This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a tasty twist on a classic! Crunchy bread is filled with juicy BBQ chicken and melted cheese, making every bite exciting and delicious.
Who wouldn’t love gooey, cheesy goodness combined with smoky BBQ flavors? I like to serve it with a side of crunchy pickles for that extra zing. It’s a hit every time! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Pre-cooked chicken works great for this recipe. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or leftover chicken from other meals. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using jackfruit or tofu mixed with BBQ sauce!
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for flavor. Sweet, tangy, or smoky – your choice! If you prefer a homemade version, mix ketchup with a splash of vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. This way, you can control the sweetness and tanginess.
Bread: Sourdough adds a nice texture, but feel free to use any bread you like! Whole grain, brioche, or even gluten-free bread will work. Just consider how toasting might change the final texture.
Cheese: Mozzarella and cheddar are classic choices here. For a twist, try pepper jack for some heat or gouda for a smoky flavor. Vegan cheese is also available for a dairy-free option!
Butter: Butter gives a lovely golden crust. You can substitute with olive oil or vegan butter if you’re looking for a healthier or dairy-free alternative.
How Do I Get Perfectly Melted Cheese in My Grilled Cheese Sandwich?
Getting that cheese to melt perfectly can be tricky! Here’s how to ensure your cheese is gooey and delicious:
- Use shredded cheese; it melts faster than slices.
- Cook on low to medium heat. This gives the cheese time to melt without burning the bread.
- Don’t rush flipping the sandwich! Wait until the bottom is golden brown before turning it over.
- If you like, cover the skillet with a lid after placing the sandwich to help trap heat and melt the cheese quicker.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a wonderful BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese that’s cheesy and satisfying every time!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough or your preference)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
In a medium bowl, take your shredded chicken and mix it well with the BBQ sauce. Make sure every piece of chicken is coated, and then add salt and pepper to suit your taste.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a skillet on the stove over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Let it melt while you prepare the sandwiches.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Take two slices of your chosen bread and cover the top of each with a layer of mozzarella cheese. Then, share the BBQ chicken mixture evenly on top of the cheese. Finally, sprinkle a layer of cheddar cheese over the chicken and cover it with another slice of bread to complete the sandwich.
4. Cook the Sandwich:
Once your skillet is ready, carefully place the sandwiches in the skillet. Cook them for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is a lovely golden brown and the cheese starts to melt. Then, flip the sandwich over gently.
5. Finish Cooking:
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Cook the other side of the sandwich for another 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and the cheese is wonderfully melted.
6. Serve Up Your Creation:
Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it rest for a minute to cool. Slice it in half, garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and enjoy your warm, gooey BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the BBQ sauce. It will add nice flavor and keep your preparation time minimal!
What Can I Use Instead of Mozzarella?
If you don’t have mozzarella on hand, feel free to substitute it with provolone or gouda. Both will melt well and add a delicious flavor to your grilled cheese!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, which will also restore some of that crispy texture.
Can I Make This Sandwich Vegetarian?
Sure! You can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, and use your favorite BBQ sauce. This vegetarian version will also be delicious and satisfying!
