This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on a classic! Picture gooey cheese, tender chicken, and zesty barbecue sauce, all grilled to golden perfection on crispy bread.
Honestly, what’s better than cheese dripping everywhere? I can never eat just one slice. Perfect for lunch or a quick dinner when your taste buds want a little adventure! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Any bread you love will work, but sourdough gives a nice crust. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try whole grain or a gluten-free variety. Personal favorite? The slight tang of sourdough really complements the BBQ!
Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for great flavor and convenience. If you’re vegetarian, try using shredded jackfruit mixed with barbecue sauce for a similar texture and taste.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce! For a kick, try a spicy or smoky version. If you can’t find BBQ sauce, mix ketchup with a bit of molasses and vinegar for a quick alternative.
Cheese: While mozzarella is gooey and mild, cheddar adds sharpness. Mixing both can be delightful. If you’re dairy-free, use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for flavor.
Butter: For grilling, butter gives the best taste, but olive oil can be a healthier option. Some may even use mayonnaise for a crispy finish!
How Do You Grill the Perfect Grilled Cheese?
The key to grilling is keeping a steady medium-low heat. This ensures the bread gets golden while the cheese melts just right. Here are some tips for success:
- Start with a well-heated skillet. It shouldn’t be smoking but warm enough to sizzle a drop of water.
- Butter the bread generously. This creates a crispy, golden crust. Don’t skip this step!
- Layer wisely: cheese goes on the bottom, followed by the filling, and topped with cheese again. This helps bind everything.
- Be patient! Flip the sandwich gently around the 4-5 minute mark. If resistance is felt, wait another minute.
Enjoying the process makes the end result even better, and grilling is all about finding that balance! Happy cooking!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice: sourdough, white, etc.)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar)
- 1-2 tablespoons butter (for grilling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to grill, for a total of around 20 minutes from start to finish. Quick and delightful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a bowl, add the shredded chicken and barbecue sauce. Mix them together until the chicken is well-coated with the sauce. Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper as needed. This will ensure your filling is flavorful!
2. Get Your Skillet Ready:
Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. This is where the magic happens! A medium-low heat allows the bread to get nice and toasted while the cheese melts perfectly.
3. Butter the Bread:
Take the butter and spread it on one side of each slice of bread. Make sure to cover the entire surface. Then, place one slice of bread in the skillet, buttered side down. This will be the bottom of your sandwich.
4. Build Your Sandwich:
On top of the bread in the skillet, sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly. Then, add your BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese, spreading it out so every bite has some chicken. Finally, top the chicken with the remaining cheese, and place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side facing up.
5. Grill to Perfection:
Grill the sandwich for about 4-5 minutes, or until the bottom slice is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the sandwich over and grill the other side for another 4-5 minutes. You’re looking for that perfect golden color and melted cheese!
6. Slice and Serve:
Once the sandwich is grilled to perfection, remove it from the skillet and let it cool for about a minute. Use a sharp knife to slice the sandwich in half. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch before serving. Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe and will save you time. Just shred enough chicken from the rotisserie to make about 1 cup, mix it with the barbecue sauce, and you’re good to go!
What Bread Works Best for Grilled Cheese?
Any bread you love will work! Sourdough and white bread are popular choices for their flavor and texture. If you want something heartier, try whole grain or a ciabatta roll. Just ensure it can hold the filling without getting soggy!
How Do I Store Leftover BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
If you have leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy.
Can I Customize the Cheese in This Recipe?
Definitely! While mozzarella and cheddar are great options, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Gouda, pepper jack, or even a creamy brie can add a unique twist to your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese! Just let the cheese melt fully for the best results.
