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I've made so many trips to get Panera's popular chipotle chicken sandwich that I finally figured out how to make it at home. My take combines smoky chicken, soft avocado, and a spicy chipotle sauce all squished between crispy sourdough pieces. What's great? This version has no dairy, so everyone can dig in – and between us, it's tastier than what you'd get at the restaurant.
Authentic Taste Made Easy
Whenever I make this sandwich, guests are shocked it's homemade. The smoky chicken works so well with the sweet and tangy peppadew peppers, while the avocado adds that smooth, rich feel we crave. My homemade chipotle sauce pulls it all together, and since there's no dairy, everyone gets to enjoy these amazing flavors.
What You'll Need
Grab some quality sourdough bread – those chunky slices really matter. I typically use a cup of smoked chicken, but in a hurry, rotisserie chicken does the trick too. If you want cheese, Chao dairy-free slices work great, though it's still yummy without any. The peppadew peppers are must-haves for their sweet-spicy kick. Make sure you've got a nicely ripened avocado for that smooth texture. The chipotle sauce comes together quickly, and a bit of olive oil helps make the bread nice and golden.
Putting It Together
Start by making your spicy sauce – mix mayo with some adobo sauce, chopped garlic and a squeeze of lemon. Set out everything you need, then begin stacking. Put plenty of that tasty sauce on your bread, add the chicken, cheese if you want it, avocado, and those flattened peppers. Brush some olive oil on the bread's outside to help it turn golden in the pan. Cook each side for about two or three minutes till everything's warm and melty.
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Insider Tricks
Keep an eye on your heat level when toasting – you want the bread golden and crunchy, not charred. I always cut my avocado right before using so it stays fresh and doesn't brown. Flattening those peppadew peppers before adding them means you'll taste their flavor in every mouthful.
Easy Substitutions
Sometimes I just buy pre-made chipotle sauce when I'm rushed. Can't find smoked chicken? No problem – rotisserie chicken or even good deli slices work just fine. And don't worry about the cheese – it's completely optional since this sandwich packs so much flavor on its own.
Wrapping Up
Smoky chicken, fresh avocado, tangy peppers, and bold chipotle sauce all come together on toasted sourdough. A yummy Panera-inspired update!
Recipe FAQs
- → What else works instead of Peppadew peppers?
No Peppadews? Swap them for roasted red peppers or cherry peppers for a similar tangy-sweet vibe.
- → What helps the avocado stay fresh?
Cut the avocado when you're about to serve. A splash of lemon in the sauce also slows browning.
- → Can I prep the chipotle sauce early?
Totally! Seal it in the fridge, and it'll last about a week just fine.
- → What’s Chao creamy original exactly?
It's a plant-based cheese option. Feel free to grab regular cheese if you don't need dairy-free.
- → Is plain chicken okay to use here?
Yep! Roasted or grilled chicken works. Just remember, it won't have that smoky flavor.