This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a mouth-watering twist on a classic! With smoky BBQ chicken and melty cheese all tucked between crispy, buttery bread, it’s a feast for your taste buds.
If you’re like me, you might find it hard to stop at just one. Maybe add a side of chips, and you’re all set for a cozy meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I love using sourdough for its crunchy crust and chewy texture, but feel free to use any bread you like! This could be whole wheat, ciabatta, or even gluten-free bread if needed.
Cooked Chicken: For convenience, leftover rotisserie chicken works great. You can also use canned chicken in a pinch. For a vegetarian option, consider using jackfruit seasoned with BBQ sauce instead.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce, whether it’s tangy or sweet. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try making a homemade version with ketchup, vinegar, and spices. You can also use hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Cheese: Mozzarella is fantastic for that gooey stretch, while cheddar adds rich flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in pepper jack for a kick, or use dairy-free cheese if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant.
Butter: Classic butter delivers that great crispiness, but you can substitute with olive oil or vegan butter for a healthier option.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grilled Cheese Texture?
Achieving that golden, crispy texture can be easy with the right technique. It’s all about controlling the heat and using enough butter!
- Start by heating your skillet on medium. This helps prevent burning the bread before the cheese melts.
- Butter is key! Spread it generously on the outer sides of the bread to get a nice crunch.
- Be patient when cooking. If it’s browning too quickly, lower the heat to allow the cheese to melt properly.
- Use a spatula to press down gently on the sandwich as it cooks. This helps the cheese melt and combine with the chicken.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice, like sourdough or sandwich bread)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes of prep time and another 6-10 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll spend around 20 minutes to prepare and enjoy this delicious sandwich!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken with BBQ Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with the BBQ sauce. Stir it well until the chicken is fully coated with the sauce. Set this flavorful mixture aside; you’re going to use it soon!
2. Preheat the Skillet:
Put a skillet on the stove and heat it over medium heat. You want it warm enough to cook the sandwich nicely, but not so hot that it burns the bread.
3. Butter the Bread:
Take the butter and spread it on one side of each slice of bread. Make sure to cover it evenly! Once done, place one slice of bread, butter-side down, into the skillet.
4. Layer the Cheese and Chicken:
On the unbuttered side of the bread in the skillet, sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese. Then, spread the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese. Top it off with the remaining mozzarella and all of the cheddar cheese!
5. Assemble the Sandwich:
Take the second slice of bread and place it on top of the cheesy chicken layers, butter-side up. This will help create that lovely golden crust when you cook it.
6. Cook the Sandwich:
Let the sandwich cook for 3-5 minutes. Check to ensure the bottom side is golden brown and you can see the cheese starting to melt. It’s going to smell amazing!
7. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula, and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the other side is also golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. Be gentle so you don’t spill out the delicious filling!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once both sides of the sandwich are perfectly cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Slice it in half to reveal the gooey melted cheese inside. If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch.
Serve this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese warm, and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds fantastic flavor. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the BBQ sauce as directed in the recipe. It’s a delicious way to make this meal even easier!
What Type of Cheese Can I Use as a Substitute?
If you’re out of mozzarella or cheddar, you can use other melty cheeses like provolone, gouda, or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just make sure the cheese can melt well for that gooey texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store any leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can use a toaster oven or skillet to get it crispy again without making it soggy.
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the BBQ chicken mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, assemble the sandwich and grill it fresh for the best taste and texture!
