Nothing says comfort food quite like a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. But when you add smoky BBQ chicken into the mix, this classic transforms into a bold, mouthwatering masterpiece. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or even as a way to use up leftover chicken, the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich hits all the right notes. The combination of tangy BBQ sauce, tender chicken, melty cheese, and crispy, buttery bread makes this sandwich utterly irresistible.
Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward, quick to prepare, and absolutely delicious. Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy this ultimate twist on a traditional favorite BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich!
Ingredients
For the BBQ Chicken:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover works great)
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices of bread (sourdough, Texas toast, or your favorite sturdy bread)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for the perfect melt)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- Optional toppings: thinly sliced red onions, pickled jalapeños, or fresh cilantro.
Instructions
1: Prepare the BBQ Chicken
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Mix until the chicken is well coated. Taste and adjust the sauce as needed—you want a balance of smoky and tangy. Set aside.
2: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Lay out 4 slices of bread. Spread an even layer of shredded cheese on each slice.
- Add a generous portion of BBQ chicken on top of the cheese. If desired, add a few slices of red onion or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle more cheese on top of the chicken, then place another slice of bread over the filling. Press down gently to secure the layers.
3: Butter the Bread
- Spread softened butter on the outside of each slice of bread. Make sure to coat evenly for that golden, crispy texture.
4: Cook the Sandwiches
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, place the sandwiches in the skillet, buttered side down.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes on one side, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
- Flip the sandwiches carefully and cook for another 3–4 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese has melted.
5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for 1–2 minutes before slicing in half. Serve immediately with a side of coleslaw, potato chips, or a pickle spear.
Tips
- Cheese Matters: Use a blend of cheeses for optimal gooeyness and flavor. Mozzarella melts beautifully, while cheddar adds sharpness.
- Low and Slow: Cook the sandwiches over medium heat to allow the cheese to melt fully without burning the bread.
- Customize the BBQ Sauce: Add a splash of hot sauce, honey, or smoked paprika to your BBQ sauce to personalize the flavor.
- Experiment with Bread: While sourdough and Texas toast are classics, rye or multigrain bread can add a unique twist.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers:
If you have any leftover BBQ chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s great for salads, wraps, or another round of sandwiches!
Pre-made Sandwiches:
Store assembled but uncooked sandwiches in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, cook as instructed.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for jackfruit or grilled veggies like zucchini and bell peppers.
- Pulled Pork Alternative: Substitute BBQ pulled pork for the chicken for a different but equally delicious flavor.
- Avocado Upgrade: Add fresh avocado slices or a smear of guacamole before cooking for a creamy contrast.
- Breakfast Twist: Add a fried egg and some crispy bacon for a hearty breakfast sandwich.
Nutrition Details
Serving size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella are excellent choices, feel free to experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for unique flavors.
Can I grill these sandwiches instead of using a skillet?
Yes! Use a panini press or grill for a more even cook and those enticing grill marks.
What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe?
A smoky, slightly sweet BBQ sauce works best. Brands like Sweet Baby Ray’s or Stubbs are excellent choices, or you can make your own.
Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?
Of course! Simply use gluten-free bread and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat sandwiches in a skillet over low heat to preserve crispness, or use an air fryer for 2–3 minutes. Avoid the microwave as it can make the bread soggy.
Enjoy every bite of this flavorful, melty BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your cravings and impress your family or guests!