The Cheesy Chicken Avocado Melt You Have To Try is a delicious and satisfying sandwich that combines creamy avocado, tender chicken, and melty cheese all toasted to golden perfection. The mix of gooey cheese and fresh avocado makes every bite comforting and fresh at the same time.
I love making this sandwich when I want something quick but tasty that feels a little special. The best part for me is how the melted cheese wraps around the chicken and avocado, making it super easy and fun to eat. It’s one of those meals that’s simple but feels like you put in more effort, which is always a win in my book.
My favorite way to enjoy this melt is with a side of crispy chips or a light salad for a perfect lunch or dinner. It’s a crowd-pleaser too—whenever I make it, friends ask for the recipe right away. Trust me, once you try this melt, it’ll become a go-to when you want a tasty sandwich that’s a little different but totally comforting.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I like using white or whole wheat sandwich bread for this melt. If you want a crunchier texture, try sourdough or ciabatta. Gluten-free bread works well too if needed.
Avocado: Use a ripe avocado for creaminess and flavor. If avocados aren’t your thing, mashed hummus or cream cheese add a nice touch of moisture instead.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is perfect here, shredded or chopped. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for busy days, or use leftover grilled chicken.
Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice melt and color, but feel free to swap for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for some heat.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunchy Outside and Gooey Inside?
Balancing a crispy grilled bread with melty cheese and warm fillings can be tricky. Here’s what works best for me:
- Spread butter or mayo on the outside of the bread slices to achieve a golden, crunchy surface.
- Cook on medium heat to toast the bread evenly without burning.
- Press lightly with a spatula while cooking to help everything stick together.
- Be patient and flip carefully after 3-4 minutes, so both sides brown nicely and the cheese melts fully.
This slow and steady method helps you get that perfect grilled melt every time without soggy bread or cold fillings.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet or griddle – it cooks the sandwich evenly and helps the bread get crispy without sticking.
- Spatula – you’ll need this to flip the sandwich carefully and press it slightly for even toasting.
- Mixing bowl – perfect for mashing the avocado and mixing in seasonings quickly.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping chicken and spreading avocado smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey or ham for a different protein that still pairs well with cheese and avocado.
- Try pepper jack or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a milder or spicier melt.
- Add sliced tomatoes or cooked bacon for extra juiciness and crunch.
- Mix in a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce with the avocado for a spicy kick you’ll love.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Avocado Melt
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise or butter (for spreading on bread)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ teaspoon garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend just a few minutes mashing the avocado, assembling the sandwich, and a total of 6-8 minutes grilling it to golden, melty perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Avocado:
In a small bowl, mash the avocado using a fork until creamy. Add salt, pepper, and cilantro if you like, then mix everything together well.
2. Season the Chicken:
If you want extra flavor, toss the cooked chicken with a pinch of salt, pepper, and either garlic powder or smoked paprika.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
Preheat your skillet over medium heat. Spread mayonnaise or butter on one side of each bread slice—this will help the bread toast nicely. On the non-buttered side of one slice, layer half the cheddar cheese, then the chicken, then spread the mashed avocado on top. Add the rest of the cheese, then cover with the other slice of bread, buttered side out.
4. Cook the Melt:
Place the sandwich in the preheated skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully and cook the other side another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread toasted.
5. Serve:
Remove from the skillet and let the sandwich rest for a minute. Cut in half, garnish with extra chopped cilantro if you like, and enjoy warm!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Melt?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before using. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat dry to avoid extra moisture in the sandwich.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Swap out the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free or vegan cheese alternative. Also, use dairy-free margarine or olive oil instead of butter for spreading on the bread.
Can I Prepare This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
You can prep the avocado mash and chicken in advance, but it’s best to assemble and grill the sandwich right before eating so the bread stays crisp and the cheese melts perfectly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Wrap leftovers tightly and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to keep the bread crispy and cheese melty—avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.