Make this irresistible chicken cheese melt recipe with 1) juicy chicken, 2) creamy white sauce, and 3) gooey melted cheese—quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Chicken cheese melt is a delicious, cheesy comfort dish made with juicy chicken fillets topped with creamy sauce and melted cheese. It’s quick, filling, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Chicken Cheese Melt Recipe at a Glance
This chicken cheese melt recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. It takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, using shredded chicken, melty cheese, and buttery bread grilled to a golden brown crust. Perfect for lunch or a simple weeknight dinner, this cheesy chicken melt satisfies every craving with minimal effort.
Ingredients – What You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes / Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 2–4 pieces | Boneless, skinless |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Flavor |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | Adds mild spice |
| Olive oil / butter | 2 tbsp | For pan-searing |
| White sauce (béchamel) | 1 cup | Creamy base |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup (shredded) | For melting on top |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup (shredded) | Gives stretchiness |
| Fresh parsley | For garnish | Optional |
Equipment You’ll Need
You don’t need fancy gadgets to make this chicken cheese melt recipe—just a few basics.
A nonstick skillet or griddle works best for even browning, while a sturdy spatula helps you flip the sandwich without breaking it.
Use a cheese grater to freshly shred cheese for better melting. A small mixing bowl is handy for combining seasonings or chicken. If you have a panini press, it’s optional but perfect for creating an evenly crisp, golden crust with melty cheese inside
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making this chicken cheese melt recipe is simple, but following each step carefully ensures you get juicy chicken, perfectly melted cheese, and a crisp golden crust.
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start with cooked chicken—rotisserie or leftover chicken works great. Shred or finely slice about 1 to 1½ cups so it heats quickly and stays juicy.
Freshly grate your cheese for the smoothest melt; sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack all work well. Lightly season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
Preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat so it’s hot and ready when you start cooking. Spread a thin layer of butter or mayo on one side of each bread slice for a golden brown crust.
Step 2: Assemble the Melt
Spread a thin layer of sauce or mayo on the inside if you like extra richness. Layer shredded chicken evenly across the slice, then top it generously with grated cheese.
Add optional toppings like thin tomato slices, caramelized onions, or crispy bacon if desired. Set the second slice of bread on top with the buttered side facing upward.
For an open-faced version, simply build everything on one slice and leave the top off.
Step 3: Cook Until Golden and Gooey
Transfer your assembled sandwich to the hot skillet. Cook on medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula until the bread is golden brown and the cheese melts completely.
If the bread browns too fast, lower the heat so the inside heats evenly without burning the outside. For open-faced melts, cook the bottom first, then place under a broiler for 1–2 minutes to fully melt the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread, sautéed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- Drizzle extra white sauce on the plate for an elegant presentation and added flavor.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400–450 kcal |
| Protein | 35–40 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6–10 g |
| Fats | 25–28 g |
| Calcium (from cheese) | High |
Benefits: Rich in protein for muscle repair, calcium for strong bones, and energy-dense for active lifestyles.
Tips for Best Results
- Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for flavor and stretch.
- Don’t overcook chicken—keep it juicy.
- Add chili flakes if you like it spicy.
- Use leftover grilled chicken to save time.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs?
A: Yes, boneless thighs work well.
Q2: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes, assemble and bake when ready.
Q3: Which cheese is best?
A: Cheddar + mozzarella for flavor and melt.
Q4: Is it freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, freeze before baking.
Q5: Can I add veggies?
A: Yes, bell peppers or mushrooms taste great.
Q6: How to know chicken is done?
A: It should reach 165°F (74°C) internally.
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨
