If you’re craving a comforting sandwich that combines smoky, tangy, and melty goodness all in one bite, this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe is here to steal your heart. Imagine tender shredded chicken, drenched in rich BBQ sauce, layered between crispy, buttery bread and ooey-gooey melted cheese—it’s the perfect way to elevate your classic grilled cheese to something truly unforgettable and wildly satisfying. Trust me, once you try this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe, it might just become your new go-to for quick dinners or lazy weekend lunches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering texture and flavor harmony. Every component is easy to find, yet together they create an irresistible sandwich experience.
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded: Using shredded chicken provides a tender and hearty protein base that comfortably holds the BBQ sauce.
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce: Adds that perfect smoky sweetness which defines the whole sandwich.
- 8 slices of bread: Your choice of bread can change the sandwich from soft to crunchy; a sturdier bread works best for holding all the fillings.
- 4 tbsp butter, softened: Buttering the bread creates that irresistible golden crust and rich flavor when grilled.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend): Cheese provides that creamy, melty texture that brings everything together.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional): Adds a subtle sharpness and crunch, balancing the richness.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional): A fresh, herbal note that lightens and brightens each bite.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Combine the chicken and BBQ sauce
Begin by tossing your shredded chicken in the BBQ sauce until every strand is beautifully coated. This mix forms the flavorful, juicy heart of the sandwich, giving each bite that signature smoky and tangy punch you crave.
Step 2: Butter the bread slices
Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread. This simple step is key to achieving a perfectly crisp and golden grilled cheese exterior that’s full of buttery goodness.
Step 3: Heat your skillet
Warm a large skillet or griddle over medium heat—getting it just right ensures even cooking, allowing the cheese to melt gradually while the bread crisps up beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble the sandwiches
Place a buttered slice of bread, butter side down, onto the skillet. Layer with ¼ cup of shredded cheese, then evenly add ¼ cup of the BBQ chicken mixture. If you’re using red onions and cilantro, sprinkle some on now. Top it with another ¼ cup of cheese to lock in gooeyness before placing the second buttered slice of bread on top, butter side up.
Step 5: Grill until golden and melty
Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese starts melting. Then, carefully flip your sandwich and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and perfectly melty throughout.
Step 6: Repeat and serve
Make sure to repeat the process with remaining ingredients so everyone gets their share of this tasty delight. Serve hot for the ultimate BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe experience that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To take your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe to the next level, add fresh chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of thinly sliced red onions on the side. These garnishes provide a refreshing contrast and a vibrant splash of color that makes the sandwich pop visually and taste-wise.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs beautifully with classic sides like crispy fries, tangy coleslaw, or even a light garden salad to balance out the richness and add some variety to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your sandwich diagonally for that elegant grilled cheese triangle look, or try stacking a couple together for a fun finger-food party platter. Serving with dipping sauces like ranch or a smoky chipotle mayo can also bring extra depth to each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh while preserving the flavors and textures nicely.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the sandwiches individually by wrapping them in parchment paper and then foil or plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 1 month, ensuring you have a quick, delicious meal ready whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
Reheat your sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is melted and the bread is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful grilled crust intact.
FAQs
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe and even adds extra flavor since it’s already seasoned and tender.
What cheese works best for this sandwich?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices for their meltability and flavor, but feel free to experiment with a blend or even pepper jack for a little kick.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can swap out the chicken for grilled vegetables or plant-based meat alternatives paired with BBQ sauce to create a delicious vegetarian version.
Is it necessary to butter both sides of the bread?
Yes, buttering both sides helps achieve the evenly golden and crispy exterior that makes this grilled cheese extra special and satisfying.
How spicy is the sandwich?
The spice level depends on the BBQ sauce you use; choose a mild sauce for sweetness or a spicier variety to add some heat according to your taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so comforting about a warm, cheesy grilled sandwich that bursts with BBQ chicken flavor. I hope this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe inspires you to bring a little extra joy to your mealtime. It’s easy, quick, and downright delicious—perfect for when you want a hearty meal without any fuss. Give it a try and get ready to fall in love with a new favorite!
Print
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a quick and delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, combining tender shredded chicken coated in tangy barbecue sauce with melted cheese and optional fresh toppings. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
Sandwich
- 8 slices of bread
- 4 tbsp butter, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken Mixture: In a bowl, mix the shredded cooked chicken with the BBQ sauce until the chicken is thoroughly coated with the sauce, creating a flavorful filling.
- Butter Bread: Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread; this will help achieve the golden, crispy exterior when cooking.
- Heat Skillet: Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat to ensure the sandwiches cook evenly and the cheese melts properly.
- Assemble Sandwich: Place a buttered slice of bread, butter side down, on the skillet. Layer 1/4 cup of shredded cheese, followed by 1/4 cup of the BBQ chicken mixture, optional thin slices of red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro. Top with another 1/4 cup of shredded cheese to help the sandwich bind together.
- Top Bread: Place another slice of bread on top with the buttered side facing up to complete the sandwich.
- Cook First Side: Let the sandwich cook until the bottom bread slice turns golden brown and the cheese begins to melt, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step creates a crispy crust and starts the cheese melting process.
- Flip and Cook Second Side: Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes until it is golden brown and the cheese inside is fully melted.
- Repeat and Serve: Prepare the remaining sandwiches similarly, then serve hot and enjoy the melty, savory BBQ chicken grilled cheese sandwiches.
Notes
- Use your favorite type of bread for best results; thicker slices hold the filling better.
- For extra flavor, try adding a slice of tomato or pickles inside the sandwich.
- Cooking on medium heat is important to allow the cheese to melt without burning the bread.
- Leftover sandwiches can be refrigerated and reheated in a skillet or sandwich press.
