This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a warm and cheesy treat! Imagine perfectly grilled bread stuffed with tender BBQ chicken and gooey cheese. It’s comfort food at its best!
Making this is as fun as eating it. You just mix and grill—easy peasy! I love having it with a side of crispy pickles for that perfect crunch. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: You can use any bread you like. Sourdough adds a nice tang, while white bread is classic and soft. Whole grain bread is also a great option for more fiber. If gluten-free is a priority, go for gluten-free bread!
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is perfect for this. If you don’t have any, leftover cooked chicken or turkey works too. For a vegetarian option, consider using shredded jackfruit or a mixture of your favorite veggies.
BBQ Sauce: You can adjust the amount based on how saucy you want it. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a homemade BBQ sauce or even a spicy or tangy dressing. Sweet and smoky or mustard-based are great variations to try out!
Cheese: Mozzarella provides that gooey texture. Cheddar adds flavor, but you could easily switch it for gouda, pepper jack, or any other melty cheese you love. Fresh mozzarella works too for a different taste!
Butter: Butter gives a nice rich flavor, but you can substitute it with olive oil or a plant-based butter for a lighter option.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Grilled Cheese?
Getting that golden and crispy grilled cheese can be tricky but definitely worth it! Here’s how to make sure it turns out just right:
- Start with medium heat, which helps the cheese melt without burning the bread.
- Don’t rush flipping the sandwich; let it sit for about 3-5 minutes on each side until brown.
- If the bread is browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to allow the inside to cook through.
- Apply butter all the way to the edges of the bread for a nice, even crisp.
Following these tips will help you make a delicious grilled cheese every time! Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice, like sourdough or white)
- ½ cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing the chicken and BBQ sauce, then assemble the sandwich and grill it to crispy perfection. Simple and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Mix well until the chicken is fully coated in the sauce. This will give the sandwich a delicious flavor!
2. Heat Your Skillet:
Place a skillet on the stove and heat it over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt, coating the bottom of the pan. This will help achieve that golden brown crust on your bread.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
Once the butter is melted, place one slice of bread in the skillet. On top of that slice, layer half of the mozzarella cheese. Then, add the BBQ chicken mixture, followed by the optional cheddar cheese. Top it all off with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
4. Complete the Sandwich:
Finally, place the second slice of bread on top to close the sandwich. Press down gently to help it all stick together.
5. Cook the Sandwich:
Cook the sandwich in the skillet for about 3-5 minutes, or until the bottom slice is golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully flip the sandwich over. Add the remaining butter around the edges of the bread for extra richness.
6. Final Cooking:
Continue cooking on the second side for another 3-5 minutes until it’s golden brown and the cheese has melted completely. Keep an eye on it so it does not burn!
7. Slice and Serve:
Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool slightly before slicing it in half. This helps keep the cheese from spilling out!
8. Garnish:
If you’d like, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the BBQ sauce—no need to cook it again before adding it to the sandwich!
What Bread Works Best for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
You can use any bread you like! Sourdough and white bread are great options, but you could also try whole grain, brioche, or even gluten-free bread for a tasty twist. Just ensure that it can hold up to the filling without getting soggy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy again, or pop it in the toaster oven for a similar effect!
Can I Adjust the Cheese Types?
Definitely! While mozzarella and cheddar are a great combo, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a rich, smoky flavor. Just adjust the amounts according to your taste preference!
