A Chicken Melt Sandwich is the perfect balance of juicy chicken, melted cheese, and crisp, golden bread. It’s a comforting and filling option that works just as well for a quick lunch as it does for an easy dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is simple, fast, and made with everyday ingredients. It delivers big flavor without complicated steps, making it ideal for busy days. The combination of tender chicken and gooey cheese creates a satisfying meal that can easily be customized to your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 300 g total)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the sandwich:
4 slices sandwich bread
120 g sliced mozzarella or cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
1 small tomato, thinly sliced (optional)
Directions
Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to make thinner pieces for even cooking.
Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until fully cooked and lightly golden.
Remove the chicken from the pan, rest for 2 minutes, then slice thinly.
In the same skillet, cook the onion slices for 2–3 minutes until softened, if using.
Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. Spread mayonnaise on the other side.
Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet over medium-low heat.
Layer cheese, sliced chicken, onion, tomato, and another layer of cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until the bread is golden and the cheese is fully melted.
Remove from heat, slice, and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 sandwiches.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
You can add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor. Swap the cheese for Swiss or provolone for a different taste. For added heat, sprinkle a little chili powder into the chicken seasoning.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover sandwiches in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, wrapped tightly. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving to keep the bread from becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Yes, grilled or roasted chicken works well and saves time.
What type of bread is best?
Sandwich bread, sourdough, or whole wheat bread all work nicely.
Can I make this without butter?
Yes, you can use olive oil or mayonnaise on the outside for browning.
Is this sandwich kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and appealing to most kids.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, onions, tomatoes, mushrooms, and leafy greens are all good options.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should be fully white inside with clear juices.
Can I use a panini press?
Yes, a panini press works very well for this sandwich.
What cheese melts the best?
Mozzarella, cheddar, Swiss, and provolone melt smoothly.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook and slice the chicken up to one day in advance.
Is this sandwich best served fresh?
Yes, it tastes best when hot and freshly made.
Conclusion
The Chicken Melt Sandwich is an easy, comforting recipe that delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. With juicy chicken, melted cheese, and crispy bread, it’s a dependable meal you’ll want to make again and again.
A warm, satisfying sandwich packed with juicy chicken, gooey melted cheese, and crispy golden bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or an easy dinner.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 300 g total)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
4 slices sandwich bread
120 g sliced mozzarella or cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
1 small tomato, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions
Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner pieces for quicker, even cooking.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and lightly golden. Remove from pan and let rest for 2 minutes, then slice thinly.
If using, cook onion slices in the same skillet for 2–3 minutes until softened. Set aside.
Spread butter on one side of each bread slice and mayonnaise on the other side.
Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, into the skillet over medium-low heat.
Layer cheese, sliced chicken, optional onion and tomato, and another layer of cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
Cook each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Remove from heat, slice, and serve warm.
Notes
Use leftover chicken for a quicker version.
Swap mozzarella or cheddar with Swiss or provolone for variety.
Use mayonnaise or olive oil instead of butter for grilling if preferred.
Best served fresh but can be stored and reheated in a skillet.
Add chili powder to the chicken for a spicier version.
