This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on a classic! With juicy BBQ chicken, melty cheese, and crispy bread, it’s sure to please everyone.
I love how easy it is to whip up this sandwich for lunch or dinner. Add some extra pickles inside for a zingy surprise! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Sourdough or Texas toast works great for this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, whole wheat or a gluten-free bread can replace them.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a time-saver, but you can also use leftovers or even canned chicken in a pinch. Just ensure it’s shredded for easy layering.
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite brand is perfect! You can try different types like honey BBQ or spicy BBQ depending on your taste. If you want a healthier option, homemade BBQ sauce is a great substitute.
Cheese: Mozzarella is melty and delicious while cheddar adds sharpness. Feel free to mix up cheese types; pepper jack gives a nice kick, or you could go for a vegan cheese alternative if you’re dairy-free.
Butter: While butter is classic for grilling, olive oil can be a healthier substitute that also adds a nice flavor.
How Can I Get the Perfect Grilled Cheese Texture?
For the best grilled cheese, focus on heat control and cooking time. Start by cooking at medium heat to avoid burning while ensuring the cheese melts nicely.
- Butter one side of the bread generously for a golden exterior.
- Layer your cheese first before adding the BBQ chicken. This makes for a gooey bottom layer.
- Flip the sandwich gently using a spatula to prevent any filling from spilling out. Use a lid in the skillet to help the cheese melt faster!
Letting the sandwich sit for a minute after cooking helps it hold its shape when you cut it. Enjoy!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice, such as sourdough or Texas toast)
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and tasty meal that you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a medium bowl, take your cooked shredded chicken and mix it with the BBQ sauce. Stir well until all the chicken is coated nicely. This will be the flavorful filling for our sandwich!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Put a skillet on the stove and set it to medium heat. While it gets warm, butter one side of each slice of bread. This will help create a beautiful golden crust when we cook the sandwich.
3. Start Building the Sandwich:
Once the skillet is ready, lay one slice of bread in the skillet, buttered side down. Now, sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the cheddar cheese evenly on top of the bread. This cheesy layer will add that gooey deliciousness!
4. Add the BBQ Chicken:
Spread the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the cheese layer in the skillet. Make sure it covers the cheese as this will be the main filling of your sandwich.
5. Top with More Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of the BBQ chicken. This extra cheese will melt and hold everything together!
6. Complete the Sandwich:
Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side up this time. This will be the top half of your grilled cheese!
7. Cook to Perfection:
Let the sandwich cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom slice is golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwich over and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is also golden brown and the cheese is melted inside.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the sandwich out of the skillet and let it rest for a minute. Then, cut it in half and serve it warm. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a lovely garnish!
Enjoy your tasty BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute mozzarella and cheddar with other cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or even provolone for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that each cheese melts differently, so adjust your cooking time if needed.
What Bread Works Best for This Recipe?
While sourdough and Texas toast are great choices for their sturdiness, you can also use whole grain, ciabatta, or even gluten-free bread if preferred. Just make sure it’s thick enough to handle the fillings without falling apart!
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to assemble, just spread the mixture on the bread and cook as directed. For a freshly grilled texture, it’s best to cook the sandwiches just before serving.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover grilled cheese, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, or pop it in the toaster oven to maintain that crispy texture!
