This is one of those meals that’s simple… but done properly, it feels like something special.
Quick to make.
Big on flavour.
And built from what you already have.
In Part 5, Chef Ian turns one portion of chicken into a crispy open melt — finished with a touch of smokiness and a rich, tangy topping that takes it to another level.
Recipe
- Dish: Open Chicken Melt
- Serves: 1 (generous)
- Cost per serve: Under $5
- Time: 10–15 minutes
Ingredients
👉 To serve:
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Lightly butter one side of each slice (top side only)
- Place bread onto tray or foil container
👉 The buttered side becomes the topping base
Step 2: Build the Topping
In a bowl, combine:
- Chicken
- Corn
- Tomato (seeds removed)
- Parsley
- Shredded cheese
- Greek Souvlaki Zest
Mix together well
👉 This is where the flavour is built
Step 3: Assemble
- Spoon mixture onto the buttered side of the sourdough
Step 4: Add the Flavour Lift
- Sprinkle smoked paprika over the top
👉 Adds a subtle smoky depth before cooking
Step 5: Cook
- Place into air fryer or oven
- Cook for ~6 minutes or until:
- Cheese is melted
- Top is golden
- Bread is crisp underneath
Step 6: Chef Hack (Keep It Clean)
- Use a small foil tray/container
👉 No mess
👉 No cheese drips
👉 Easy to lift and serve
Step 7: Finish & Serve
- Spoon over Smokey Tomato Relish
- Drizzle with caramelised balsamic glaze
👉 Simple ingredients… finished properly
Serving Notes
This is a generous serve:
- Enjoy both pieces
- Or save one (uncooked) for another meal
- Or share with a friend
👉 Add a simple salad if you like
Chef’s Tips
- Butter top side only — keeps base crisp
- Remove tomato seeds to avoid sogginess
- Souvlaki Zest adds a fresh, zesty flavour lift
- Smoked paprika adds depth with no effort
- Relish + balsamic = sweet, smoky, tangy balance
- Foil tray = cleaner cooking, better experience
Skill Focus
- Building flavour into simple meals
- Texture balance (crisp + melt)
- Smart assembly
- Cooking with intention
Final Thought from Chef Ian
“Good food doesn’t need to be complicated…
Just put together properly — and enjoyed properly.”
📺 Watch the Full Tutorial 👉 YouTube Link
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