This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on your classic sandwich! It features gooey cheese melted over tender BBQ chicken, all nestled between crispy bread.
I love making this when I want something quick and tasty. Pair it with a side of fries or a salad, and you’ve got a winning meal everyone will enjoy! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Sourdough or Texas toast are great choices for this recipe. If you’re looking for something lighter, whole wheat or gluten-free bread could work too. Just keep in mind that the texture will change a little.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my favorite for this recipe as it’s pre-cooked and super easy to shred. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or canned chicken if you’re short on time.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce to really personalize the flavor! If you’re looking for a healthier option, a sugar-free or homemade BBQ sauce can also be delicious.
Cheese: Mozzarella and cheddar create a nice blend of flavors. For a twist, try pepper jack for spice or gouda for a smoky taste. Vegan cheese is a great alternative for a dairy-free version.
Butter: While butter gives a nice golden crust, you can use olive oil or a non-dairy spread for grilling if you’re dairy-free.
How Do You Grill the Perfect Grilled Cheese?
Grilling a grilled cheese sandwich might sound easy, but getting that crispy exterior with melted cheese inside needs some attention. Here’s how to ensure your sandwich turns out just right:
- Preheat your skillet on medium heat. Too hot and the bread will burn before the cheese melts.
- Butter the outside of the bread well. This helps to crisp it up and adds flavor.
- Don’t rush the grilling! Cook for 3-4 minutes per side. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Use a spatula to gently press down on the sandwich while cooking. This helps the cheese melt evenly.
- If you’re having issues with the cheese not melting, you can cover the skillet briefly with a lid to create steam.
Enjoy the crispy, cheesy delight of your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese! It’s all about taking your time and enjoying the cooking process.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice, like sourdough or Texas toast)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp butter (for grilling)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 8 minutes to grill. So, in just 18 minutes, you’ll have a wonderfully cheesy and savory sandwich ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken and BBQ Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Stir it well until all the chicken is coated in sauce. Don’t forget to sprinkle in some salt and pepper to make it taste just right!
2. Prepare the Skillet:
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. This is where you’ll grill your sandwich, so make sure it’s nice and warm.
3. Butter the Bread:
Take your butter and spread it on one side of each slice of bread. This will help them get golden and crispy when you grill them.
4. Build Your Sandwich:
Place one slice of bread in the skillet, buttered side down. Now, sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses on top of it. Layer the BBQ chicken mixture next, then pile on the remaining cheese. Finally, place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side up.
5. Grill the Sandwich:
Cook the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is a lovely golden brown. Use a spatula to check. Once it’s ready, carefully flip the sandwich over and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes until it’s golden and the cheese is all melted. Yum!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your sandwich is grilled to perfection, take it out of the skillet and let it cool for about a minute. This makes it easier to cut. Then, slice it in half, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve while it’s hot. Enjoy your tasty BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the mozzarella and cheddar with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well to achieve that gooey goodness!
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook the chicken first! Simply season and grill or bake the chicken until fully cooked, then shred it before mixing with the BBQ sauce. This will add some extra flavor to your sandwich!
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, cool the sandwich completely, then wrap it in foil or place it in an airtight container to refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days. To reheat, pop it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just assemble and grill the sandwich as directed for a quick and delicious meal!
