Panera Bread Sierra Turkey

Panera Bread Sierra Turkey was more than just a sandwich—it was a cult favorite that combined tender smoked turkey, bold chipotle mayo, and the signature flavor of asiago cheese focaccia to create something truly unforgettable. Fans of the Sierra Turkey Sandwich still crave its perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and savory, and for good reason. Although it’s no longer on the menu, this copycat recipe brings back all the flavors you remember with simple ingredients and easy steps you can recreate at home.

Why You’ll Love the Panera Bread Sierra Turkey

The Panera Bread Sierra Turkey sandwich earned its loyal following for good reason—it delivered bold flavor and satisfying texture in every bite. With layers of thinly sliced smoked turkey, zesty chipotle mayo, and fresh greens tucked between slices of asiago cheese focaccia, the Sierra Turkey Sandwich was anything but ordinary. Whether you’re recreating it at home or remembering the original, here’s why this sandwich stands out:

• The smoky richness of the turkey perfectly complements the tangy heat of the chipotle mayo.
• Asiago cheese focaccia adds a savory depth and soft, chewy bite you won’t find in ordinary sandwich bread.
• Fresh red onions and greens bring just the right crunch and balance.
• It’s easy to customize, making it perfect for quick lunches or casual dinners.

Ingredients for Panera Bread Sierra Turkey

To recreate the signature flavor of the Panera Bread Sierra Turkey sandwich at home, you’ll need a few essential components. From the bold, smoky chipotle mayo to the soft asiago cheese focaccia and savory turkey, each ingredient brings something important to the final bite. Below is everything required to build a fully satisfying Sierra Turkey Sandwich.

Chipotle Mayo:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, pureed
• 1 lime, juiced

Sandwich:

• 2 small focaccia breads, cut into 8 sandwich-size slices (preferably asiago cheese focaccia)
• Olive oil (for brushing or toasting the bread)
• 12 smoked turkey breast slices
• ½ onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup arugula or mixed greens
• ½ avocado, sliced

How to Make Panera Bread Sierra Turkey

Making the Panera Bread Sierra Turkey sandwich at home is simple, quick, and incredibly rewarding. Each step brings you closer to recreating the classic Sierra Turkey Sandwich, complete with the smoky chipotle mayo and soft asiago cheese focaccia that made it so popular.

1. Prepare the Chipotle Mayo
   In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sugar, pureed chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Toast the Bread
   Lightly spray the asiago cheese focaccia slices with olive oil. Toast the bread in a toaster or use a panini press until it’s golden and slightly crisp on the outside while remaining soft inside.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches
   Spread a generous layer of the chipotle mayo on the cut sides of each toasted focaccia slice. Add sliced smoked turkey breast, followed by thin red onion slices, avocado, and a handful of arugula or mixed greens.
4. Finish and Serve
   Close each sandwich with the top slice of focaccia and press gently. Serve immediately while the bread is warm and the flavors are fresh.

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Tips for Success

To make your homemade Panera Bread Sierra Turkey sandwich as close to the original as possible, a few simple techniques can elevate the flavor and texture. These tips will help you get the most from your ingredients and recreate the experience of the Sierra Turkey Sandwich at its best.

• Use freshly baked asiago cheese focaccia for the most authentic texture and flavor.
• Let the chipotle mayo sit for at least 10 minutes after mixing—this allows the flavors to develop.
• Lightly toasting the focaccia enhances the sandwich’s overall texture without making it too hard.
• Layer the ingredients evenly so every bite includes turkey, chipotle mayo, onion, avocado, and greens.

Equipment Needed for Panera Bread Sierra Turkey

Creating the Sierra Turkey Sandwich at home doesn’t require specialized tools, but having the right equipment ensures ease and consistency. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare and assemble your sandwich with minimal effort.

• Small mixing bowl (for the chipotle mayo)
• Whisk or spoon (for combining the sauce ingredients)
• Sharp knife (for slicing avocado and onion)
• Cutting board
• Toaster, grill pan, or panini press (for warming the asiago cheese focaccia)
• Spatula or sandwich press (optional, for even toasting or pressing the sandwich)

Variations for Panera Bread Sierra Turkey

The beauty of the Panera Bread Sierra Turkey sandwich lies in its versatility. While the original Sierra Turkey Sandwich is beloved for its classic blend of flavors, it can easily be adapted to suit different tastes or dietary needs without losing its signature appeal.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the smoked turkey with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a hearty plant-based alternative that still pairs well with chipotle mayo and asiago cheese focaccia.
• Spicy Upgrade: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to intensify the heat from the chipotle mayo.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the sandwich ingredients wrapped in large romaine or butter lettuce leaves instead of bread.
• Cheese Boost: Add a slice of pepper jack or provolone along with the smoked turkey to enhance the cheesy richness beyond the asiago cheese focaccia.

Serving Suggestions for Panera Bread Sierra Turkey

To make the most of your homemade Panera Bread Sierra Turkey sandwich, consider pairing it with sides and drinks that complement its smoky and tangy flavors. These serving suggestions round out the meal and elevate the Sierra Turkey Sandwich into a satisfying lunch or light dinner.

• Soup Pairing: Serve with a warm bowl of tomato basil soup or broccoli cheddar for a café-style combination.
• Crisp Sides: Add kettle-cooked chips, sweet potato fries, or a dill pickle spear for a satisfying crunch.
• Fresh Salad: A side of mixed greens with vinaigrette balances the richness of the chipotle mayo and turkey.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing drink helps cut through the bold flavors of the asiago cheese focaccia and chipotle mayo.

Frequently Asked Questions About Panera Bread Sierra Turkey

Does Panera Bread have Sierra Turkey on the menu?

No, Panera Bread no longer offers the Sierra Turkey sandwich on its regular menu. It was a longtime favorite, but it has been discontinued, which is why many fans now turn to copycat recipes to recreate it at home using ingredients like chipotle mayo and asiago cheese focaccia.

Did Panera Bread stop selling the Sierra Turkey Sandwich?

Yes, the Sierra Turkey Sandwich was removed from Panera Bread’s menu several years ago. Despite its popularity, it was phased out during a menu update. However, the flavors can still be enjoyed with this homemade version featuring the same signature components.

How many calories were in the Panera Bread Sierra Turkey Sandwich?

While the exact count may have varied by portion size and preparation, the original Panera Bread Sierra Turkey sandwich contained approximately 820 calories. This included smoked turkey, chipotle mayo, asiago cheese focaccia, and other standard toppings.

Can I make the Sierra Turkey Sandwich ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components in advance—especially the chipotle mayo and pre-sliced ingredients. For best results, assemble the sandwich just before serving to maintain the texture of the asiago cheese focaccia and keep the greens fresh.

Final Thoughts

Bringing back the flavors of the Panera Bread Sierra Turkey sandwich is as simple as layering quality ingredients like smoked turkey, chipotle mayo, and asiago cheese focaccia into one satisfying bite. While the original Sierra Turkey Sandwich may no longer be available on the Panera Bread menu, this homemade version captures everything fans loved about it. Whether you’re recreating a favorite or discovering it for the first time, this sandwich delivers bold flavor and comforting nostalgia in every slice.

More Panera-Inspired Recipes to Try

For anyone who enjoyed the bold flavors of the Panera Bread Sierra Turkey sandwich, another must-try is our Copycat Panera Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe. It delivers the same layered satisfaction with creamy chipotle mayo, tender grilled chicken, and fresh avocado. Just like the Sierra Turkey Sandwich, it captures that signature Panera flavor experience, especially when served on toasted asiago cheese focaccia or your favorite hearty bread.