The Cheesy Chicken Avocado Melt You Have To Try! is a delicious combo of melted cheese, tender chicken, and creamy avocado all sandwiched between perfectly toasted bread. The mix of gooey cheese and fresh avocado gives each bite a creamy and cheesy texture that just feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love making this melt when I want something quick but still impressive. The chicken adds a nice protein punch while the avocado keeps things fresh and smooth. One little tip I’ve learned is to mash the avocado with a little lime juice before spreading—this keeps it bright and stops it from browning too fast. It’s such a simple step but makes a big difference!
Serving this melt with a crunchy side salad or some crispy sweet potato fries turns it into a complete meal that everyone loves. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for lunch or a casual dinner, and it always gets people asking for the recipe. I find myself coming back to this one whenever I want something that feels like a treat but still easy to whip up.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast works great for this melt. Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep or leftover cooked chicken. For a vegetarian twist, swap chicken with grilled mushrooms or jackfruit.
Avocado: Ripe avocado is key for creamy texture. Mash it with lime juice to keep it fresh and bright. If you don’t have lime, a splash of lemon juice works fine too.
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack melt well and add great flavor. If you want less dairy, try a mix of mozzarella and a little vegan cheese blend.
Bread: I love sourdough for its crunch and flavor, but any sturdy bread like whole wheat or rye will hold up well to the fillings.
How Can You Get the Cheese Perfectly Melted Without Burning the Bread?
Melting cheese without burning the bread can be tricky. Here’s what helps:
- Butter the bread evenly on one side to get that perfect golden crust.
- Use medium heat to allow the cheese to melt slowly while the bread crisps up.
- Cover the pan with a lid for a minute or two once the bread starts browning to trap heat and help the cheese melt faster.
- Flip carefully using a spatula, pressing gently to keep the sandwich together.
These tips make sure your melt is crispy outside and gooey inside every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet – great for toasting the sandwich evenly without sticking or burning.
- Spatula – helps you flip the melt carefully so it stays together and gets golden on both sides.
- Mixing bowl – perfect for mashing and mixing the avocado, tomato, and cilantro smoothly.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop chicken, dice tomato, and slice bread easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey or ham for a different protein twist that still pairs well with avocado.
- Try pepper jack cheese for a little spicy kick that livens up the melt.
- Add crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and flavor layers.
- Mix in fresh spinach or arugula for a touch of green and a mild peppery taste inside the sandwich.
Cheesy Chicken Avocado Melt You Have To Try!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Melt:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1 medium tomato, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8 slices of bread (sourdough or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This melt takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing the avocado topping and assembling the sandwich, then about 8-10 minutes grilling until perfectly golden and cheesy. Quick, easy, and super satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Avocado Mixture:
In a small bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice, salt, and pepper until you get a smooth yet slightly chunky texture. Gently fold in the diced tomato and chopped cilantro. Set this tasty mixture aside for later.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Butter one side of each bread slice to help get a crispy golden crust when you grill. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place four slices of bread buttered-side down in the pan. On each slice, spread shredded chicken evenly, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses generously. Spoon the avocado-tomato mixture over the cheese. Top each with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
3. Cook to Melt and Crisp:
Cook the sandwiches for 4-5 minutes on each side, flipping carefully until the bread is a deep golden brown and the cheese inside is wonderfully melted. Remove from the skillet and let the sandwiches rest for a minute, so everything sets a bit. Slice each in half, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately. Delicious!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely first. Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. Pat it dry before shredding to avoid extra moisture in your melt.
Can I Make This Melt Ahead of Time?
While it’s best served fresh and hot, you can assemble the sandwiches and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before cooking. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Wrap leftover melts tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to preserve crispiness and melty cheese.
What Can I Substitute for Bread?
If you’re avoiding gluten or want a lighter option, try using large lettuce leaves or low-carb wraps. Just be aware the crispy texture from toasted bread will be different.
