Panera Bread Chipotle Chicken Avocado Sandwich Recipe

This Panera Bread Chipotle Chicken Avocado Sandwich Recipe is inspired by the bold, smoky flavors of the cafe’s most popular melt. It is a zesty and creamy recipe, which calls for chipotle aioli and fresh cilantro. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 15 minutes.

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Panera Bread Chipotle Chicken Avocado Sandwich Recipe Ingredients

• 2 thick slices Black Pepper Focaccia (or sourdough bread)
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or pulled
• 2 slices Smoked Gouda cheese
• 1/2 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1 tablespoon Peppadew peppers (or sweet piquante peppers), chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter, softened (for toasting)

For the Chipotle Aioli:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

How To Make Panera Bread Chipotle Chicken Avocado Sandwiches

1. Whisk the chipotle aioli: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced chipotle peppers, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder. Stir vigorously until the sauce is a smooth, vibrant orange color. The honey is the secret ingredient here; it cuts through the smokiness of the peppers to create that signature Panera “sweet and heat” balance.
2. Prep the chicken and peppers: Take your shredded chicken and toss it with a tablespoon of the chipotle aioli. This ensures the meat is moist and flavorful throughout. Finely chop the Peppadew peppers; these add a unique sweet-vinegary pop that is essential for an authentic copycat taste.
3. Assemble the layers: Spread a generous layer of the chipotle aioli on the inside of both slices of focaccia. Place the smoked Gouda on one slice, then top with the saucy shredded chicken and the chopped peppers. Lay the fresh avocado slices on top of the chicken.
4. Toast to a golden brown: Heat a skillet or panini press over medium heat. Lightly butter the outside of the bread slices. Place the sandwich in the pan and grill for 3–4 minutes per side. You want the bread to be crispy and golden, and the smoked Gouda to be perfectly melted and gooey.
5. The fresh finish: Carefully open the warm sandwich and sprinkle the fresh cilantro over the avocado. Adding the cilantro after grilling ensures the herb stays bright and flavorful rather than wilting from the heat.
6. Slice and serve: Press the sandwich back together and slice it diagonally. Serve it immediately while the bread is crunchy and the cheese is still warm.

Recipe Tips

• How to get the best cheese melt: Use room-temperature Gouda. If the cheese is straight from the fridge, it might take longer to melt, which could result in the bread burning before the center is warm.
• Why Peppadew peppers are important: These small, sweet peppers are a Panera staple. If you can’t find them at the deli counter, you can substitute them with roasted red peppers and a splash of red wine vinegar.
• Can I use a different bread: While black pepper focaccia is the classic choice, a thick-cut sourdough or a ciabatta roll works beautifully to hold the heavy fillings.
• How to keep the avocado green: Squeeze a little extra lime juice over the avocado slices before placing them in the sandwich. This prevents them from browning if you aren’t eating the sandwich immediately.

What To Serve With Panera Bread Chipotle Chicken Avocado Sandwiches?

This Panera Bread Chipotle Chicken Avocado Sandwich Recipe is a zesty, creamy main dish that needs a crunchy or savory pairing! A bowl of Panera-style Creamy Tomato Soup is the quintessential choice for a classic “Pick Two” lunch at home. For a balanced meal, a side of Kettle Cooked Potato Chips or a crisp Caesar Salad adds a lovely texture that pairs perfectly with the soft focaccia! A cup of Broccoli Cheddar Soup or a serving of Fresh Fruit Salad pairs wonderfully with the smoky and spicy notes of the chipotle sauce.

How To Store Panera Bread Chipotle Chicken Avocado Sandwiches

• Refrigerate: These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store the prepped ingredients (shredded chicken, sauce, and chopped peppers) in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Avoid Soggy Bread: Do not assemble the sandwich until you are ready to grill it. Storing a fully assembled sandwich will cause the bread to absorb moisture from the sauce and avocado.
• Avocado Note: Because fresh avocado browns quickly, it is best to slice it right before serving.

Panera Bread Chipotle Chicken Avocado Sandwich Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 540
• Total Fat: 32g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 980mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 36g
• Dietary Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 28g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

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