This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is the best of comfort food all in one bite! With juicy chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and ooey-gooey cheese, it’s super tasty and filling.
I love turning leftovers into something special like this! It’s easy to whip up, and trust me, you’ll want to make it again and again. Perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Choose your favorite type of bread! Sourdough gives a crisp texture, while whole grain adds a nutty flavor. You could even use gluten-free bread if needed.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to since it’s easy and flavorful. If you don’t have chicken, canned chicken works too, or you could use roasted jackfruit for a vegetarian twist.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for a personalized flavor profile. If you’re looking for something lower in sugar, try a homemade or sugar-free BBQ sauce. You’re in control!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic for a grilled cheese, but mixing in mozzarella can give that delightful stretch. Feel free to use vegan cheese for dairy-free options.
Butter: For a healthier option, you can use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute to toast your bread.
How Can I Ensure My Grilled Cheese is Golden Brown and Delicious?
The key to a perfectly grilled cheese lies in the heat and timing. It’s important to monitor the skillet temperature closely. Here are my tips:
- Start with medium heat. If it’s too high, the bread will burn before the cheese melts.
- Butter both sides of the bread for even browning. A little extra butter can enhance flavor!
- Give the sandwich enough time on each side. The cheese needs a few minutes to fully melt. Don’t rush it!
- Use a heavy skillet or press down lightly with a spatula for even cooking.
With these simple tricks, you’ll get a perfectly crispy, gooey grilled cheese every time!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice, e.g., sourdough, white, or whole grain)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 2 tablespoons butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 10 minutes to prepare this delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese. It’s quick and easy! Just a few minutes to mix the chicken and BBQ sauce, grill your sandwich, and soon you’ll be enjoying a cheesy treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Mix everything together until the chicken is well coated in the tasty sauce. This will give your sandwich loads of flavor!
2. Butter the Bread:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. While the skillet gets warm, butter one side of each slice of bread. This will help your sandwich become golden and crispy!
3. Build Your Sandwich:
Place one slice of bread, butter side down, in the heated skillet. Top it with half of the shredded cheese, then spread the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the chicken.
4. Close and Grill the Sandwich:
Put the second slice of bread on top, butter side up. Grill the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on one side until it turns golden brown. Carefully flip it using a spatula to cook the other side.
5. Finish Cooking:
Cook the sandwich for another 3-4 minutes, or until the other side is also golden brown and the cheese is nicely melted. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the sandwich is done, remove it from the skillet and let it cool slightly. Cut it in half, garnish with chopped parsley if you’d like, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Any Type of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any bread you like, such as sourdough, whole grain, or even a gluten-free option. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the fillings and provide a nice crunch when grilled.
What Can I Substitute for Cooked Chicken?
If you don’t have cooked chicken, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken or even canned chicken as a quick alternative. For a vegetarian option, consider using grilled vegetables or shredded jackfruit mixed with some BBQ sauce to mimic the chicken.
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 2 days. When you’re ready to make the sandwiches, just assemble and grill as usual. This will save you time on busy days!
How to Store Leftover Sandwiches
If you have leftovers, wrap the grilled cheese sandwich in foil or place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best eaten within 1-2 days. To reheat, you can grill it again in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side or pop it in the oven wrapped in foil.
