BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a hearty, flavor-packed sandwich that combines tender, smoky BBQ chicken with gooey melted cheese and crispy, golden bread. It’s the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and cheesy goodness, making it a go-to for lunch, dinner, or even a satisfying snack.
Whether you have leftover chicken or are starting fresh, this recipe is quick and easy to whip up. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable with your favorite BBQ sauce and cheese combinations. If you’re a fan of comfort food with a little smoky flair, you’re in for a treat!
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole grain)
- ½ cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce (use your favorite!)
- 2 slices of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda work great)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
- Optional toppings: thinly sliced red onion, pickles, or jalapeños
Directions:
- In a small bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until fully coated.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Spread the softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, onto the skillet. Layer with one slice of cheese, the BBQ chicken mixture, and the second slice of cheese. Top with the other slice of bread, buttered side up.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the skillet, slice in half, and serve immediately.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
20 minutes
Nutrition (Per Sandwich, Approximate):
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
Expert Tips:
- For an extra smoky flavor, use smoked cheese or add a touch of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.
- Use a panini press for evenly crispy bread and melty cheese.
- Toast the bread lightly before assembling for added crunch.
- If using leftover chicken, heat it up slightly before adding to the sandwich to ensure even cooking.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken? Yes! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.
What’s the best cheese to use? Cheddar is classic, but gouda, pepper jack, or a combination of cheeses work beautifully for added flavor.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the chicken mixture and assemble the sandwich when ready to cook.
Storing & Reheating:
If you have leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat on a skillet over low heat until warmed through and crispy.
Substitutions & Variations:
- Swap chicken for pulled turkey or plant-based shredded chicken for a vegetarian option.
- Use gluten-free bread if needed.
- Add extra layers of flavor with caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms.
- Drizzle a little ranch or chipotle mayo inside for a creamy touch.
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Equipment
- Large skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- - Cutting board
- - Knife
- - Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- - 2 slices of bread sourdough, white, or whole grain
- - ½ cup cooked chicken shredded
- - 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce use your favorite!
- - 2 slices of cheese cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda work great
- - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter softened
- - Optional toppings: thinly sliced red onion pickles, or jalapeños
Instructions
- In a small bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until fully coated.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Spread the softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, onto the skillet. Layer with one slice of cheese, the BBQ chicken mixture, and the second slice of cheese. Top with the other slice of bread, buttered side up.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the skillet, slice in half, and serve immediately.
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