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After countless trips to Panera for their famous chipotle chicken sandwich I finally cracked the code in my own kitchen. My version brings together smoky chicken tender avocado and a zingy chipotle sauce all pressed between golden sourdough. The best part? This dairy free version means everyone at my table can enjoy it and honestly it tastes even better than the original.
Restaurant Flavor Made Simple
Every time I serve this sandwich people can't believe it came from my kitchen. The smoky chicken pairs perfectly with those sweet tangy peppadew peppers while creamy avocado adds that rich buttery texture we all love. My homemade chipotle mayo ties everything together and since it's dairy free nobody has to miss out on this amazing combination.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Start with good sourdough bread those thick slices make all the difference. I usually grab a cup of smoked chicken breast but rotisserie chicken works great too in a pinch. For cheese lovers I use Chao dairy free slices but the sandwich is just as delicious without. Don't skip the peppadew peppers they add this amazing sweet spicy pop. A perfectly ripe avocado brings that creamy texture we're looking for. The chipotle sauce is super easy to whip up and a little olive oil helps create that golden crust.
Building Your Sandwich
First whip up that amazing chipotle sauce mix mayo with some adobo sauce minced garlic and a splash of lemon juice. Get all your ingredients lined up then start layering. Spread that zesty sauce generously on your bread add your chicken cheese if using avocado and those flattened peppers. A brush of olive oil on the outside of the bread helps it turn perfectly golden in the pan. Two or three minutes per side and you've got melty sandwich perfection.
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My Secret Tips
Watch your heat when toasting you want that bread golden and crispy not burnt. I always slice my avocado last to keep it fresh and bright green. Pressing down those peppadew peppers before adding them means you get their amazing flavor in every single bite.
Quick Swaps When Needed
Some days I grab store bought chipotle sauce when I'm short on time. If you can't find smoked chicken rotisserie chicken or even good quality deli slices work beautifully. And remember the cheese is totally optional this sandwich has so much flavor it stands perfectly well without it.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What can I substitute for Peppadew peppers?
If you can't find Peppadew peppers, you can use roasted red peppers or cherry peppers for a similar sweet and tangy flavor.
- → How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
Slice the avocado just before assembling the sandwich. The lemon in the sauce will also help prevent browning.
- → Can I make the chipotle sauce ahead?
Yes, the chipotle sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- → What is Chao creamy original?
Chao creamy original is a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can substitute with regular cheese if you don't need the sandwich to be dairy-free.
- → Can I use regular chicken instead of smoked?
Yes, you can use any cooked chicken breast. Grilled or roasted chicken will work well, though it won't have the same smoky flavor.
Conclusion
This homemade version of Panera's sandwich combines smoked chicken, fresh avocado, and peppadew peppers with a zesty chipotle sauce, all grilled on sourdough bread.