This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on your classic sandwich! You get tender BBQ chicken, gooey cheese, and crispy bread all in one bite—yum!
What’s even better? It’s super quick to make! I love whipping this up when I want a tasty meal without much fuss. Grab your favorite BBQ sauce, and you’re set! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I love using sourdough for its chewy texture and tangy flavor, but Texas toast is great too. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free bread if you need alternatives. Just pick a bread that can hold up to all that cheesy goodness!
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken makes this recipe super easy. If you don’t have cooked chicken, any leftover cooked chicken works. For a vegetarian option, try using shredded jackfruit mixed with BBQ sauce for a similar texture.
BBQ Sauce: I usually go for a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using a low-sugar BBQ sauce or even a homemade version. Hot sauce can also be a fun twist if you like some heat!
Cheese: Mozzarella provides that gooey melt, while cheddar adds flavor. Feel free to substitute with any cheese you love—like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick. Avoid soft cheeses as they won’t melt nicely like the others.
How Can I Ensure My Grilled Cheese Is Perfectly Golden Brown?
The key to a perfectly golden brown grilled cheese is all about temperature and patience. Here’s a clear game plan:
- Heat your skillet to medium, not high. A lower temperature helps the cheese melt without burning the bread.
- Use enough butter! Spread it on the outside of the bread or melt it in the pan. This creates that lovely crispy crust.
- Cook the first side until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Don’t rush this; let it cook undisturbed for a bit.
- When flipping, do it gently. Use a spatula to assist and minimize cheese spillage.
- Add a bit more butter for the second side as you flip. This will help the bread brown evenly.
By following these tips, you’ll have a grilled cheese that’s melty inside with a deliciously crispy outside! Enjoy the cheesy goodness!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice, such as sourdough or Texas toast)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
Start by placing your shredded chicken in a bowl. Pour in the BBQ sauce and mix everything together until the chicken is well coated. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little salt and pepper for extra flavor, and give it another quick mix.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Next, take a skillet and set it over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt. This will be the base for your grilled cheese, giving it that lovely golden crust.
3. Build Your Sandwich:
Once the butter is melted, place one slice of bread in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top of the bread, then add the BBQ chicken mixture. Then, layer on the remaining mozzarella and the cheddar cheese. Finally, place the second slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich.
4. Cook the Sandwich:
Let the sandwich cook until the bottom slice of bread turns a lovely golden brown, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once it’s ready, carefully flip the sandwich over. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet to ensure the second side gets nice and crispy.
5. Finish Cooking:
Continue cooking the other side for another 3-4 minutes, or until it’s also golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
6. Serve It Up:
Once the sandwich is cooked to perfection, remove it from the skillet and let it cool for just a minute. Cut the sandwich in half, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for a pop of color, and enjoy it while warm!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can use any bread you like. Sourdough, Texas toast, whole wheat, or even a gluten-free bread work well. Just remember to adjust cooking time if you’re using a thicker or denser bread.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can swap the chicken for shredded jackfruit or even grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Mix these with the BBQ sauce for a similar flavor profile!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat to preserve the crispiness of the bread, adding a little more butter if necessary!
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture ahead of time! Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready, simply assemble the sandwich and grill it fresh for the best taste and texture.
