Description
Panera-inspired chipotle chicken melt elevates sandwich craft with smoky, creamy layers of flavor. Melted cheese, spicy chipotle sauce, and fresh avocado create a quick lunch that satisfies serious sandwich cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 4 slices smoked gouda cheese
- 4 slices crispy bacon
Bread and Base:
- 2 ciabatta rolls
- 1 tablespoon butter
Toppings and Condiments:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup pickled red onions
- 2 tablespoons chipotle mayonnaise
Instructions
- Prepare griddle or skillet at medium heat, ensuring an even cooking surface around 350°F.
- Carefully slice ciabatta rolls horizontally, creating two symmetrical halves for maximum sandwich coverage.
- Apply a delicate layer of chipotle mayo across interior surfaces of bread, distributing evenly for consistent flavor.
- Construct sandwich layers strategically: first place smoked gouda cheese slices, then arrange shredded chicken for substantial protein coverage.
- Add crispy bacon strips across chicken layer, providing a smoky and crunchy texture element.
- Incorporate freshly sliced avocado and tangy pickled red onions, enhancing the sandwich’s complexity and visual appeal.
- Gently close sandwich, ensuring ingredients are tucked securely within bread boundaries.
- Position sandwich onto preheated cooking surface, applying gentle pressure with spatula to promote even browning.
- Cook approximately 3-4 minutes per side, monitoring bread color transformation to golden-brown and cheese melting progression.
- Once cheese melts completely and exterior achieves desired crispness, remove from heat.
- Slice diagonally, creating elegant presentation and easier consumption.
- Serve immediately while sandwich remains warm and ingredients maintain optimal temperature and texture.
Notes
- Bacon Crispiness Matters: Cook bacon until extra crispy to provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy avocado and melted cheese.
- Temperature Control: Keep heat at medium to prevent burning the bread while ensuring the cheese melts completely and the chicken warms through evenly.
- Avocado Protection: Add avocado slices last to prevent browning and maintain their fresh, vibrant green color and creamy texture.
- Customization Friendly: Swap smoked gouda for pepper jack for a spicier version or use turkey bacon for a lighter protein alternative that still delivers robust flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 860
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 1500 mg
- Fat: 52 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 30 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 64 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 46 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg