This Easy BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a tasty mix of sweet BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese, all grilled between crispy bread. Yum!
I love making these sandwiches for a quick lunch. You just toss in your leftover chicken, and it’s ready in minutes! Perfect for busy days or lazy weekends! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. If you don’t have rotisserie, any cooked chicken works, or you could even use leftover pulled pork for a different flavor!
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own for a personal touch. If you want to try something new, a honey BBQ sauce adds a nice sweetness.
Bread: I love sourdough for its extra flavor and crunch, but white bread or even whole wheat works too. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling!
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a lovely stretch, while provolone adds a bit of sharpness. You can mix in some cheddar for more tang if you like a cheesier flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Grilled Cheese?
Getting that golden, crispy crust on your grilled cheese is all about technique! Here are some tips:
- Always butter the outsides of the bread well. It helps achieve that nice golden color.
- Cook on medium heat. Too high will burn the bread before the cheese melts. Patience is key!
- Press down on the sandwich slightly with a spatula while cooking to help the cheese melt evenly.
And don’t rush the flipping! Allow each side to fully brown, and you’ll have a delicious sandwich!
Easy BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 4 slices of bread (white, sourdough, or your choice)
- 4 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Do You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, so you can enjoy a delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich in just 20 minutes total! Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce together. Make sure the chicken is fully coated with the sauce—this is where the flavor comes from!
2. Butter the Bread:
Generously butter one side of each slice of bread. This will create a crispy, golden crust when grilled. Don’t skimp on the butter!
3. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. You want it hot enough to toast the bread without burning it.
4. Start Assembling:
Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet. Lay a slice of cheese on top, then spoon a generous amount of the BBQ chicken over the cheese. Add another slice of cheese on top of the chicken for extra melty goodness.
5. Top and Cook:
Put the second slice of bread on top, buttered side up. Let it cook for about 4-5 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
6. Flip and Finish:
Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes, until it’s golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the sandwich from the heat, and if you’d like, slice it in half. You can garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
This sandwich blends the smoky, tangy BBQ chicken with melty cheese on crispy bread—perfect for a comfort food treat!
FAQ for Easy BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Can I Use Other Meats Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with shredded pork, turkey, or even beef. Just make sure the meat is cooked and flavorful; BBQ sauce pairs well with various proteins!
How Can I Make This Sandwich Spicier?
If you like a kick, try adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to your BBQ chicken mixture. You can also use a spicier BBQ sauce to amp up the heat!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat to maintain the bread’s crispiness, or use the microwave, though the bread may get soft.
Can I Grill This Sandwich Instead?
Yes! You can grill the sandwich over medium heat on an outdoor grill. Just make sure to wrap it in foil to prevent it from falling apart, and grill until the cheese melts and the bread is toasted to your liking!
