This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on a classic. Crispy bread, gooey cheese, and tasty BBQ chicken come together for a melty sandwich that’s hard to resist!
Who can say no to this cheesy goodness? I love how easy it is to put together—just throw in the leftovers and grill! Perfect for a quick dinner or a cozy lunch. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: You can use any bread that you like! I find sourdough adds a nice tang, but whole wheat is great for extra fiber. White bread gives it a classic taste. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. It’s flavorful and saves time. If you’re vegetarian, you might try using grilled vegetables or mushrooms instead, seasoned with BBQ sauce for a similar taste.
BBQ Sauce: There are so many types of BBQ sauce! I prefer a sweet and smoky blend, but you can use any kind you love. If you don’t have any, a mix of ketchup with a dash of vinegar and spices can work in a pinch.
Cheese: While I love cheddar for its sharpness, mozzarella is super melty, making this gooey and delicious. Feel free to mix both for more flavor. Vegan cheese can also replace dairy cheese if you want a plant-based option.
Butter: Use regular butter for richness, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, a light spread or olive oil can work too. Just note that it may change the flavor slightly!
How Can I Get a Perfectly Golden Grilled Cheese?
The golden crust is what makes a grilled cheese special! Here are my tips for that restaurant-quality finish:
- Make sure your skillet is medium heat—too hot will burn the bread before the cheese melts.
- Generously butter the bread for an even browning effect.
- Don’t rush the cooking! Give each side about 3-4 minutes before flipping.
- If the cheese isn’t melting by the time the bread is golden, reduce the heat and cover the skillet for a minute. This traps heat and helps the cheese melt without burning the bread.
Let your sandwich rest a minute after cooking before slicing. This allows the cheese to set a bit, making for less mess when you cut it!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice: white, whole wheat, or sourdough)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1-2 tablespoons butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 8 minutes to cook, making it a quick and tasty meal. In just under 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious sandwich ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is well-coated in the sauce. This tasty mixture will be the star of your sandwich, so set it aside for now.
2. Butter the Bread:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. While the skillet is warming up, take your butter and spread it generously on one side of each slice of bread. This will help you achieve that lovely golden-brown crust!
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
Place one slice of the bread, buttered side down, into the heated skillet. Next, sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top of the bread. The cheese will melt beautifully and hold everything together!
4. Add the BBQ Chicken:
Evenly spread the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese layer. Make sure to cover it well so you get that BBQ flavor in every bite!
5. Complete the Sandwich:
On top of your BBQ chicken, add the remaining cheese. Lastly, place the second slice of bread on top, making sure the buttered side is facing up. This will create the perfect crust when cooking.
6. Cook the Sandwich:
Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom slice is golden brown. Take care to watch it closely! Once it’s ready, gently flip the sandwich over and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the second side is also golden brown and the cheese has melted.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After cooking, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it sit for a minute before slicing. If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Then, slice it in half and enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor. Just shred the meat and mix it with the BBQ sauce. It’s an easy way to prepare this grilled cheese in no time!
What Type of Cheese Works Best?
You can use any cheese you like! Cheddar adds a nice sharpness, while mozzarella offers great meltability. For a bit of a kick, consider pepper jack cheese. Feel free to mix and match for a delicious blend!
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat for even warming, or pop it in the microwave, but be aware it might get a bit soggy!
Can I Add Veggies to This Grilled Cheese?
Yes, you can! Sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even spinach would be delicious additions. Just make sure to drain excess moisture to keep your sandwich from getting soggy!
