Smoky Buffalo Chicken Melt from Panera Bread features tender, smoky buffalo chicken layered with melted cheddar and smoked Gouda cheeses, served on toasted artisan bread, delivering a bold, spicy flavor with a satisfying, gooey texture.
Equipments
- Oven or grill press
- Sauté pan or skillet
- Cheese grater
- Bread knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Tongs
- Baking sheet
- Brush (for butter or oil)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) cooked chicken breast
- 1/3 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices smoked Gouda cheese
- 8 slices artisan bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Using cooked chicken breast ensures the smoky buffalo chicken melt has a tender texture, while the combination of sharp cheddar and smoked Gouda cheeses creates a rich, melted gooeyness essential to the sandwich. Buffalo sauce blended with smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powders intensifies the bold, spicy flavor profile you expect in this dish. Artisan bread toasted with butter and olive oil adds a satisfying crunch that balances the soft, flavorful filling. Fresh parsley can be added for a touch of brightness and color, enhancing presentation and taste. Your homemade Smoky Buffalo Chicken Melt from Panera Bread copycat menu will deliver an authentic, bold, and satisfying sandwich experience.
Instructions
- Preheat oven or grill press.
- Shred cooked chicken breast using a fork or by hand.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Grate cheeses if not pre-sliced.
- Lay out artisan bread slices on a cutting board.
- Layer cheddar and smoked Gouda cheese slices on half of the bread slices.
- Evenly distribute buffalo chicken mixture over the cheese.
- Top with remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
- Melt butter and mix with olive oil; brush mixture on the outer sides of each sandwich.
- Heat sauté pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Place sandwiches in pan; press gently with spatula or use grill press.
- Cook until golden brown on each side and cheese is melted (about 3–4 minutes per side).
- Optionally, finish melting cheese in oven on a baking sheet if needed.
- Remove sandwiches and cool briefly.
- Slice sandwiches with bread knife.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Smoky Buffalo Chicken Melt from Panera Bread copycat menu can be adapted by substituting smoked Gouda with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier melt. If you don't have buffalo sauce on hand, mix hot sauce with melted butter and a dash of smoked paprika to replicate the smoky heat. Using a grill press instead of an oven delivers crispy, evenly toasted bread and melted cheese in less time while maintaining the sandwich's gooey texture. You can replace artisan bread with ciabatta or sourdough for a similarly hearty bite. Be careful not to overcook the chicken when reheating to keep it tender and juicy.
Tips
To ensure your Smoky Buffalo Chicken Melt achieves the perfect gooey texture, shred the chicken finely so the buffalo sauce coats every piece evenly. Brush the butter and olive oil mixture liberally on the outer sides of the bread for a crispy, golden crust during cooking. Keep heat at medium to prevent burning while allowing the cheese to melt fully inside the sandwich. Use a sharp bread knife to slice through the sandwich cleanly, preserving its layered structure and avoiding mess.
Nutritions
The Smoky Buffalo Chicken Melt from Panera Bread provides a rich source of protein from the cooked chicken breast, essential for muscle repair and growth. Sharp cheddar and smoked Gouda cheeses add calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health, while the artisan bread offers carbohydrates for energy. Buffalo sauce and spices contribute minimal calories but enhance the flavor without significant nutritional impact. Your meal delivers a balanced combination of macronutrients, making it both satisfying and energizing.
Storage
Store your Smoky Buffalo Chicken Melt leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. When ready to eat, reheat the sandwich in a preheated oven at 350degF (175degC) for about 10 minutes or use a grill press to restore its crunchy texture and melted cheese consistency. Avoid microwaving as it may result in soggy bread and unevenly melted cheese.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap smoked Gouda for a milder mozzarella or pepper jack cheese to adjust the smoky intensity and add a different flavor profile. Instead of artisan bread, try using a sturdy sourdough or ciabatta loaf for extra crunch and structure. For a healthier option, grill the sandwich using a panini press instead of frying in butter and oil, which reduces fat content while still achieving a crispy exterior. Experiment with adding a thin layer of blue cheese dressing inside the sandwich to enhance the traditional Buffalo flavor.
Allergies
The Smoky Buffalo Chicken Melt contains common allergens like dairy from cheddar and smoked Gouda cheeses, as well as gluten present in the artisan bread. Your meal may also cause reactions if you are sensitive to chicken or spices like garlic and onion powder. It's important to check ingredient labels and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any food allergies.
Why this recipe?
The Smoky Buffalo Chicken Melt from Panera Bread is loved for its bold smoky flavor combined with tender chicken breast, melted cheese, and a spicy buffalo sauce that creates a perfect balance of heat and creaminess. Its crispy, toasted bread adds a satisfying crunch that enhances the overall texture and taste experience. Fans appreciate the fresh and high-quality ingredients that make this sandwich both flavorful and hearty. Trying your hand at making this copycat recipe lets you customize the spice level and enjoy the same delicious taste in the comfort of your own home.