Name: Copycat Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 flat loaves of foccacia bread (garlic herb); 6 oz shredded rotisserie chicken; 1 avocado, sliced; ¼ cup mayo; 6 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce; ¼ cup cilantro, chopped; ¼ cup Peppadew peppers, chopped (or sweet & hot cherry peppers); 4 oz sliced gouda; 2 tablespoon water

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make sandwich recipe? Look no further than this Copycat Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt! Packed with flavorful ingredients and simple to put together, this dish has become a staple in my kitchen for weeknight dinners and casual gatherings with friends. The combination of spicy chipotle peppers, creamy avocado, and gooey gouda cheese makes every bite a delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Bursting with bold flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Quick and convenient to prepare, perfect for busy days or meal prepping.
Versatile and customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients for a personal touch.

Ingredient Notes:

Flat loaves of focaccia bread (I used garlic herb)
Shredded rotisserie chicken
Avocado, sliced
¼ cup mayo
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
¼ cup cilantro, chopped
¼ cup Peppadew peppers, chopped (or sweet & hot cherry peppers)
Sliced gouda
Tablespoon water

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F.
In a small bowl, mix together mayo and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
Cut the focaccia bread in half and spread the chipotle mayo mixture on both sides.
Layer shredded chicken, avocado slices, cilantro, Peppadew peppers, and gouda cheese on one side of the bread.
Top with the other half of the bread and brush the top with water.
Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
Slice and serve hot.

Helpful Tips:

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables.
Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chipotle peppers.
Use a panini press for a perfectly toasted sandwich.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Toast the bread before assembling the sandwich for added crunch.
Let the sandwich rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or a refreshing iced tea for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or oven to maintain the crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can use grilled or baked chicken in this recipe.

Are Peppadew peppers spicy?

Peppadew peppers have a mild sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of heat.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

You can assemble the sandwich ahead of time and bake it just before serving.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, in place of gouda.

Conclusion:

Elevate your sandwich game with this Copycat Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner option or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this flavorful and satisfying sandwich is sure to impress. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!