This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on the classic sandwich! Juicy pulled chicken mixed with tangy BBQ sauce gets melted cheese on crispy bread—yum!
Pair it with your favorite side for a perfect meal. Honestly, I can’t resist a good cheesy bite. It’s like a hug in sandwich form! 🥪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Sourdough adds a nice tang, but white or a hearty whole grain works too! If you want gluten-free, opt for gluten-free bread without losing the delicious crunch.
Shredded Chicken: Cooked chicken is best, but you can use leftover rotisserie or even swap it with shredded turkey or jackfruit for a fun vegetarian twist.
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce is perfect! For a creamy twist, try mixing in a bit of ranch dressing. If you need it less sweet, go for a vinegar-based sauce.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that gooey texture. I love adding sharp cheddar for flavor, but feel free to use pepper jack for a spicy kick or vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Butter: Butter is ideal for that golden crust, but you can use olive oil or vegan butter if you want a healthier or dairy-free option.
How Do You Make Sure the Cheese Melts Perfectly?
To melt cheese just right, temperature control is key! Start with medium heat and don’t rush the process. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet slowly so the bread can brown evenly while allowing the cheese inside to melt.
- Press down gently after assembling your sandwich, which helps the heat distribute.
- For the best melt, cover the skillet with a lid for a minute. This creates steam, helping the cheese get gooey without burning the bread.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice, e.g., sourdough or white)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (choose your favorite)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 8-10 minutes of cooking time. So, in less than 20 minutes, you can have a tasty, gooey sandwich ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce. Mix well so that all the chicken is fully coated with the sauce. Taste it and add salt and pepper as needed for extra flavor.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Put a non-stick skillet on medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Let it melt and get nice and bubbly, which is perfect for toasting the bread.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
Take one slice of bread and spread half of the barbecue chicken mixture on top. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over it, and if you like, add some sharp cheddar cheese too. Place the second slice of bread on top to finish your sandwich.
4. Cook the First Side:
Gently press the sandwich down with your hand or a spatula. Cook it in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese is starting to melt.
5. Flip and Cook the Other Side:
Carefully flip the sandwich over. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet, letting it melt around the sandwich. Cook the other side for about another 3-4 minutes, until it’s golden brown and the cheese is gooey.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the sandwich out of the skillet and let it cool for just a moment. Cut it in half, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken can save you time and effort. Just shred the meat and mix it with the barbecue sauce, and you’re good to go!
What Type of Bread Works Best for This Recipe?
While sourdough and white bread are great choices, you can also use whole wheat, brioche, or even gluten-free bread if needed. Just make sure the bread can hold up to the fillings without getting too soggy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, or eat as a cold sandwich—still delicious!
Can I Make This Sandwich Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the shredded chicken with your favorite grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, and mix them with BBQ sauce for a tasty vegetarian option. Enjoy the same cheesy goodness!
