This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a smoky, tangy twist! Juicy shredded chicken smothered in barbecue sauce meets gooey melted cheese, all sandwiched between perfectly golden and buttery bread. It’s the perfect quick and easy dinner or lunch idea for when you’re craving something indulgent yet satisfying.
If you’re a fan of cheesy goodness and bold BBQ flavors, this sandwich is guaranteed to become a household favorite.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Skillet or griddle
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Butter knife
Ingredients Overview
- Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken works perfectly.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite barbecue sauce to customize the flavor.
- Cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella melts beautifully for that gooey texture.
- Bread: Use a hearty sandwich bread or sourdough for the best results.
- Butter: Ensures a crispy and golden exterior.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/3 cup barbecue sauce
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough or white sandwich bread recommended)
- 4 slices of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack)
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- Optional: sliced red onions, jalapeños, or fresh herbs for topping
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with barbecue sauce. Mix well until evenly coated.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Place one slice of cheese on the unbuttered side of two bread slices.
- Add a generous layer of BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese.
- Add another slice of cheese on top of the chicken mixture.
- Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing outward.
- Cook the Grilled Cheese:
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt, about 3-4 minutes.
- Flip the sandwiches carefully with a spatula and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is fully melted.
- Serve Hot:
- Remove from the skillet and let the sandwiches cool slightly before slicing. Serve immediately with extra barbecue sauce for dipping, if desired.
Recipe Tips
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or Swiss to suit your taste.
- Make it Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Crispier Bread: Use a panini press for evenly toasted and extra crispy bread.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- A side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
- Sweet potato fries or potato wedges for a hearty meal.
- A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked BBQ chicken?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked BBQ chicken saves time and works perfectly in this recipe.
What’s the best bread for grilled cheese?
Sourdough or thick-cut white bread holds up well and gets nicely crispy. Whole-grain bread is a good alternative for a healthier twist.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can assemble the sandwiches in advance and grill them when ready to eat.
Serving Suggestions
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is ideal for a quick dinner, a lunchbox treat, or even as a game-day snack. Pair with your favorite chips, a bowl of tomato soup, or a pickle spear for the ultimate comfort food experience!
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/3 cup barbecue sauce
- 4 slices of bread sourdough or white sandwich bread recommended
- 4 slices of cheese cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack
- 2 tbsp butter softened
- Optional: sliced red onions jalapeños, or fresh herbs for topping
Instructions
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with barbecue sauce. Mix well until evenly coated.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Place one slice of cheese on the unbuttered side of two bread slices.
- Add a generous layer of BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese.
- Add another slice of cheese on top of the chicken mixture.
- Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing outward.
- Cook the Grilled Cheese:
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt, about 3-4 minutes.
- Flip the sandwiches carefully with a spatula and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is fully melted.
- Serve Hot:
- Remove from the skillet and let the sandwiches cool slightly before slicing. Serve immediately with extra barbecue sauce for dipping, if desired.
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