Low-Carb Skillet Guacamole Chicken Melts

Guacamole Chicken Melts are an absolute game-changer for anyone craving a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal. This incredibly satisfying dish delivers on all fronts, offering almost instant gratification as it’s typically ready in just 20 minutes. Designed with health-conscious diners in mind, this recipe is wonderfully low-carb and requires only one pan for cooking, making cleanup a breeze. If you’re a devoted fan of fresh guacamole, prepare for this to become your new favorite dinner!

I am perpetually on the hunt for innovative and delicious ways to incorporate guacamole into meals. While it’s a fantastic dip or topping, transforming it into the star of a main course elevates its status entirely. With these Guacamole Chicken Melts, you can literally enjoy the creamy, vibrant flavors of guacamole as your dinner, creating a truly unique and satisfying experience.

Imagine tender, juicy chicken cutlets, perfectly seared, then crowned with a rich, pillowy layer of homemade (or store-bought) guacamole. This delightful combination is then blanketed with a generous helping of melty cheese, creating an irresistible texture and flavor profile that’s hard to beat. The beauty of this dish is its universal appeal; we rarely have any leftovers, ensuring the guacamole stays fresh and vibrant, not a worry about it browning!

The cooking process for these melts is remarkably similar to our popular Chicken Bruschetta recipe, highlighting the versatility of a single-skillet cooking method. We simply swapped out the traditional tomato bruschetta topping for a chunky, fresh mixture of avocado, ripe tomatoes, and zesty onions. A sprinkle of your favorite cheese finishes it off, of course. It’s the same simple stovetop technique, but with a completely different flavor profile that yields an equally amazing result, bursting with the fresh, vibrant tastes of the Southwest.

Keeping thin chicken cutlets in your freezer is a brilliant meal prep hack. If frozen in a single, thin layer, they defrost rapidly, meaning you are never more than a few minutes away from whipping up a healthy and delicious 30-minute meal like these Guacamole Chicken Melts. This convenience makes them perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence but you still want a wholesome, home-cooked dinner.

Why Guacamole Chicken Melts Are a Must-Try

Beyond their incredible speed and ease of preparation, Guacamole Chicken Melts offer a compelling combination of flavor, health benefits, and minimal fuss. Here’s why this recipe should earn a permanent spot in your weekly rotation:

• Unforgettable Flavor Combination: The richness of the avocado, the freshness of tomatoes and onions, and the savory kick of melted cheese perfectly complement the lean chicken. It’s a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Healthy & Low-Carb: For those monitoring carbohydrate intake, this dish is a dream come true. Packed with lean protein from the chicken and healthy fats, fiber, and nutrients from the avocado, it keeps you feeling full and satisfied without weighing you down.
• One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to mountains of dishes! Everything, from cooking the chicken to melting the cheese, happens in a single skillet. This means less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your delicious meal.
• Quick & Easy: From start to finish, you’re looking at about 20 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, last-minute dinners, or whenever you need a delicious meal in a hurry.
• Versatile & Customizable: While the core recipe is fantastic, it’s also highly adaptable. You can adjust the spices, choose different cheeses, or even add extra vegetables to suit your preference.

Ingredients and Substitutions: Your Pantry Essentials

Crafting these delectable Guacamole Chicken Melts is surprisingly simple, requiring only a handful of fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some smart substitutions to fit your taste and what you have on hand:

• Chicken Fillets or Cutlets: The star of our dish! Using thin-sliced chicken breasts or cutlets is key to this recipe’s quick cooking time. Their uniform thinness ensures they cook through evenly and rapidly in a skillet. You can purchase them pre-cut this way, or easily make your own from larger chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally or pounding them thin between two pieces of plastic wrap. Check out this tutorial on how to make chicken cutlets from chicken breasts if you’re starting with whole breasts.
• Butter and Olive Oil: A dynamic duo for searing! I personally love using a combination of both. The olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning at higher heat, while the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that beautifully complements the chicken. Feel free to use one or the other based on your preference or dietary needs.
• Sweet Paprika: This vibrant spice isn’t just for color; it adds a subtle, earthy, and mildly peppery flavor to the chicken. While sweet paprika is our choice, a smoked paprika could lend a more robust, smoky dimension.
• Salt and Pepper: The foundational seasonings. Always season your chicken liberally to taste before cooking to enhance its natural flavors. Freshly ground black pepper and sea salt are recommended for the best results.
• Guacamole: This is where the magic happens! You don’t need a huge quantity for the topping, but since you’ll be getting all the ingredients out, why not make a little extra for dipping? We highly recommend our simple yet delicious One Avocado Guacamole Recipe, which provides just the right amount for approximately one pound of chicken. Alternatively, if time is extremely tight, a good quality store-bought guacamole works perfectly well.
• Pepper Jack Cheese: Shredded for quick melting, Pepper Jack is our go-to for these melts. Its blend of spices and peppers adds a delightful, mild kick that elevates the entire dish without being overly spicy. If you’re not a fan of heat, or prefer a milder flavor, Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese are excellent, creamy alternatives that melt beautifully. A sharp cheddar or a blend of Mexican cheeses would also be fantastic choices.

3 Easy Steps to Guacamole Chicken Perfection

Creating these incredible Guacamole Chicken Melts can be effortlessly broken down into three straightforward and quick tasks, making it an ideal recipe for even the most novice of home cooks.

Step 1: Prepare Your Guacamole
This initial step sets the stage for the vibrant flavors to come. If you’re opting for homemade guacamole, this is where you’ll combine your fresh ingredients. One avocado typically yields the perfect amount for topping approximately one pound of thin-sliced chicken, but don’t hesitate to make extra if you’d like a generous side portion for dipping chips or vegetables. To prepare, simply mash one ripe Haas avocado, then gently fold in diced plum tomato, finely chopped red (or white) onion, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice (which also helps prevent browning), and a pinch of salt. For an authentic touch and added freshness, incorporate some chopped fresh cilantro if you have it on hand. If you’re short on time or prefer convenience, feel free to use a good quality prepared guacamole from your local grocery store.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection on the Stovetop
A sturdy skillet is truly a workhorse in the kitchen, forming the cornerstone of countless 30-minute meals, and this recipe is no exception. Begin by patting your chicken cutlets thoroughly dry with paper towels; this crucial step ensures a beautiful, golden-brown sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then sprinkle them all over with paprika. You don’t need to be overly precise with measurements here; a visual sprinkle is often enough, but a teaspoon serves as a good guideline for a pound of chicken.

Next, heat your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and/or butter and allow it to shimmer and melt until it begins to froth. Carefully arrange the seasoned chicken cutlets in a single layer in the hot pan. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure proper browning and even cooking. Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes on the first side, allowing a lovely golden-brown crust to develop. Flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The exact cooking time will vary slightly depending on the thickness of your cutlets.

Step 3: Layer Guacamole, Cheese, Cover, and Melt to Perfection
Once your chicken is beautifully cooked, it’s time for the final, irresistible layering. Turn off the heat, but keep the skillet on the warm burner to utilize the residual heat. Evenly spread a generous portion of your prepared guacamole over the top of each piece of chicken. Then, sprinkle your chosen shredded cheese—Pepper Jack for a kick, or Monterey Jack/mozzarella for a milder flavor—liberally over the guacamole-topped chicken. Immediately cover the skillet with a lid. This traps the heat, allowing the cheese to melt into a gooey, savory blanket over the guacamole and chicken. It only takes a few short minutes for the cheese to become perfectly melted and bubbly. Once the cheese is gloriously melted, these Guacamole Chicken Melts are ready to be served and enjoyed immediately!

Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings

Guacamole Chicken Melts are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides, especially if you’re maintaining a low-carb lifestyle. For a light and refreshing meal, enjoy them alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette. To complement the flavors and keep it low-carb, consider serving them with fluffy cauliflower rice, which absorbs flavors wonderfully. For a fun, dippable option, low-carb tortilla chips are an excellent choice. Other fantastic pairings include steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers. For those not strictly adhering to a low-carb diet, a side of regular rice, black beans, or warm tortillas would also be delicious.

Tips for Success & Delicious Variations

• Chicken Thickness: Ensure your chicken cutlets are uniform in thickness. If they vary, pound the thicker parts slightly to achieve even cooking and prevent some pieces from drying out while others finish.
• Prevent Guacamole Browning: While the cheese cover helps, using fresh lemon or lime juice in your guacamole is key to keeping it green. If making ahead, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to create an airtight seal.
• Spice It Up: For an extra kick, finely chop a jalapeño or serrano pepper and add it to your guacamole. A dash of cayenne pepper on the chicken can also add a delightful warmth.
• Herb Power: Don’t limit yourself to cilantro. Fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of oregano could add an interesting twist to the guacamole or chicken seasoning.
• Add Veggies: Before adding the guacamole, you can sauté some thinly sliced bell peppers, onions, or even some corn (if not strictly low-carb) in the same pan after cooking the chicken for added flavor and nutrients.
• Make it a Bowl: Serve the chicken and guacamole over a bed of mixed greens or cauliflower rice for a vibrant, satisfying bowl.
• Storage & Reheating: While best enjoyed fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a lid to prevent drying, or in a microwave.

Discover More Delicious Stovetop Chicken Recipes

If you appreciate the simplicity and efficiency of cooking chicken on the stovetop, you’ll love these other fast and flavorful skillet chicken dishes:

• Easy Skillet French Onion Chicken Recipe
• Pan-Fried Lemon Chicken Cutlets
• Easy Strawberry Chicken

Guacamole Chicken Melts Recipe Card

Guacamole Chicken Melts Recipe

Guacamole Chicken Melts offer almost instant gratification. This low-carb recipe utilizes just one pan and is ready to enjoy in a mere 20 minutes, making it perfect for any day of the week.

(Average Rating: 5 out of 5 stars based on 3 votes)

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Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

10 minutes

Total Time:

20 minutes

Servings:

4 Servings

Author:

Marjory Pilley

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon butter
• 1 pound chicken cutlets
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 prepared One Avocado Guacamole (see link or recipe below)
• 1 cup Pepper Jack cheese, shredded (or replace with Monterey Jack or Mozzarella Cheeses)

Guacamole Ingredients:

• 1 Haas Avocado, mashed
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 1 plum tomato, diced
• 2 Tablespoons onion, diced (red or white)
• Cilantro, optional (chopped)

Instructions

1. Add olive oil and butter to a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat until butter is melted and begins to froth.
2. Season chicken cutlets with salt and pepper and sprinkle with paprika on both sides.
3. Place cutlets in a single layer in the skillet, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
4. Cook chicken cutlets for about 3-4 minutes without disturbing. Flip to the other side and cook for 3-4 minutes more, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking time will vary depending upon the thickness of the chicken.
5. If preparing fresh guacamole, mix all of the guacamole ingredients together in a small bowl while the chicken cooks.
6. When chicken is cooked through, turn the heat off or to low. Top each piece of chicken with a portion of the guacamole and sprinkle cheese generously over the top. Cover skillet with a lid and allow the cheese to melt, about 2-3 minutes. Enjoy immediately.

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Nutrition

Calories: 378kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 105mg | Sodium: 386mg | Potassium: 734mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 787IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 222mg | Iron: 1mg

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