This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a tasty twist on a classic! Juicy chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and gooey cheese come together between crispy bread for a yummy treat.
You might want to make a double batch because everyone will want seconds! I love the way the cheese melts perfectly, making every bite cheesy and delicious. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Use any cooked chicken you have, like rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken. If you’re short on time, canned chicken can work too. For a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or a meat substitute like pulled jackfruit.
BBQ Sauce: Go with your favorite brand! If you’re looking for a change, homemade BBQ sauce can be fun to make. You can also use hot sauce or teriyaki sauce for a different flavor.
Cheese: Mozzarella is great for its meltiness, while cheddar adds sharpness. If you’re not a cheddar fan, try pepper jack for a kick or gouda for a unique twist.
Bread: White bread is classic, but feel free to use sourdough, whole grain, or even gluten-free bread if needed. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling!
Butter: Spread softened butter for easy spreading. You can substitute with olive oil or vegan butter to keep it dairy-free.
How Do You Achieve a Perfectly Grilled Cheese?
Getting a grilled cheese to the perfect golden-brown crust while keeping the insides melty can be tricky. Here are tips to ensure success:
- Cook on medium heat; this prevents burning while allowing cheese to melt.
- Butter the bread generously! This helps achieve that nice crispness.
- Don’t rush the flip! Wait until the first side is golden before turning.
Let it cool for a minute after cooking to let the cheese set slightly. Enjoy your delicious BBQ chicken grilled cheese!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices of bread (white, sourdough, or your choice)
- 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 8 minutes to cook, for a total of roughly 18 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for a satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken and BBQ Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, take the shredded chicken and add the BBQ sauce. Use a fork or spoon to stir everything together until the chicken is fully coated in the sauce. This will give your grilled cheese a flavorful kick!
2. Prepare the Skillet:
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. While it warms up, butter one side of each slice of bread. Make sure to cover the bread nicely with butter for that golden, crispy texture.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
Once your skillet is ready, place two slices of bread in the skillet, buttered side down. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of the bread. Now, evenly layer the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese. Finally, add the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of the chicken.
4. Top and Cook:
Now, place the other two slices of bread on top of everything, buttered side facing up. Cook the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes, until the bottom slice is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the sandwich over to cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes, until it’s golden and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your sandwich is cooked to perfection, take it out of the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Slice the sandwich in half and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your delightful BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese while it’s warm!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar create a great blend, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for some heat, gouda for a smoky flavor, or even cream cheese for extra creaminess. Just keep the cheese quantities similar to maintain the desired gooeyness.
What Bread Works Best for This Recipe?
You can use any bread you like! Sourdough adds a nice tang, while whole grain offers added nutrients. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the fillings without tearing during cooking.
Can I Make This Sandwich with Leftover Chicken?
Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe. Just shred it and mix with the BBQ sauce as directed. You’re saving time and making a delicious meal with what you have on hand!
How to Store Leftover Sandwiches?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the skillet over low heat to avoid sogginess, or use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to warm them through while keeping them crispy.
