The Cheesy Chicken Avocado Melt You Have To Try! is a fantastic mix of creamy avocado, tender chicken, and gooey melted cheese all sandwiched between perfectly toasted bread. It’s the kind of meal that feels both fresh and comforting at the same time. The combination of flavors is simple but hits just right—each bite brings a nice balance of cheesy goodness and the cool, smooth avocado.
I love making this melt when I want something quick but satisfying. It only takes a few minutes to put together, and the melted cheese stretching as you take a bite is always a crowd-pleaser in my house. One tip I have is to use ripe avocados so they’re nice and creamy without being mushy. That little touch makes a world of difference!
This melt is perfect for lunch or a casual dinner, and I often serve it with a side of fresh salad or crunchy chips. It’s the kind of recipe that can brighten up any day, whether you’re feeding yourself or sharing with friends. I always look forward to making it again because it’s such a reliable, tasty go-to that never gets old.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breast: Cooked chicken brings protein and a mild flavor. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover grilled chicken. For a lighter option, turkey breast works well too.
Avocado: Choose ripe avocados that yield to gentle pressure but aren’t mushy. If avocados aren’t available, try a spread of hummus or cream cheese for creaminess.
Cheddar cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully and adds sharpness. You can swap it with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack if you want a bit of spice.
Bread: Sourdough gives a nice tang and crunch, but white sandwich bread or whole wheat are also great choices. Just pick a bread that can hold up to grilling without getting soggy.
How Do You Get the Perfect Melty Cheese and Crispy Bread?
The key to this melt’s success is balancing gooey cheese and crispy toasted bread. Here’s how I make it work every time:
- Spread butter or mayo on the outside of the bread slices. This helps create a golden crust while grilling.
- Use medium heat—not too high—to melt the cheese slowly and brown the bread evenly.
- Press the sandwich lightly with a spatula to ensure even cooking and help the ingredients stick together.
- Cook each side for 3-4 minutes, and watch closely to avoid burning.
- Once the cheese is melted and bread is crispy, remove and let it rest a minute for easier slicing.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet or frying pan – perfect for grilling the sandwich evenly without sticking.
- Spatula – helps you flip the melt gently and press it down for even cooking.
- Fork and small bowl – for mashing the avocado smoothly with salt and pepper.
- Knife and cutting board – to slice the chicken, avocado, and sandwich cleanly.
- Plate or cooling rack – to rest the sandwich before slicing so it holds together better.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey or ham for a different deli-style melt experience that’s still hearty.
- Use pepper jack or mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a creamier or spicier melt.
- Add sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra juiciness and color.
- Mix chopped cilantro or fresh basil into the avocado spread to brighten the flavor.
Cheesy Chicken Avocado Melt You Have To Try!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
- 1 ripe avocado
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough or white sandwich bread works well)
For Spreading and Cooking:
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise or butter (for spreading on bread)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for grilling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: hot sauce or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious melt takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 8 minutes to cook. So in around 18 minutes, you’ll have a cheesy, creamy sandwich ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Avocado Spread:
In a small bowl, mash the ripe avocado with a fork until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. For a little extra flavor, you can mix in some lime juice or hot sauce if you like a spicy kick.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Lay out your bread slices. Spread mayonnaise or butter on one side of each slice – this will help the bread crisp up nicely while grilling. On the non-spread side of two slices, evenly layer half of the cooked chicken. Then place cheddar cheese slices on top, followed by a generous spread of the mashed avocado. Add hot sauce or jalapeños if you’d like some heat. Cover with the remaining bread slices, making sure the buttered side faces outward.
3. Grill the Melt:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Use a spatula to press gently for even cooking.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the sandwiches from the pan and let them rest for a minute. Slice them in half, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve immediately. This melt goes great with fries or a fresh salad on the side!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Melt?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before using. The best way is to thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick-thaw method by placing sealed chicken in cold water. Pat it dry before assembling your sandwich to avoid extra moisture.
Can I Make These Sandwiches Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance, like cooking and shredding the chicken or mashing the avocado (add a little lime juice to keep it from browning). However, it’s best to assemble and grill the sandwiches just before serving for the crispiest bread and meltiest cheese.
What’s a Good Substitute for Cheddar Cheese?
Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack are tasty alternatives. They melt well and offer mild to spicy flavors, depending on your preference.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwich halves wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to help maintain the crispy bread and melted cheese texture.
