This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a yummy twist on the classic sandwich! It’s packed with tender BBQ chicken and melted cheese, all grilled to golden perfection.
You can’t beat that smoky flavor and gooey goodness! I like to pair it with some crunchy pickles on the side for an extra kick. Trust me, it’s a hit at any meal! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Sourdough or Texas toast is best for that crispy, chewy texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, any hearty bread like whole wheat or ciabatta will work. Gluten-free bread can also be used for a allergy-friendly option.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. Leftover chicken is another good choice. For a vegetarian version, consider using shredded jackfruit or even diced tofu for a meaty texture.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce to match your taste. If you’re low on BBQ sauce, you can mix ketchup with a little vinegar and spices as a quick substitute.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and cheddar make a delicious combo. For a twist, try pepper jack for a bit of spice or gouda for a smokey flavor. Just make sure to use a mix that melts well!
Butter: Traditionally used for grilling, but if you want a healthier option, you could use olive oil. Just keep in mind that the butter adds extra flavor and crispiness.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Grilled Cheese?
Grilling cheese can be tricky since you want it crispy on the outside and melty on the inside. Here are some tips:
- Use medium heat to avoid burning while ensuring the inside cooks through.
- Don’t rush—let each side cook for about 3-4 minutes. Flip carefully to keep the sandwich intact.
- If the cheese isn’t melting after flipping, you can cover the skillet with a lid for a minute to create steam, helping the cheese melt faster.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (preferably 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
- 1-2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 8-10 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll need about 20 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Stir until all the chicken is coated with the sauce. This will give your grilled cheese that tasty BBQ flavor!
2. Preheat the Skillet:
Set a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Let it warm up while you prepare the sandwich.
3. Butter the Bread:
Take your slices of bread and spread butter generously on one side of each slice. This will help them get that nice golden crust when cooking!
4. Build the Sandwich:
Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, onto the hot skillet. Next, sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of the bread. Then, evenly spread the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese. Finally, add the rest of the cheese and top it all with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
5. Cook the Sandwich:
Let the sandwich cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and you can see the cheese starting to melt. Remember to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
6. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the sandwich over with a spatula and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is also golden brown and the cheese is gooey and melted.
7. Slice and Serve:
Once done, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it sit for a minute. Then slice it in half. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese hot and cheesy!
Can I Use Any Type of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sourdough and Texas toast add excellent flavor and texture, you can use any bread you like. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the fillings without falling apart. Good alternatives include whole grain, white, or even a gluten-free bread if needed.
What Can I Substitute for Cooked Chicken?
If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can use rotisserie chicken, pulled pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to season your substitutes well to maintain a flavorful BBQ profile.
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 3 days. When you’re ready to make the sandwich, just assemble and grill as directed. It’s a great way to meal prep!
How to Store Leftover Sandwiches?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in a skillet over low heat, covering the pan to help melt the cheese while preventing the bread from getting too crispy.
