Name: Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup shredded cooked chicken; 4 tablespoons chipotle adobo sauce; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon vinegar; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (low-fat), divided; 1/2 cup mashed avocado (fresh, from one large avocado); 4 slices sourdough bread; 4-5 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil) for cooking

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 244 reviews

If you are searching for a dish that combines smoky heat, creamy richness, and melty cheese with the satisfying crunch of perfectly toasted bread, this Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s a delightful twist on a classic melt, featuring shredded chicken mixed with spicy chipotle adobo, sweet honey, and tangy vinegar, all layered with fresh avocado and sharp cheddar cheese between slices of tangy sourdough bread. Ready in just 20 minutes and packed with bold flavors and comforting textures, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat that feels special without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl with three clear layers inside. The bottom layer is a thick, dark reddish-brown sauce covering the entire base of the bowl. On top of this sauce, there are two side-by-side layers: bright yellow shredded cheddar cheese on the left side and white shredded cooked chicken on the right side, both spread evenly and filling the bowl halfway. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a small piece of bread to the left and two glass bottles filled with clear and golden liquid at the top right, along with a striped cloth napkin nearby. The lighting is bright and natural, highlighting the colors and textures clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role: the chipotle adobo brings smoky heat, the avocado offers creamy contrast, and the cheddar cheese provides the gooey, melty magic that pulls everything together.

Shredded cooked chicken (1 cup): A tender, protein-packed base that soaks up all the delicious flavors easily.
Chipotle adobo sauce (4 tablespoons): Adds smoky heat and depth, making this melt uniquely irresistible.
Ketchup (2 tablespoons): Brings sweetness and a touch of acidity balancing the smoky spice.
Honey (1 tablespoon): Adds a natural sweetness that mellows the chipotle’s kick perfectly.
Vinegar (1 teaspoon): Provides a tangy brightness that keeps the flavor profile fresh.
Shredded cheddar cheese, low-fat (1 cup): Melts beautifully, offering that classic gooey texture essential for any great melt.
Mashed avocado (1/2 cup): Creamy and lush, it creates a wonderful cool contrast to the spice and cheese.
Sourdough bread (4 slices): Its firm texture and tang make it the perfect vehicle for this filling.
Mayonnaise (4-5 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps create a golden, crispy crust on the bread outside.
Olive oil or avocado oil (1 tablespoon): Used to cook the sandwich evenly and toasty without drying out the bread.

How to Make Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Together the Sauce

Start by combining the chipotle adobo sauce, ketchup, honey, and vinegar in a medium bowl. This blend creates the signature smoky, sweet, and tangy base that will infuse the chicken with all those crave-worthy flavors.

Step 2: Mix in Chicken and Cheese

Add the shredded cooked chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Stir everything together thoroughly so every bite bursts with cheesy, smoky, and slightly sweet goodness.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread

Spread mayonnaise on one side of each sourdough slice and place them mayo-side down on your workspace. Then spread mashed avocado on the other side of each slice. This layering ensures your sandwich gets that irresistible crunch on the outside and creamy texture inside.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

Divide the chicken and cheese mixture evenly between two slices of the avocado-topped bread. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the filling, then top with the other two slices of bread, mayo-side facing up to get that perfect golden crust when cooked.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

Heat your non-stick pan over low heat and drizzle the olive oil in. Carefully place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want a deep golden crust with the cheese inside fully melted and oozing. Patience here rewards you with that perfect melt every time.

Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Once cooked, transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board, slice in half if desired, and serve immediately while everything is luscious and melty. This step is the moment to savor all those harmonious layers coming together beautifully.

How to Serve Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe

Two open slices of bread on a white marbled surface, each with multiple layers. One slice has a smooth, light green avocado spread topped with a layer of bright orange shredded cheese. The other slice has the same avocado base, covered with shredded chicken mixed in a shiny, reddish-brown barbecue sauce, sprinkled with more shredded cheese. Both slices rest on a wooden board, with a blurred background showing small clear bottles and a light gray cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and add some extra flavor dimensions, consider garnishing your Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe with a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or a few thinly sliced red onions. A small dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lime brightens the dish further and complements the chipotle’s smoky kick.

Side Dishes

This melt pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides to balance its richness. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, crunchy vegetable sticks with a yogurt dip, or even a handful of tortilla chips with salsa make excellent companions. For cooler days, a bowl of tomato soup adds comforting warmth.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the melt into smaller triangles and turning it into a shareable appetizer at your next gathering. Or serve stacked open-faced melts on toasted sourdough rounds for an elegant twist. Wrapping the sandwich in parchment paper and serving it picnic-style can be a fun, casual way to enjoy it outdoors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container before refrigerating. They will keep well for up to 2 days, retaining much of their delightful melted cheesy flavor when reheated properly.

Freezing

This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh to maintain maximum texture and flavor, but you can freeze assembled but uncooked sandwiches. Wrap each sandwich securely in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Reheating

To reheat, pop your sandwich in a skillet over medium-low heat, covering it with a lid so the cheese melts evenly without drying out the bread. Alternatively, use a toaster oven for a crispier crust. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the bread from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I use different cheese for the Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic here, feel free to try Monterey Jack, pepper jack for extra spice, or even a smoky gouda. Just pick cheeses that melt well to keep that signature gooey texture.

Is this recipe spicy? How can I adjust the heat level?

The chipotle adobo sauce provides a medium smoky heat that’s balanced by the honey and avocado. For milder taste, reduce chipotle sauce or add extra avocado. For more heat, add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

To make a vegetarian version, swap chicken for grilled mushrooms or roasted vegetables. For vegan, use plant-based chicken substitutes, vegan mayonnaise, and dairy-free cheese alternatives, plus mashed avocado as usual.

What type of bread works best for this melt?

Sourdough is ideal because its tangy flavor and firm texture hold up well during grilling. However, you can use whole grain, rye, or a sturdy artisan loaf if you prefer.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes! You can mix the chicken with the chipotle sauce and cheese up to a day before assembling. Keep it refrigerated and assemble the sandwiches just before cooking to keep the bread fresh.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe. It delivers on flavor, texture, and convenience, all wrapped up in one satisfyingly melty package. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a loved one, this recipe brings warmth and excitement to the dinner table. Give it a try soon—you’ll be hooked just like I am.