This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on a classic favorite! Juicy chicken smothered in tangy BBQ sauce is surrounded by gooey melted cheese and crispy bread.
You won’t be able to resist this easy-to-make sandwich. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and I love pairing it with a side of fries. Trust me, this combo is a winner! 🍗🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I love using sourdough for its crusty exterior and chewy texture. Texas toast is another great choice because it holds up well against the fillings. If you want a lighter option, whole grain or gluten-free bread will work too!
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is convenient and full of flavor. If you’re looking to save time, use canned chicken or leftover grilled chicken. For a vegetarian alternative, swap in black beans or jackfruit mixed with BBQ sauce.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce, whether it’s smoky, sweet, or spicy! If you’re out, feel free to make a quick homemade version with ketchup, vinegar, and spices. For a different twist, buffalo sauce adds a nice kick!
Cheese: I recommend mozzarella for its gooey texture and cheddar for rich flavor. Mixing in pepper jack can add some heat if you like it spicy. You can substitute with dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
What’s the Best Way to Get a Perfectly Grilled Sandwich?
The secret to a perfect grilled cheese is all in the cooking technique. You want the bread crispy and the cheese melted without burning the sandwich. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Use medium heat: This helps the cheese melt evenly while toasting the bread. Starting too high can burn the bread before the cheese melts.
- Spread butter generously on both sides of the bread. It not only adds flavor but also helps achieve a beautiful golden color.
- Don’t rush the flipping! Wait until you see the edges of the sandwich getting crispy before flipping to the other side.
- If the cheese isn’t fully melted after both sides are toasted, lower the heat and cover the skillet for a minute to trap heat and encourage melting.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice, e.g., sourdough or Texas toast)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 8 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal to whip up in just 18 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce in the bowl. Stir them together until the chicken is completely coated with the savory sauce. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, so it’s bursting with flavor!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Let the butter melt and swirl it around so it coats the skillet nicely; this will help your sandwich brown perfectly.
3. Layer the First Side of the Sandwich:
Once the butter is melted, put one slice of bread in the skillet. Now, sprinkle half of your mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of the bread. Make sure it’s evenly covered so every bite is cheesy!
4. Add the BBQ Chicken Mixture:
Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture right over the cheese layer and spread it out evenly. This will create a mouthwatering filling for your grilled cheese.
5. Complete the Sandwich:
Top the BBQ chicken with the remaining cheese, and then carefully place the second slice of bread on top. Press it down gently to help everything stick together.
6. Cook Until Golden Brown:
Cook the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom slice of bread is golden brown and you can see the cheese beginning to melt. The aroma will be amazing!
7. Flip the Sandwich:
Now, with a spatula, carefully flip the sandwich over. If you need more butter for the skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter now. Cook for another 3-4 minutes on this side until it’s golden brown and the cheese is gooey and melted.
8. Slice and Serve:
Once your sandwich is ready, remove it from the skillet and let it cool slightly on a plate. After a moment, slice it in half so you can see all that cheesy goodness inside!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely pop of color. Serve your BBQ chicken grilled cheese hot and enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe. Just shred it and mix with BBQ sauce as directed. If your chicken is refrigerated, you may want to warm it slightly in the microwave before mixing to help it combine better with the sauce.
Can I Substitute Different Cheeses?
Yes, you can! While mozzarella and cheddar are delicious, feel free to use whatever cheese you prefer—Monterey Jack, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick! Just be mindful that some cheeses may melt differently, so adjust cooking time if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I recommend using an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help crisp up the bread while warming the cheese.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Definitely! Just substitute the regular bread with gluten-free bread. Many options are available, from baguettes to sliced bread, so you can enjoy this tasty sandwich while accommodating your dietary needs!
