This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a warm and cheesy delight! It features tender chicken covered in flavorful BBQ sauce, all melted between golden, crispy bread.
I love how easy it is to whip up after a busy day. Just assemble, grill, and enjoy! Plus, it’s a fun twist on the classic grilled cheese that always impresses friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Use your favorite type, but I recommend sourdough for its great texture and flavor. If you prefer something softer, Texas toast works well. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free bread that you enjoy.
Cooked Chicken: Leftover rotisserie chicken is my go-to—it’s already cooked and super convenient! If you’re vegetarian, try using shredded jackfruit seasoned with BBQ sauce for a similar texture.
BBQ Sauce: Choose a BBQ sauce you love; a smoky or sweet one can add a nice punch. If you want to make your own, mixing ketchup, vinegar, and a bit of brown sugar can create a quick homemade version.
Cheese: I use mozzarella for its melty goodness and cheddar for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, vegan cheese is widely available now and can melt nicely.
Butter: Butter is traditional for grilling, but you can use olive oil or plant-based butter if you want a dairy-free option.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Grilled Cheese?
The secret to great grilled cheese is in the cooking method. Here are steps to ensure your sandwich has that perfect crispy outer layer and gooey inside:
- Always butter the bread evenly. This helps it crisp up perfectly.
- Cook over medium heat. Too high and the bread burns before the cheese melts.
- Don’t rush it! Cook each side for 4-5 minutes for an even golden color.
- Press down gently on the sandwich with a spatula. This helps meld everything together.
Let it cool for a minute before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes for cleaner cuts. Enjoy your meal!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice: sourdough, Texas toast, etc.)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes of preparation and around 10 minutes of cooking time, giving you a total of around 20 minutes before you can enjoy this tasty sandwich!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Mix them together well so the chicken is nicely coated with the sauce. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the rest of the sandwich.
2. Preheat the Skillet:
Turn your skillet on to medium heat. Allow it to warm up while you get everything else ready for cooking.
3. Butter the Bread:
Take the butter and spread it on one side of each slice of bread. This will help your sandwich get that lovely golden brown color when cooking!
4. Start Building Your Sandwich:
Place one slice of bread in the skillet, butter-side down. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top of this slice. This will make a gooey base for your BBQ chicken.
5. Add the BBQ Chicken:
Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese, spreading it evenly. This gives plenty of flavor and deliciousness in every bite!
6. Top It Off:
Layer the remaining mozzarella cheese and all the cheddar cheese on top of the chicken. Finally, place the other slice of bread on top, butter-side up.
7. Cook the Sandwich:
Let the sandwich cook for about 4-5 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to burn it!
8. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Gently flip the sandwich over using a spatula. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the other side is also golden brown.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the sandwich out of the skillet and let it cool for a minute, then slice it in half. If you want, you can sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top before enjoying!
Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar create a great flavor combo, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, gouda, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just keep in mind that soft cheeses melt better, while firmer ones may take longer to melt.
What Kind of Bread Can I Use?
You can use any bread you love! Sourdough, Texas toast, whole wheat, or even gluten-free bread will work just fine. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the filling and toast nicely without getting soggy.
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 medium heat for a nice crisp, or place them in the microwave, though this may make the bread a bit softer.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with a mix of your favorite grilled vegetables or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, combined with BBQ sauce. The cheeses will add great flavor, making it a delightful vegetarian treat!
