Panera Bread is known for its wholesome and satisfying menu, and among its most popular offerings is the Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt. This toasted sandwich is made with smoked, pulled chicken, applewood-smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, avocado, and cilantro, all served on freshly baked artisan bread. The sandwich is then topped with chipotle mayo for an extra kick of flavor.
With such a mouthwatering combination of ingredients, it’s no wonder that the Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt has become a favorite among Panera Bread customers. But just what is in this delectable sandwich, and how does each ingredient contribute to its taste and texture? In this article, we’ll break down the recipe for the Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt so you can recreate it at home or simply better appreciate this popular menu item.
The Ingredients That Make Up Panera’s Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt
Panera’s Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is a fusion of unbeatable Mexican and American flavors that has become increasingly popular across various locations of the bakery-café chain. The sandwich consists of a freshly baked baguette that is toasted to perfection, succulent chicken breasts that are marinated in chipotle sauce, crispy bacon, and ripe avocado.
The ingredients that make up Panera’s Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt sandwich are blended together to create a harmonious and satisfying taste experience. The chicken is seasoned with chipotle and smoked paprika to give it a smoky and spicy flavor. The bacon is applewood smoked and crispy, adding a savory crunch to every bite. The avocado provides the sandwich with a creamy texture and a fresh and tangy taste. Altogether, these ingredients create a delectable taste that is sure to satisfy the taste buds of any hungry customer.
How the Sandwich is Made: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is a delicious and healthy sandwich that combines smoky and spicy flavors. But how exactly is this sandwich made? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you recreate it at home or simply satisfy your curiosity.
First, the bread is sliced and lightly toasted. Then, the chipotle chicken is grilled to perfection and cut into bite-sized pieces. Next, ripe Haas avocado is mashed and spread on the bread. The grilled chicken is then placed on top of the avocado spread, followed by a slice of smoked gouda cheese and diced red onions. Finally, the sandwich is closed and grilled to achieve a crispy texture and melty cheese. The finished product is a mouthwatering sandwich that will surely satisfy your cravings.
Nutritional Facts and Health Benefits of Panera’s Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt
Panera’s Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is a delectable sandwich made from succulent grilled chicken, ripe avocados, and smoky chipotle sauce, all wrapped in a freshly baked ciabatta roll. While the sandwich is undoubtedly flavorful and satisfying, it’s essential to consider its nutritional content and health benefits before consuming it regularly.
The sandwich packs a nutritional punch, offering 620 calories, 28g of fat, 54g of carbohydrates, and 41g of protein. The avocado adds heart-healthy fats, while the chicken offers ample protein to keep you full and satisfied for hours. The chipotle sauce, while delicious, is high in sodium, with 1280mg per serving. Overall, the sandwich can be a nutritious choice for a hearty meal when consumed in moderation, particularly for active individuals looking to fuel their workouts or those on a high-protein diet.
Comparison with Other Panera Sandwiches and Similar Options in the Market
When it comes to Panera’s menu offerings, the Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt stands out as a fan favorite. However, there are other sandwiches on the menu that are worth considering. For example, the Bacon Turkey Bravo Sandwich is another popular option that features oven-roasted turkey, smoked bacon, Gouda cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and signature sauce on a tomato basil bread.
On the other hand, there are similar options in the market that can compete with the Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt in terms of taste and nutrition. One example is the Subway Chipotle Southwest Steak & Cheese sandwich, which comes with tender steak, melted Monterey cheddar cheese, and veggies on a freshly baked sub roll. While both options are delicious, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and dietary restrictions to determine the best choice for each individual.
Customer Reviews and Feedback on Panera’s Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt
The customer reviews and feedback on Panera’s Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt have been mixed. Some customers loved the combination of flavors and textures in the sandwich, praising the creamy avocado and smoky chipotle sauce. Others found the sandwich to be bland and lacking depth.
Several customers noted that the sandwich was not as visually appealing as they had hoped, with some of the ingredients appearing smashed and unappetizing. However, many customers appreciated the generous portions of chicken and avocado, making the sandwich quite filling. Overall, while some customers had mixed feelings about the Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt, it seems to be a popular choice among those who want a delicious and filling sandwich with a bit of spicy flair.
Secret Toppings that Can Elevate Your Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Experience
Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is a sumptuous sandwich that packs a flavorful punch. While the classic ingredients of tender roasted chicken, creamy avocado, smoky chipotle sauce, and melted cheddar and fontina cheeses are enough to satiate your cravings, there are some secret toppings that can take your Panera experience to the next level.
One of the toppings that can elevate the taste of your sandwich is pickled red onions. These tangy and slightly sweet onions add a crunchy texture that compliments the richness of the chicken, avocado, and cheese. Another great addition is cilantro leaves, which add a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the sandwich. You can also add sliced jalapenos, which not only add heat but also a burst of flavor that cuts through the creaminess of the avocado and cheese. With these secret toppings, you can customize your Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt to your liking and make it even more delicious.
How to Make Your Own Homemade Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt using Panera’s Recipe
If you are a fan of Panera’s Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt and want to recreate it at home, you can do so by following their recipe. The ingredients required include sourdough bread, sliced chicken, melted cheddar cheese, fresh avocado, smoky chipotle mayo, cilantro, and red onion.
To make the sandwich, toast the sourdough bread and spread the chipotle mayo on one side. Layer the chicken, cheddar cheese, avocado, and red onions on top. Then, sprinkle some cilantro leaves and add the other slice of bread. Toast the sandwich in a pan until the cheese is melted, and the bread is crispy. Your homemade Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is ready to be enjoyed! By preparing this sandwich at home, you can customize it to your liking and enjoy it without stepping out of your house.
Final Words
The Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is a delicious and nutritious option for those on-the-go. It is made with high-quality ingredients like antibiotic-free chicken, melted cheddar cheese, applewood-smoked bacon, tomatoes, and creamy avocado spread. The sandwich is then topped with a smoky chipotle mayo that adds a kick of flavor.
Overall, the Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt is a tasty and wholesome option for anyone looking for a quick bite. Its unique combination of ingredients and bold flavors make it a popular choice among customers. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or a hearty dinner, this melt is sure to satisfy your hunger and taste buds. So next time you’re at Panera, give the Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt a try and see what all the fuss is about!