If you’re craving something that perfectly balances smoky, tangy, and melty in every bite, then this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe is about to become your new favorite comfort food. Imagine tender, shredded chicken smothered in rich barbecue sauce tucked inside layers of gooey cheese and perfectly buttered, golden grilled bread. It’s a delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese that brings an exciting burst of flavor and texture with every mouthwatering bite. Whether you need a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this sandwich delivers pure satisfaction and is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to dig in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe are simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in delivering those unbeatable flavors and textures you’re after. From the creamy melted cheese to the tangy BBQ chicken, these components come together to create magic.
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded: The hearty protein base carrying the smoky BBQ flavor that makes this sandwich shine.
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce: Adds that irresistible tangy sweetness and moisture to keep every bite juicy.
- 8 slices of bread: Opt for a sturdy choice like sourdough or white bread to get a golden, crispy outside while holding all the fillings perfectly.
- 4 tbsp butter, softened: Essential for that golden, crispy crust and adds a buttery richness to the sandwich.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend): Melts flawlessly to create that satisfying gooey texture we all crave in a grilled cheese.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional): Adds a subtle crunch and a hint of sharpness to balance out the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional): Brings a fresh, herbal brightness that lifts the flavors to another level.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Combine Chicken and BBQ Sauce
Start with a bowl and mix your shredded cooked chicken with that tangy, smoky BBQ sauce until every piece is well-coated. This mixture is the star of the sandwich, packing bold flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Butter the Bread Slices
Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread. This ensures a crispy, golden-brown finish when grilled, creating that classic grilled cheese crunch we all love.
Step 3: Heat Your Skillet or Griddle
Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. You want it hot enough to melt the cheese gently while getting the bread perfectly toasted; patience here pays off big time!
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
Place one slice of bread butter side down on the skillet. Layer on about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese, then spoon on 1/4 cup of the BBQ chicken mixture. If you’re including red onion slices and fresh cilantro, add them now for extra crunch and freshness. Finish with another 1/4 cup of cheese on top to ensure that ooey-gooey texture.
Step 5: Add the Top Bread Slice
Close your sandwich with the second slice of bread, butter side up. This top layer will crisp up nicely while the cheese melts inside, locking all those flavors together.
Step 6: Grill Until Golden and Melty
Cook the sandwich for 3-4 minutes on one side, or until it is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. The result is a perfectly grilled, melty masterpiece with contrasting textures that keep you coming back for more.
Step 7: Repeat to Make More Sandwiches
Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients until you’ve made all four sandwiches. The smell alone is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
Step 8: Serve Hot and Enjoy!
Once grilled to perfection, serve these sandwiches immediately while they’re warm and gooey for the best experience.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes turn a great sandwich into an unforgettable one. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the finished sandwich for a pop of color and bright herbal flavor. Or add a few thin slices of red onion on the side for that extra crunch you’ll love.
Side Dishes
Pair your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese with classic comfort sides like crispy fries or a light, refreshing slaw. A side of pickles or tangy coleslaw works wonders to cut through the richness and balance every bite with a crisp contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut your sandwiches into bite-sized triangles and serve as party snacks or appetizers. You can also assemble them on a wooden board with bowls of extra BBQ sauce for dipping. Presentation that invites digging in makes this sandwich even more irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two days without sacrificing too much of that wonderful flavor and texture.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the sandwiches but do not cook them. Wrap individually in freezer-safe plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or bag. They can be frozen for up to one month. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or thawed sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat to bring back that crisply toasted bread and melty cheese. Avoid using a microwave if you want to keep the bread from getting soggy—this method preserves the sandwich’s best qualities.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and excellent choice because it’s already cooked and often very flavorful, making your sandwich even easier to prepare.
What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
Use your favorite BBQ sauce, whether sweet, smoky, or spicy. A thicker sauce helps the chicken stay juicy without making the sandwich soggy, but feel free to experiment to find the perfect match for your taste buds.
Can I use gluten-free bread?
Yes, gluten-free bread can be used, but be aware it might toast a little differently. Choose a sturdy gluten-free bread that holds up well when grilled to avoid crumbling during cooking.
Is it possible to make this sandwich vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with BBQ jackfruit or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist that still delivers that smoky, saucy goodness paired with melted cheese.
How do I get the cheese perfectly melted without burning the bread?
The key is cooking over medium heat and being patient. Cooking too hot will burn the bread before the cheese melts, so keep the temperature moderate and cook each side for about 3-4 minutes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about a sandwich that marries bold BBQ flavors with rich, melty cheese and golden toasted bread. This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe is an absolute winner whenever you want something quick, comforting, and delicious. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and enjoy every warm, flavorful bite just like I do!
Print
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delicious and savory BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwich combining tender shredded chicken coated in tangy BBQ sauce with melted cheese and optional fresh toppings, all grilled to golden perfection for a comforting meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
BBQ Chicken Mixture
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
Sandwich Assembly
- 8 slices of bread
- 4 tbsp butter, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well coated, ensuring every piece is fully covered with sauce for maximum flavor.
- Butter the bread: Spread a thin, even layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice; this will help achieve the golden, crispy crust when grilled.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet or griddle on the stove over medium heat and allow it to warm up for even cooking.
- Assemble the sandwich: Place one slice of bread, butter side down, onto the hot skillet. Add 1/4 cup shredded cheese, then top with 1/4 cup of the BBQ chicken mixture, followed by optional red onion slices and fresh cilantro if using. Sprinkle another 1/4 cup of cheese on top to help the sandwich bind together.
- Add the top slice: Place a second slice of bread on top of the fillings, butter side facing up, completing the sandwich assembly before cooking.
- Grill the sandwich: Cook until the bottom slice turns golden brown and the cheese starts melting, about 3 to 4 minutes. Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side until it is also golden brown and the cheese is fully melted, another 3 to 4 minutes.
- Repeat for remaining sandwiches: Follow the same assembly and grilling steps for the remaining ingredients to make a total of 4 sandwiches.
- Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, slice if desired, serve hot, and enjoy your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese.
Notes
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer, such as cheddar for sharpness, mozzarella for stretchiness, or a cheese blend.
- Optional ingredients like red onion and cilantro add fresh flavor and contrast to the savory BBQ chicken.
- Make sure the butter is softened for easy spreading and even crisping.
- If you want extra crispiness, cook the sandwich over medium-low heat to allow the cheese to melt thoroughly without burning the bread.
- Leftover sandwiches can be reheated in a skillet or oven to retain crispness.
