, add the shredded chicken, then spread a generous layer of avocado mash on top. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the avocado, then top with the second slice of bread, butter side up.
5. Grill to Perfection:
Cook the sandwich for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese has melted. Use a spatula to gently press the sandwich while grilling, which helps everything hold together.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it rest for a minute. Slice it in half and garnish with fresh cilantro if you like. Serve immediately alongside fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before shredding or slicing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwich wrapped tightly in foil or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to keep the bread crispy.
Can I Substitute the Bread?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat, sourdough, or even a hearty artisan bread. Just choose a bread thick enough to hold the fillings without getting soggy.
How Do I Prevent the Avocado from Browning?
The lime juice in the avocado spread helps slow browning. To keep it fresh longer, prepare the avocado mixture just before assembling and serve immediately.
