This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food! It’s packed with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and a sweet tangy BBQ sauce—all melted together between crispy bread.
Perfect for lunch or dinner, this sandwich is so yummy that you might find it hard to share. I love making it when I want something quick and satisfying. Who doesn’t enjoy a cheesy delight?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: You can use any bread you like! Sourdough adds a nice tang, while whole wheat is healthier. White bread is classic and gets nice and crispy. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free bread option!
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for speed, but you can also use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken. For a vegetarian option, substitute with shredded jackfruit or tempeh marinated in BBQ sauce.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand! If you’re feeling adventurous, make your own BBQ sauce at home. You can adjust the sweetness and spice to your preference. For a low-sugar version, look for sugar-free BBQ sauce.
Cheese: Mozzarella is melty and mild, perfect for this sandwich. If you want more flavor, use a cheese blend with cheddar or pepper jack. Vegan cheese works too, just check that it melts well!
Butter: I use unsalted butter for grilling but you could swap this for olive oil or a vegan butter alternative if you prefer.
How Can I Get My Grilled Cheese Perfectly Crispy?
Grilling the sandwich just right can be tricky! Getting that perfect crispy texture takes some patience. Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is preheated but not too hot. Medium heat works best for even cooking.
- Buttering the bread well is key. Cover the whole outside surface to create a nice golden crust.
- Grill each side for 3-4 minutes until it’s golden brown. If it browns too quickly, reduce the heat a bit.
- Don’t rush to flip. Let the cheese get nice and gooey before turning it over.
- If you want extra melty cheese, cover the skillet with a lid after flipping. It helps trap heat!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice: sourdough, whole wheat, or white)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your preferred brand or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a cheese blend)
- 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes in total, including 5 minutes for preparation and about 5 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken Mixture:
In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce until the chicken is completely coated. Taste it and sprinkle in some salt and pepper if you think it needs more flavor!
2. Heat Up the Skillet:
Place a skillet on the stove and set the heat to medium. This will be the perfect temperature for grilling your sandwich nicely.
3. Butter the Bread:
Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will help the bread get a nice golden-brown crust while grilling.
4. Assemble the Sandwich:
Put one slice of bread in the skillet, butter side down. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top of the bread. Then, add the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese, followed by the rest of the mozzarella.
5. Complete the Sandwich:
Top everything with the second slice of bread, this time with the butter side facing up.
6. Grill the Sandwich:
Let the sandwich grill for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom slice is golden brown. Carefully flip it over and grill for another 3-4 minutes on the other side until it’s also golden brown and the cheese is all melted.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the sandwich off the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Then, slice it in half. If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch! Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any bread you prefer—sourdough, whole wheat, white, or even a cheesy variety like garlic bread for extra flavor. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the fillings without falling apart.
What If I Don’t Have Cooked Chicken?
No problem! You can quickly cook chicken breasts or thighs. Simply season them with salt and pepper, grill or sauté until cooked through, and then shred. Alternatively, canned chicken or rotisserie chicken from the store is great for convenience!
Can I Make This Sandwich in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can bake it! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Assemble the sandwich as instructed, then wrap it in aluminum foil and bake for about 15 minutes. Unwrap it for the last 5 minutes to get that crispy outer layer!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop it in the toaster oven or skillet for a few minutes to retain its crunch. Enjoy the flavors all over again!
