Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with this mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese! This isn’t your ordinary grilled cheese—it’s a delicious fusion that combines the smoky sweetness of barbecue chicken with the gooey comfort of melted cheese, all pressed between perfectly toasted bread.
Perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend lunch, this sandwich transforms leftover chicken into something extraordinary. The combination of tangy barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This
- Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners
- Great way to repurpose leftover chicken into something exciting
- Customizable with different cheeses and BBQ sauce flavors to suit your taste
- Kid-friendly but sophisticated enough for adults to enjoy
- Crispy on the outside, gooey and flavorful on the inside
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, plus extra for drizzling if desired
- 8 slices of bread (sourdough recommended)
- 8 slices of cheddar cheese (or mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
- Optional toppings: pickled jalapeños, cilantro
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well combined. Add more sauce if you prefer a saucier sandwich.
- Lay out 4 slices of bread. On each slice, place one slice of cheese, a quarter of the BBQ chicken mixture, some red onion slices, optional toppings if using, and another slice of cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices.
- Spread butter on the outside of each sandwich, making sure both the top and bottom slices are buttered.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet (butter side down) and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes, pressing down gently to ensure even cooking and melty cheese.
- Let sandwiches rest for a minute before cutting in half. Serve immediately, with extra BBQ sauce for drizzling if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a thin layer of barbecue sauce to the inside of the bread before assembling.
- Try different cheese combinations like pepper jack for spice or smoked gouda for more depth.
- Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Make it a BBQ chicken grilled cheese melt by adding sliced tomatoes and avocado.
- For a crispy exterior, sprinkle a little grated parmesan cheese on the buttered sides of the bread.
- Cook low and slow to ensure the cheese melts completely before the bread gets too dark.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these indulgent sandwiches with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a light mixed green salad to balance the richness. A small bowl of coleslaw also makes a perfect accompaniment, adding freshness and crunch to complement the smoky, cheesy sandwich.
For a complete meal, pair with a cup of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food combination that’s perfect for dipping!
Notes
- Store any leftover assembled (but uncooked) sandwiches wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- The sandwich is done when the cheese is completely melted and the bread is golden brown and crispy.
- Pat chicken dry before mixing with barbecue sauce to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves preparation time. Simply shred it and mix with the barbecue sauce.
What’s the best type of bread to use?
Sourdough works wonderfully because it holds up well to grilling, but any sturdy bread like Texas toast, ciabatta, or artisan white bread will work great.
Can I make these ahead of time for a party?
You can prepare the chicken mixture and slice the onions ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and cook the sandwiches just before serving for maximum crispiness.
How do I prevent my sandwich from getting soggy?
Make sure your chicken isn’t too wet with sauce, and cook the sandwiches on medium heat right after assembling. The butter on the outside creates a barrier that helps keep moisture inside.
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