Save to Pinterest This hearty sandwich brings together tender shredded chicken, creamy ripe avocado, and melting provolone or Swiss cheese between slices of crusty sourdough. The secret lies in the zesty avocado spread—mashed with lemon juice, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard—that adds moisture and flavor to every bite. Grill until golden brown and perfectly crisp on the outside while the cheese melts into gooey goodness inside. Ready in just 25 minutes, these melts make for an incredibly satisfying lunch or dinner that feels indulgent yet comes together with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
The rain was coming down in sheets last Tuesday when I decided this sandwich needed to happen. Something about warm melted cheese and avocado felt like the perfect antidote to a gray afternoon. I ended up making them for dinner, and my roommate looked at me like I had just invented comfort food.
My sister came over unexpectedly that evening and we ended up eating them standing at the kitchen counter, watching the rain against the window. She asked for the recipe before she even finished her first half.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast: Leftover rotisserie chicken works beautifully here, just shred it with two forks
- 2 ripe avocados: They should give slightly when pressed but not feel mushy
- 4 slices provolone or Swiss cheese: Provolone melts into the most amazing gooey layer
- 8 slices sourdough or whole grain bread: Sourdough gets the crispest exterior when grilled
- 1 small tomato: Thinly sliced for a burst of freshness in each bite
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: This creates that creamy base for the avocado spread
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds just enough sharpness to cut through the rich ingredients
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Keeps the avocado bright and green
- Fresh cilantro or parsley: Optional but adds a nice pop of color and flavor
- Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Softened for spreading on the outside of the bread
Instructions
- Mix the spread:
- Mash one avocado with lemon juice, mayonnaise, mustard, salt and pepper until completely smooth
- Assemble the base:
- Spread the avocado mixture evenly on four bread slices
- Layer the goodness:
- Pile on shredded chicken, tomato slices, remaining avocado slices and cheese
- Close it up:
- Top with remaining bread slices and butter the outside of each sandwich
- Get your grill on:
- Cook in a hot skillet for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and melty
- Final touch:
- Slice diagonally and serve while the cheese is still stretching
Save to Pinterest These sandwiches have become my go to when friends drop by unexpectedly. There is something about the combination of warm chicken and cool avocado that makes everyone feel instantly at home.
Getting the Perfect Grill Marks
I learned that patience with the heat makes all the difference. Medium low heat gives the cheese time to melt completely before the bread burns.
Make Ahead Strategy
You can shred the chicken and mix the spread the night before. Just keep them separate and assemble right before grilling for the freshest result.
Serving Ideas
A simple green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Or try it with a cup of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort meal.
- Crispy bacon takes this to another level
- A few leaves of arugula add a peppery bite
- Serve with pickles for a bright acidic contrast
Save to Pinterest Hope this sandwich brings as much comfort to your kitchen as it has to mine.
Recipe Help & Support
- → What type of bread works best for this melt?
-
Sourdough or whole grain bread holds up beautifully to grilling and adds robust flavor. The sturdy texture prevents sogginess while creating that perfect golden crunch when buttered and grilled.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh?
-
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Simply shred about 2 cups from a store-bought rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut without sacrificing flavor.
- → How do I know when the sandwiches are done grilling?
-
The bread should turn golden brown with slightly darker grill marks, and you should see the cheese melting out the sides. Press gently with your spatula—if it feels crispy and the cheese is oozing, it's ready to flip or serve.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
-
These melts are best enjoyed fresh off the griddle for that perfectly crispy texture. However, you can prep the avocado spread and shred the chicken up to a day ahead, then assemble and grill when ready to eat.
- → What cheese varieties work well in this sandwich?
-
Provolone and Swiss both melt beautifully and complement the other flavors. Cheddar offers a sharper bite, while mozzarella creates that irresistible cheese pull. Feel free to experiment with your favorites.
- → Is there a way to make this lighter?
-
Try swapping mayonnaise for Greek yogurt in the avocado spread, use less butter on the bread, or choose reduced-fat cheese. The sandwich remains satisfying while cutting back on calories.
