This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese combines gooey cheese with tender chicken and a splash of BBQ sauce, all toasted to golden perfection. It’s messy, cheesy, and oh-so-good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Sourdough or a crusty white bread is ideal for this grilled cheese because it holds up well to fillings and becomes crispy. If you have other types like whole wheat or even gluten-free bread, those can work too! Just make sure they’re sturdy.
Shredded Chicken: Cooked chicken is the star here. I often use rotisserie chicken for its flavor and convenience. If you’re vegetarian, consider using jackfruit or mushrooms for a similar texture!
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce—sweet, tangy, or spicy. You can substitute with a homemade sauce or even a sauce like teriyaki for a different twist on flavor.
Cheese: Cheddar gives a classic flavor, but Monterey Jack adds nice creaminess. Feel free to try a combination or even swap in a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
Butter: Butter helps achieve a golden crust. If you prefer a healthier option, olive oil will work well too, although it won’t provide quite the same buttery taste.
How Do I Get My Grilled Cheese Extra Crispy and Cheesy?
To achieve that perfect crispy exterior and melty cheese inside, here are some tips you can follow:
- Start with medium heat. If the skillet is too hot, the bread may burn before the cheese melts.
- Use enough butter (or oil) to generously coat the skillet. But don’t overdo it—just a tablespoon is enough to get that great golden color.
- Layer cheese both under and over the chicken in the sandwich. This helps create a gooey filling and keeps everything held together.
- Once assembled, press down lightly on the sandwich. This helps the layers merge together and cook evenly.
- Flip carefully after a few minutes. If you have a spatula or a turner, use that to help support the sandwich as you flip it.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (preferably sourdough or crusty white)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your preferred variety)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 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 cook. A quick, easy meal that’s perfect for any time you’re craving something warm and cheesy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, take that shredded cooked chicken and mix it with your BBQ sauce. Stir until every bit of chicken is coated. This will add a lovely flavor to your grilled cheese!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Grab a skillet and heat it over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt, swirling it around to coat the bottom of the skillet. This butter will give your sandwich that lovely, golden color!
3. Build Your Sandwich:
Now it’s time to start layering! Place one slice of bread in the melted butter. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top of the bread. Then, add your BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the cheese. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top before placing the second slice of bread over everything.
4. Cook the Sandwich:
Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula so that both slices of bread are now touching the pan. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes. You want the bread to be golden brown and the cheese inside to be melted. When it’s ready, flip it again and cook the other side for the same amount of time.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
Once both sides are beautifully golden and crispy, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool slightly on a cutting board. When you’re ready to eat, slice it in half. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy your tasty BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken makes a great shortcut. Just shred the chicken from the rotisserie and mix it with your BBQ sauce as usual. This saves you time while still packing lots of flavor!
What Type of Bread Works Best?
Sourdough or a crusty white bread works wonderfully because it holds up well during grilling. However, if you’re looking for something softer, whole wheat or even a gluten-free bread can also work—just keep an eye on cooking time as they may toast differently!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you want to reheat it, place it in a skillet over medium-low heat to crisp up the bread again, or use an oven for a few minutes until warmed through and cheese is melty.
Can I Make This Sandwich Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also use some BBQ jackfruit for a fantastic BBQ flavor without the meat!
