This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich is like a warm hug in a bite! With tender BBQ chicken and gooey cheese, it’s perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner.
Honestly, who can resist melty cheese? I love how easy this is to whip up. Just grill it until golden and enjoy with crispy fries or a salad. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken in a pinch. If you’re a vegetarian, try replacing it with a mix of roasted veggies or jackfruit simmered in BBQ sauce.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought barbeque sauce, or make your own with ketchup, vinegar, and spices. For a kick, you can add some hot sauce or use a sweet BBQ sauce for a different flavor. If you’re avoiding sugar, check for sugar-free options.
Bread: While I love using sourdough for its flavor and crunch, any sturdy bread will do! Try whole wheat for an earthy taste or gluten-free bread if needed. Just ensure it can hold the weight of the filling.
C cheeses: Mozzarella is melty and mild, but you can switch it up! Cheddar adds a nice sharp flavor, while provolone has a great melt too. A blend of cheeses is always a winner. Just make sure they melt well.
Butter: I use butter for that golden, crispy exterior. If you’re looking for a vegan option, try using vegan butter or olive oil for toasting.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch on My Grilled Cheese?
Crispy and golden bread is key to a great grilled cheese sandwich! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Use a medium heat to prevent burning while allowing the cheese to melt properly.
- Generously butter the outsides of the bread. It helps with browning and adds flavor.
- Keep the sandwiches pressed slightly while cooking to ensure even grilling.
- If the cheese isn’t melting quickly, you can cover the skillet with a lid for a minute. This traps heat and helps it melt.
- Use a non-stick skillet or griddle for easier flipping and to prevent sticking.
With these tips in mind, enjoy your cheesy, BBQ goodness!
Easy BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or grilled chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 4 slices sandwich bread (white, sourdough, or your choice)
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese (or cheddar, provolone, or a mix)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and another 10 minutes to cook. So, in around 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce until the chicken is well coated. Set this mixture aside for a moment while you prepare the sandwiches.
2. Butter the Bread:
Generously butter one side of each slice of bread. This buttery side will be what gets crispy and golden while cooking.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Take two slices of bread and place them butter side down in a skillet or griddle set over medium heat. On each slice, layer one slice of cheese, then spoon on a good amount of the BBQ chicken mixture. Top the chicken with another slice of cheese to create a melty barrier.
4. Complete the Sandwich:
Place the remaining buttered bread slices on top of the sandwiches, butter side up. This will help achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
5. Cook the Sandwiches:
Cook the sandwiches for about 3–4 minutes on one side until that side is golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to press down lightly. Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is melted, which should take another 3–4 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once both sides are golden and the cheese is gooey, remove the sandwiches from the skillet. Let them rest for a minute before slicing them in half. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like, and enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich!
This sandwich is all about that melty cheese and smoky, tangy BBQ chicken — pure comfort food bliss!
FAQ for Easy BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver for this recipe. Just shred the chicken and mix it with BBQ sauce for a quick filling!
What If I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce?
No worries! If you’re out of BBQ sauce, you can easily whip up a quick substitute using ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. Alternatively, this sandwich works well with other sauces like buffalo sauce for a spicy twist!
Can I Make These Sandwiches in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the BBQ chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble and grill the sandwiches. They’re delicious freshly made, but also reheat well!
How Do I Store Leftover Sandwiches?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat for a crispy texture or microwave until warmed through, although the crust won’t be as crunchy.
