This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a tasty twist on the classic sandwich! With tender chicken, sticky BBQ sauce, and melty cheese, every bite is packed with flavor.
It’s like a backyard BBQ in a sandwich! I love making it quick for lunch or dinner. Pair it with crispy fries, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a treat! 🍗🧀
Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Use any type you like! Sourdough adds tang, while whole wheat is hearty. Gluten-free bread works too if you have dietary needs.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is super convenient. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite flavor! If you prefer a spicier kick, look for a smoky or spicy BBQ sauce. Homemade BBQ sauce is another fun option.
Cheese: Mozzarella is great for stretching, but feel free to mix it up! Cheddar adds a sharp flavor, while Pepper Jack gives it some heat. A blend of your favorites is the way to go!
Butter: Any butter will work, but I love using garlic butter for extra yumminess. Olive oil is a lighter alternative, especially if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Get My Grilled Cheese Extra Crunchy?
Getting that perfect crunch on a grilled cheese is all about technique! Start by buttering the bread well—don’t be shy. This helps create a nice golden crust.
- Heat your skillet to medium, so the bread gets time to toast without burning.
- Press down gently with a spatula as it cooks; this helps the cheese melt evenly and the bread toast well.
- If you want it even crunchier, cover the skillet with a lid for the last couple of minutes to melt the cheese while keeping the bread crispy.
Flip carefully and enjoy achieving that delightful crunch! Perfect grilled cheese is a true comfort food treat.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 8-10 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 20 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the BBQ Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Stir everything together until the chicken is well coated in the sauce. This will give your sandwich that delicious BBQ flavor! Set the mixture aside while you prepare the rest.
2. Heating the Skillet:
Place a skillet on the stove over medium heat. You want it hot but not too hot, so keep an eye on it while you get the bread ready.
3. Preparing the Bread:
Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will help make the sandwich crispy and golden. Once the skillet is heated, lay one slice of bread in the skillet, buttered side down so it gets nice and toasty.
4. Layering the Ingredients:
On the unbuttered side of the bread in the skillet, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Next, spoon on the BBQ chicken mixture and spread it out evenly. Then, add the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top. If you want an extra cheesy kick, add the cheddar cheese on top too!
5. Assembling the Sandwich:
Take the second slice of bread and place it on top of the chicken and cheese, with the buttered side facing up. This will be the top of your sandwich.
6. Cooking the Sandwich:
Cook the sandwich for about 4-5 minutes or until the bottom slice is golden brown. Use a spatula to carefully flip the sandwich over and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes, until it’s golden and the cheese is melted. If it seems like it’s cooking too fast, you can lower the heat a bit.
7. Final Touches:
Once both sides are perfectly golden brown, take the sandwich out of the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Then slice it in half, and if you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a nice touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is now ready to eat! Serve it warm and enjoy a tasty, comforting meal!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and mix it with the BBQ sauce as instructed. You’ll get a delicious flavor without any extra cooking!
What Types of Bread Work Best for This Recipe?
You can use any bread you like! Sourdough, whole wheat, or even Texas toast work great. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the fillings without falling apart.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet on low heat to warm it gently, which will help keep the bread crispy.
Can I Make This Sandwich Spicy?
Of course! If you like a bit of heat, try adding some sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the BBQ chicken mixture. You can also opt for pepper jack cheese for an extra kick!
