This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on a classic favorite! Imagine gooey melted cheese and tender chicken smothered in tasty BBQ sauce, all snuggled between crispy, buttery bread.
I love making this when I want a quick and satisfying meal. It’s like a backyard BBQ and a cheesy sandwich had a delicious baby! 🍔 Don’t forget to serve it with some crunchy pickles!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Use any bread you love! White bread is classic, while whole grain adds a healthy touch, and sourdough brings a nice tang. For gluten-free options, try gluten-free bread, which works well, too.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is super convenient. If you’re vegetarian, you can swap chicken for shredded jackfruit or tofu for a delicious alternative.
BBQ Sauce: Pick your favorite BBQ sauce. I prefer a sweet and smoky flavor, but feel free to experiment with different types or even make your own if you have the ingredients on hand.
Cheese: Cheddar is fabulous for its flavor, while mozzarella gives that creamy melt. You could also mix cheeses for a unique taste or use dairy-free cheese for a plant-based option.
Butter: Butter adds richness, but you can use olive oil or a vegan spread if you’re looking for a healthier option or dairy-free alternative.
How Do You Get the Cheese to Melt Just Right?
The key to melty cheese in your grilled cheese is cooking at the right temperature and layering it properly. Here are some tips:
- Use low to medium heat. Cooking too fast can burn the bread before the cheese melts.
- Layer cheese evenly. Start with a layer on bread, add the chicken, then top with more cheese to create that gooey texture.
- Cover the skillet. This traps heat and helps the cheese melt evenly.
Let the sandwich rest for a minute after cooking; it’ll help everything settle and make it easier to slice!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (white, whole grain, or sourdough)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese will take about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, take your shredded cooked chicken and add the BBQ sauce. Mix it well until the chicken is nicely coated in the sauce. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste for extra flavor!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat. This will be where you’ll cook your sandwich, so make sure it’s nice and warm before you start.
3. Butter the Bread:
Take the butter and spread it on one side of each slice of bread. This will make the bread crispy and golden when you cook it.
4. Assemble the Sandwich:
In the hot skillet, place one slice of bread, butter side down. On top of this, sprinkle half of the shredded cheese to create a cheesy base.
5. Add the BBQ Chicken:
Now, spoon the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the cheese. Make sure to spread it out so every bite has that delicious flavor!
6. Finish Building the Sandwich:
Add the remaining cheese on top of the chicken. Finally, put the second slice of bread on top, butter side up, to complete your sandwich.
7. Cook the Sandwich:
Let the sandwich cook for about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the bottom slice is golden brown and the cheese starts melting. Then, carefully flip the sandwich over.
8. Finish Cooking:
Cook the other side for another 3-5 minutes until it also turns golden brown and the cheese is fully melted inside. Your grilled cheese should be looking delicious by now!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once both sides are crispy and golden, remove the sandwich from the skillet. Let it cool for a minute, then slice it in half. If you want to add a touch of color, sprinkle with some chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your warm, tasty BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! You can use any type of bread you enjoy, such as whole grain, sourdough, or even a gluten-free option. Just keep in mind that denser breads like sourdough might take a bit longer to toast, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
What Type of Cheese Works Best?
While cheddar and mozzarella are great choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or a melty blend. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well for the best texture!
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just assemble and grill the sandwich when you’re ready to eat. This makes for a quick and tasty meal any day!
How to Store Leftover Sandwiches?
If you have leftovers, wrap the sandwich in foil or parchment paper and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat or use a toaster oven to maintain the crispiness of the bread.
