Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt (Panera Copycat)
The Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt (Panera Copycat) is a crave-worthy sandwich packed with smoky heat, creamy avocado, and melty Gouda cheese layered on herbaceous focaccia.
Perfectly balanced in flavor and texture, this homemade version is budget-friendly, fast to prepare, and deeply satisfying for any lunch or dinner craving.
Star Ingredients in This Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt
Garlic herb focaccia – This flat, flavor-packed bread adds a chewy, savory base that holds up to the rich fillings without getting soggy.
Shredded rotisserie chicken – Tender and juicy, it brings a quick protein punch that melds beautifully with the creamy and spicy elements.
Avocado – Buttery slices of ripe avocado add richness and a cool contrast to the bold chipotle.
Chipotle peppers in adobo – These smoky, spicy chilis give the mayo its signature kick, delivering that unmistakable Panera flavor.
Gouda cheese – Mild, melty, and slightly sweet, Gouda complements the spice with a creamy pull in every bite.
Peppadew peppers – These sweet and tangy peppers add a pop of acidity and brightness to balance the richness of the melt.
Fresh cilantro – A sprinkle of chopped cilantro provides an herbaceous lift that ties everything together.
How to Craft the Ultimate Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt
This sandwich comes together in layers—creamy chipotle mayo, shredded chicken, fresh avocado, gooey cheese, and tangy peppers—all pressed and gently steamed for that irresistible melty texture.
Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Tips for Sandwich Success
For extra flavor depth, stir a pinch of salt and a touch of minced garlic into the chipotle mayo. If making in advance, brushing avocado slices with lemon juice helps prevent browning. Use a heavy skillet or a panini press to get a beautifully crisp, golden crust on the bread while allowing the cheese to melt perfectly.
How to Store Leftovers of This Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt
While best enjoyed fresh, any leftover sandwiches can be wrapped in foil and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to re-crisp the bread and gently melt the cheese. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, ciabatta or sourdough make great alternatives if focaccia isn’t available.
Is there a substitute for Peppadew peppers?
Sweet and hot cherry peppers or roasted red peppers work well as substitutes.
What if I don’t eat cilantro?
You can omit it or swap it with fresh parsley for a milder herb flavor.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or a hearty plant-based protein.
Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt (Panera Copycat!)
Ingredients
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons water
- 6 oz shredded rotisserie chicken
- ¼ cup chopped Peppadew peppers or sweet & hot cherry peppers
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 4 oz gouda sliced
- 6 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 avocado sliced
- 2 garlic herb focaccia flat loaves
Instructions
- Blend the chipotle peppers in adobo with mayonnaise in a small bowl until smooth; set aside.
- Divide each focaccia loaf into four equal pieces, yielding a total of eight square slices.
- Generously coat one side of each bread slice with the chipotle mayo mixture.
- Layer four of the slices with gouda, avocado slices, shredded chicken, chopped cilantro, and Peppadew peppers.
- Cover each topped slice with a plain one to form complete sandwiches.
- Place the assembled sandwiches into a heated skillet over medium-high heat.
- Toast for 2–3 minutes on one side, then flip carefully and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Tilt the skillet slightly, pour in water, then cover and allow the sandwiches to steam for 1 minute until the water evaporates.
- Uncover, remove from heat, and serve hot.
Notes
Customize the chipotle mayo with a pinch of salt or minced garlic to enhance the flavor profile.
