This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a tasty twist on a classic favorite! Imagine gooey cheese, tender chicken, and sweet BBQ sauce all melted between two crispy slices of bread.
It’s the ultimate comfort food! I love to make it for lunch, and my kids devour it like there’s no tomorrow. Pair it with some chips, and you’re all set for a delicious meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Choose your favorite type! Sourdough gives a nice tang, while whole wheat adds a nutty flavor. If you’re short on options, classic white bread works too! For a gluten-free option, try gluten-free bread.
Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken is perfect for this recipe. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut! If you’re vegetarian, swap it out for grilled vegetables or a meat substitute like jackfruit for a fun twist.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce to adjust the flavor. Want less sugar? Go for a homemade version or a sugar-free brand. You can also try a hot sauce or wing sauce if you like it spicy!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella makes it gooey! Try a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor. Vegan cheese can be a good substitute if you need a dairy-free option. Just make sure it melts well!
How Do I Make Sure My Grilled Cheese is Perfectly Crispy?
To get that golden, crispy exterior, follow these tips. First, make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the sandwich. You want the butter to bubble slightly when it hits the pan—that’s the sweet spot!
- Use enough butter! Spread it on the outside of the bread for an even coat.
- Cook on medium heat. A too-high temperature burns the bread before the cheese melts.
- Give it a good 3-5 minutes on each side without rushing. Keep an eye on it for that perfect golden brown!
Let your grilled cheese rest for a minute before cutting. This helps keep the cheese from spilling out and makes for a better presentation!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice: sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1-2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sliced onions or pickles for additional flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese will take about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until the chicken is fully coated. This will add wonderful flavor to your grilled cheese. Set this mixture aside while you get the skillet ready.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a skillet on the stove over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Let it melt and heat up while you assemble your sandwich.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
On a clean surface, lay out one slice of bread. Spread an even layer of the BBQ chicken mixture over the bread. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top of the chicken, followed by the second slice of bread to finish your sandwich.
4. Cook the Sandwich:
Once the butter is melted, carefully place the assembled sandwich into the skillet. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the bottom slice of bread is golden brown and crispy.
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the sandwich over using a spatula. If needed, add a little more butter to the skillet for extra flavor. Cook the second side for another 3-5 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and the cheese inside is melted.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it rest for about a minute. This helps the cheese settle a bit. If you like, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a nice touch!
7. Cut and Serve:
Slice the sandwich in half and serve it warm. Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese with optional toppings like sliced onions or pickles for an extra burst of flavor!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the BBQ sauce as directed. This will give your grilled cheese even more flavor!
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you don’t have BBQ sauce, try using a mix of ketchup and a splash of vinegar for a tangy substitute, or use a homemade BBQ blend with tomato sauce, brown sugar, and spices if you prefer. Just adjust to your taste!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can reheat it in a skillet over low heat to retain its crispy texture or in the microwave if you’re short on time (it might get a bit soft but still delicious!).
Can I Add More Veggies to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add sliced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just make sure to sauté any raw veggies first to soften them up and avoid excess moisture in your sandwich!
