This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a fun and tasty twist on a classic sandwich. It combines juicy BBQ chicken with gooey cheese, all snugly grilled between two golden slices of bread.
If you’re like me, this sandwich is a go-to for lunch or a quick dinner. Pair it with some crispy fries, and you’re in for a treat—comfort food at its best! 🥪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: You can use any bread you like! Sourdough adds a nice tang, while whole wheat gives a hearty feel. White bread is classic for grilled cheese. If gluten-free is needed, many gluten-free breads work wonderfully too!
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for ease, but you can use any cooked chicken. Leftovers or even canned chicken will work if you’re in a pinch.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand for convenience. Homemade BBQ sauce adds a personal touch. For a tangier flavor, try using a vinegar-based sauce.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that gooey texture, while cheddar adds sharpness. Feel free to swap the cheddar for Pepper Jack for a kick, or use a dairy-free option if needed!
Butter: While butter adds great flavor, you can use olive oil or a dairy-free margarine for cooking if you prefer.
How Do I Ensure the Cheese Melts Perfectly in My Grilled Cheese?
Getting the cheese melty and the bread crispy is key! Here are some tips:
- Use low to medium heat to ensure even cooking. High heat may burn the bread before the cheese melts.
- Don’t skimp on the cheese. More cheese means a gooey, satisfying bite!
- Cover the skillet with a lid during cooking. This helps trap heat and melt the cheese faster.
Let the sandwich rest for a minute after cooking. This allows the melted cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut and eat!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice, e.g., sourdough, white, or whole wheat)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for any time of the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken Mixture:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Stir it well until the chicken is completely coated. This will add a delicious flavor to your sandwich!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Take a skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt, ensuring it coats the bottom of the pan nicely. This will give your sandwich a crispy golden crust.
3. Build Your Sandwich:
Place one slice of bread in the skillet. Then, layer half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of the bread. This cheesy goodness will help hold everything together!
4. Add the BBQ Chicken:
Spread the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the cheese layer, making sure to cover it well. This is where the flavor comes alive!
5. Top with More Cheese:
Add the remaining cheese on top of the BBQ chicken. Finally, place the second slice of bread on top to complete your sandwich.
6. Cook the First Side:
Cook the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom slice of bread is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
7. Flip the Sandwich:
Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula. Now, add the last tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt as you cook the other side.
8. Cook the Second Side:
Let the sandwich cook for another 3-4 minutes until the second slice is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. Yum!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool slightly. Then, cut it in half, garnish with chopped parsley if you like, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese! You deserve it!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar work wonderfully together, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor. Just be mindful of the melting properties of the cheese you choose!
What Can I Substitute for the Chicken?
If you don’t have shredded chicken on hand, you can substitute it with shredded rotisserie chicken or even canned chicken. For a vegetarian option, try using a mixture of sautéed vegetables or grilled portobello mushrooms coated in BBQ sauce!
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over medium-low heat, covering it with a lid to ensure the cheese melts evenly without burning the bread.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply build your sandwich as described and grill it up for a quick and delicious meal!
