Meet your new go-to comfort meal: the Chicken and Avocado Panini Recipe. This sandwich takes everything wonderful about a satisfying lunch and layers it between toasty, golden bread. Creamy avocado melts into gooey provolone, savory chicken, and a punchy spread, all pressed until warm and irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a hungry household or just craving something extra special for your solo lunch break, this panini will earn a regular spot on your menu.

Chicken and Avocado Panini Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chicken and Avocado Panini Recipe is how it transforms a few simple, everyday ingredients into a sandwich that tastes way fancier than the effort it takes to make. Every item brings something important to the table—whether that’s flavor, meltiness, crunch, or pure comfort.

Cooked chicken breast (2 cups, shredded or sliced): The base of our panini, providing a satisfying, lean protein that soaks up all the flavors.
Ripe avocado (1, sliced): Avocado adds a creamy texture and buttery finish that pairs perfectly with warm, savory chicken.
Provolone or mozzarella cheese (4 slices): Silky, melty cheese is essential for any panini—use your favorite for maximum ooze.
Sourdough or ciabatta bread (4 slices): Choose sturdy bread that grills up crisp on the outside while staying chewy in the middle.
Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Lends richness and helps create a luscious spread as the sandwich cooks.
Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): A hint of tang and sophistication that cuts through the richness and balances flavors.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): For a subtle background warmth that brings it all together.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for highlighting all the fresh, simple ingredients.
Olive oil or softened butter (1 tablespoon): Brushed on the outside of the bread to guarantee that golden, crunchy crust.

How to Make Chicken and Avocado Panini Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Spread

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and a bit of black pepper. Give it a good stir until smooth. This flavorful spread not only keeps the sandwich moist but adds a perfect zingy backdrop for the chicken and avocado to shine.

Step 2: Prep the Bread

Lay out your bread slices on the counter. Evenly spread the mayo-mustard mixture on one side of each slice. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor and helps keep the sandwich from drying out when it’s grilled.

Step 3: Layer Away

On two of your prepared bread slices, layer a slice of cheese, followed by an even portion of shredded or sliced chicken, then a generous layer of creamy avocado slices. Finish with another slice of cheese on top, then close the sandwiches with the remaining bread, spread side in for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Brush and Grill

Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil or softened butter—this is what gives you that deep golden, crisp crust. Preheat your panini press or a sturdy skillet to medium heat; if you’re using a skillet, press the sandwich down firmly with a heavy pan or spatula. Grill each side for 3 to 4 minutes (or press for 4 to 5 minutes) until the bread is toasted and the cheese is gooey and just melted.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once your panini is perfectly golden and the cheese is invitingly melty, transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for just a moment before slicing in half. Serve warm and let everyone marvel at those gorgeous layers inside!

How to Serve Chicken and Avocado Panini Recipe

Garnishes

Try sprinkling a little flaky sea salt over the avocado right before grilling, or give the finished panini a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. A handful of microgreens or fresh basil leaves makes for a beautiful touch and a splash of color if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

Pair your Chicken and Avocado Panini Recipe with a light side salad—think crisp greens dressed simply with olive oil and lemon, or maybe a tangy coleslaw. Homemade sweet potato fries or a mug of tomato basil soup make for a more indulgent meal if you’re really leaning into comfort food.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your paninis into triangles or thin strips for a stylish platter at brunches or parties. Serve alongside skewers of pickled vegetables, or offer small bowls of herbed mayonnaise for dipping. You can even make mini versions with slider rolls for an adorable twist on the classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover panini, wrap each sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. The flavors meld and stay delicious for up to two days; just avoid leaving them too long to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

While avocado doesn’t always freeze perfectly, you can assemble the paninis without avocado, freeze them for up to one month, and simply add fresh avocado right before reheating. Wrap the sandwiches tightly in foil to protect against freezer burn for best results.

Reheating

For that just-grilled taste, pop your leftover panini in a hot skillet or panini press and warm it until crispy and heated through. The microwave works in a pinch, though you might lose a bit of the crust—you can always finish it off in the oven for a few minutes to bring back the crunch.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this Chicken and Avocado Panini Recipe?

Absolutely, rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even faster and adds a bit more flavor. Just shred or slice it up and you’re good to go—no need to cook the chicken from scratch.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the spread?

If you’re not a fan of mayo, Greek yogurt works beautifully, giving you that creamy texture with a slight tang. You can also try mashed avocado or even hummus for a different twist.

Can I make this Chicken and Avocado Panini Recipe without a panini press?

No panini press? No problem! Use a heavy skillet to press the sandwiches down while cooking in a frying pan. Just flip halfway through and press again for that signature crispy exterior.

What bread works best?

Sturdy, rustic breads like sourdough or ciabatta hold up best to grilling and don’t get soggy. Avoid thin sandwich breads, which can fall apart or get too soft.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

The Chicken and Avocado Panini Recipe can be partially prepped in advance—mix the spread and prepare the chicken ahead, but assemble and grill right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a lunch or dinner that feels both totally satisfying and a little bit special, you will absolutely love making (and eating!) this Chicken and Avocado Panini Recipe. The flavors are uncomplicated but unforgettable, and I promise it will become a go-to in your weekly recipe rotation. Give it a try and take your sandwich game up a delicious notch!

Chicken and Avocado Panini Recipe

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4.7 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a delightful Chicken and Avocado Panini that perfectly combines tender chicken, creamy avocado, and gooey cheese, all grilled to perfection in a crispy sourdough crust. This easy lunch recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Panini:

2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or sliced)
1 ripe avocado (sliced)
4 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
4 slices sourdough or ciabatta bread
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil or softened butter (for grilling)

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Instructions

Prepare the Mayo Mixture: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Panini: Spread the mayo mixture on one side of each bread slice. Layer cheese, chicken, and avocado on two slices, then top with the remaining bread, mayo side in.
Grill the Panini: Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil or butter. Cook in a panini press or skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cheese melts.
Serve: Slice and enjoy warm.