Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large telera rolls, split lengthwise
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup refried beans, warmed
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Mexican crema
- 4 slices Oaxaca or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 whole ripe avocado, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños (chiles en vinagre)
- 1 tablespoon butter or vegetable oil for grilling
Instructions
- Step 1: Slice the telera rolls and prepare the spreads; generously spread the warmed refried beans on the bottom half of each roll and the mayonnaise or crema on the top half.
- Step 2: Layer the sandwiches by distributing the shredded chicken evenly over the beans, followed by two slices of cheese placed directly over the chicken on each sandwich.
- Step 3: Heat the butter or oil in a large skillet or on a griddle over medium heat. Place the open sandwiches cheese-side up onto the heated surface, covering the skillet if possible, until the cheese begins to melt (about 2-3 minutes).
- Step 4: Carefully place the top halves of the rolls (mayonnaise side) onto the melted cheese and gently press the entire sandwich down with a spatula until the exterior bread is golden brown and crisp, flipping once if necessary.
- Step 5: Remove the tortas from the skillet, open them quickly, and immediately add the fresh slices of avocado and the pickled jalapeños before closing the sandwich and serving warm.
Notes
- For best texture, store pre-cooked chicken and beans separately for up to 3 days, and only assemble and grill the tortas fresh when ready to serve.
- If you have leftovers, remove the avocado and jalapeños, and reheat the torta in a dry skillet or toaster oven until the bread is crunchy again (do not microwave).
- Complete the meal by pairing this rich torta with a bright, crisp side like jicama slaw, or a handful of seasoned tortilla chips and cool salsa verde.
- Don't skimp on the grilling process; pressing the sandwich firmly with a spatula or weighted pan creates the essential golden-brown crust that holds all the delicious fillings together.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American