This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food! Juicy chicken mixed with tangy BBQ sauce is melted between two slices of gooey cheese and crispy bread.
Honestly, it’s like a hug in sandwich form! I love making these for a quick dinner, and they disappear in seconds. Pair it with some chips, and you’re all set! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I recommend using sourdough or Texas toast for this recipe. They create a nice, crispy crust. However, feel free to swap for whole wheat, gluten-free, or even a hoagie roll if that’s what you have.
Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken is key. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, you can replace it with shredded jackfruit or sautéed mushrooms for a similar texture.
BBQ Sauce: Pick your favorite brand! You can also make your own or use a sugar-free version if you’re watching your intake. Try a smoky or spicy variety for that extra flavor kick.
Cheese: I use a mix of mozzarella for meltiness and cheddar for flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant, try dairy-free cheese. For a twist, add pepper jack for some heat!
Butter: Butter gives a fantastic color and flavor to the bread. If you want a healthier option, you can use olive oil instead, but butter is hard to beat for taste.
How Can I Get the Perfect Grilled Cheese Without Burning It?
Getting that golden-brown crust while keeping the inside gooey can be tricky! Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect grilled cheese every time:
- Use medium heat to avoid burning the bread while the cheese melts.
- Butter the bread well to create a crispy texture. Don’t skimp on the butter, but ensure it’s evenly spread.
- Keep an eye on the sandwich; cooking times may vary based on your stove. If you notice it’s browning too fast, lower the heat.
- Press down slightly on the sandwich with a spatula during cooking. This helps all the ingredients meld together.
Following these steps will ensure your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese turns out perfectly every time! Enjoy your warm, cheesy delight!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice, like sourdough or Texas toast)
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese will take you about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a satisfying meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken Mixture:
Start by taking a bowl and combining the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Mix it well to make sure every bit of chicken is coated with the sauce. This tasty mixture will be the star of your grilled cheese!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Now, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. This will ensure that your sandwich cooks evenly and gets that perfect crispy crust.
3. Butter the Bread:
While your skillet is heating up, take the butter and spread it on one side of each slice of bread. This buttered side will help your sandwich achieve a golden and crunchy finish.
4. Assemble the Sandwich:
Once the skillet is hot, place one slice of bread, buttered side down, onto the skillet. Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the bread slice. Next, spoon the BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese, spreading it out evenly. If you’re using cheddar cheese, layer it on top of the BBQ chicken for an extra cheesy flavor.
5. Cook the Sandwich:
Take the second slice of bread and place it on top, buttered side up. Cook the sandwich for about 3-5 minutes, or until the bottom slice is golden brown and crunchy. Now, carefully flip the sandwich with a spatula and cook the other side for another 3-5 minutes, until it’s also golden brown and the cheese is melted throughout.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once both sides are crispy and the cheese is gooey, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. If you’d like, garnish it with some fresh parsley before slicing. Serve it warm and enjoy your tasty BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the amount you need and mix it with the BBQ sauce. It adds flavor and keeps your prep quick and easy!
What Type of Bread Works Best for This Recipe?
You can use any bread you like, but thicker options such as sourdough or Texas toast work best. They hold up well to the fillings and provide a nice crunch when grilled. Just make sure the slices are thick enough to prevent sogginess!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, wrap the grilled cheese sandwich tightly in foil or cling wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, it’s best to use a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness, rather than a microwave, which can make the bread soggy.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your sandwich by adding ingredients like sautéed onions, jalapeños, or even coleslaw for extra crunch. Just be mindful of how much you add so the sandwich doesn’t become too bulky to grill properly!
