Name: Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt (Panera Copycat!) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 flat loaves of focaccia bread (garlic herb recommended); 6 oz shredded rotisserie chicken; 1 avocado, sliced; 4 oz sliced gouda cheese; ¼ cup cilantro, chopped; ¼ cup Peppadew peppers, chopped (or sweet & hot cherry peppers); ¼ cup mayonnaise; 6 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped; 2 tablespoons water

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If you are craving a sandwich that combines smoky spice, creamy avocado, melty cheese, and tender chicken all packed into perfectly toasted bread, you will absolutely fall in love with this Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt (Panera Copycat!) Recipe. It’s a vibrant burst of flavor that captures the essence of the famous Panera melt but made in your own kitchen with fresh, wholesome ingredients and a quick, straightforward process. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or an easy dinner that feels special, this recipe hits the spot every time with its balance of spicy, creamy, and cheesy goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with six small white plates and one half avocado arranged neatly. In the top left, a white bowl holds shredded rotisserie chicken in light beige tones. Below it, a scalloped white plate displays several thin slices of light yellow gouda cheese. To the right of the chicken, a small off-white speckled bowl contains bright green chopped cilantro. Below and slightly right, a scalloped white plate holds five triangular pieces of golden-brown focaccia bread seasoned with herbs. Below the gouda, a small white bowl is filled with dark red sundried tomatoes. Next to it, another small white bowl contains shiny bright red peppadew peppers. Below these bowls, a small scoop of creamy white mayo is seen on a white plate. Finally, at the bottom right corner, a halved avocado with a green creamy interior and a brown seed is placed. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic in this Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt (Panera Copycat!) Recipe lies in the simplicity yet boldness of its ingredients. Each plays an essential role, from the soft but hearty focaccia bread to the spicy chipotle mayo, which brings a smoky kick that perfectly complements the mild avocado and tender chicken. The fresh cilantro and sweet peppers add pops of color and fresh flavor, while gouda creates that irresistible meltiness everyone loves.

Focaccia bread: Use flat loaves, ideally garlic herb, for a flavorful, crisp base that holds all the fillings beautifully.
Shredded rotisserie chicken: Tender and already cooked, it’s the perfect protein shortcut packed with savory taste.
Avocado slices: Creamy texture and mild flavor bring balance and a fresh richness to every bite.
Mayonnaise: Adds luscious creaminess and helps bind the chipotle peppers into a spicy spread.
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: Core ingredient for smoky heat and a subtle tangy sweetness.
Cilantro: Fresh and bright, it wakes up the sandwich with a lively herbaceous note.
Peppadew peppers (or sweet & hot cherry peppers): Introduce a sweet heat and vibrant color to brighten each sandwich.
Sliced gouda cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a nutty, creamy layer that rounds out the flavors.
Water: Used in cooking to steam the sandwich slightly for a perfect melt without burning.

How to Make Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt (Panera Copycat!) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chipotle Mayo

In a small mixing bowl, combine the chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with the mayonnaise. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended. This homemade chipotle mayo is what gives the melt its signature smoky, spicy flavor and creamy texture, so take a moment to taste and adjust if you want it with more heat.

Step 2: Slice the Focaccia Bread

Take your flat focaccia loaves and slice each into four square pieces. You should end up with eight pieces total—these will be the sandwich’s sturdy yet soft foundation. The garlic herb flavor of the bread complements the other ingredients wonderfully and adds a bit of aromatic depth.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread the chipotle mayo generously over each slice of bread. On half of the slices, layer on the gouda slices, avocado, shredded chicken, chopped cilantro, and Peppadew peppers. These ingredients combine to deliver layers of creamy, smoky, spicy, and fresh sensations in each bite. Top the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices that are already coated with mayo. You now have perfectly assembled, flavor-packed sandwiches ready for the skillet.

Step 4: Grill and Steam the Sandwiches

Heat a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip them gently with a spatula and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Then, tilt the pan and pour in 2 tablespoons of water, covering the skillet immediately to steam the sandwiches for 1 minute. This step melts the cheese beautifully without letting the bread burn. Once the water evaporates, your melts are ready to serve!

How to Serve Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt (Panera Copycat!) Recipe

A close-up view of a grilled sandwich cut in half, placed in a white bowl with a smooth inside surface. The sandwich has three visible layers: the top layer is a toasted, golden-brown crust with some darker grill marks and light seasoning; below it is a creamy white melted cheese layer mixed with shredded light beige chicken and green slices of avocado; the bottom layer is a soft toasted bread slice with a light golden-brown crust. There is some melted cheese and juices slightly spilling out from the sandwich onto the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and the lighting gives a warm and fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To enhance your sandwich presentation and flavor, sprinkle extra chopped cilantro on top or add a few slices of fresh avocado for an inviting look. A small wedge of lime on the side can also add a refreshing contrast if you like a citrusy twist to balance the spicy heat.

Side Dishes

This melt pairs perfectly with simple sides like crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or crunchy pickles to cut through the richness. For a cozy day, consider a bowl of tomato soup to dip your sandwich, making it feel delightfully comforting and restaurant-quality.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the sandwiches into triangles and serving as a party platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. You can also toast the bread slightly before adding the fillings for an extra crisp texture contrast. If you want to make it a wrap, try using large tortillas and grilling the filled wrap for a handheld version packed with the same fantastic flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but for best texture, eat them within that timeframe so the avocado stays fresh and the bread doesn’t get soggy.

Freezing

While these melts are best fresh, you can freeze the assembled but ungrilled sandwiches by wrapping them securely in freezer-safe wrap and placing them in a zip-top bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the bread is crisp again. Alternatively, use an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread chewy or soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! You can cook and shred your own chicken breasts or thighs. Just season and roast or poach them before shredding. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, but homemade cooked chicken works wonderfully too.

What if I don’t have Peppadew peppers?

If Peppadew peppers aren’t available, sweet and hot cherry peppers are a perfect substitute. They provide a similar sweet heat and vibrant color that balance the smoky chipotle and creamy avocado beautifully.

Is gouda the only cheese that works?

Gouda melts so well and has a lovely nutty flavor, but you can experiment with other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack, Havarti, or even a mild cheddar if you prefer. Just choose something that melts smoothly and won’t overpower the other flavors.

How spicy is this sandwich?

The chipotle peppers add a medium level of smoky heat, balanced by creamy mayo and avocado, so it’s not overly spicy but has a noticeable kick. You can adjust the quantity of chipotle peppers to make it milder or hotter according to your taste.

Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for grilled or roasted vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or portobello slices. The chipotle mayo and other ingredients still bring a ton of flavor that makes the sandwich satisfying without meat.

Final Thoughts

This Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt (Panera Copycat!) Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen table with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors, creamy textures, and a good melt. I encourage you to give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite sandwich to make again and again!