Are you ready to spice up your weeknight dinner with a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make? Say hello to our "Lightened Up Chipotle Chicken and Avocado Melts"! This mouthwatering Mexican-inspired recipe combines tender, shredded chicken with smoky chipotle flavors and creamy avocado, all piled high on toasty whole grain English muffins. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Trust us, once you take a bite, you'll be coming back for seconds—and thirds! Get ready to indulge in a guilt-free treat that’s bursting with flavor!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 avocado, mashed
- 4 whole grain English muffins, split
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If chicken is not already cooked, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear chicken until internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let cool slightly, then shred using two forks.
- Finely chop 1-2 chipotle peppers from the can, removing seeds for less heat if desired. Mix chopped peppers with shredded chicken, creating a spicy and smoky flavor profile.
- Mash the ripe avocado in a bowl, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Split the whole grain English muffins and lightly toast them until golden brown.
- Spread a generous layer of mashed avocado on each muffin half.
- Top the avocado with the chipotle-seasoned shredded chicken, distributing evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over each muffin half, covering the chicken completely.
- Place the prepared muffins on the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven, let cool for 2-3 minutes, then serve immediately while warm and cheese is gooey.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, cook the chicken in advance and shred it. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, making this recipe a quick weeknight meal.
- Customize the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, use fewer chipotle peppers or remove the seeds before chopping. This way, you can control the spice level to suit your taste.
- Perfectly Toasted Muffins: For an extra crunch, toast the English muffins until they're golden brown. This will help them hold up better against the toppings and add a delightful texture.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while mozzarella offers a milder, gooey melt.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair these melts with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A squeeze of lime juice over the top can also elevate the flavors!
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Consider topping your melts with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added freshness and creaminess.Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 143kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 13g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 35mg
