This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on a classic favorite. Crispy bread hugs tender chicken and tangy BBQ sauce, all melted together with gooey cheese!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how easy it is to whip this up for lunch or dinner. Just stack it, grill it, and then enjoy the cheesy goodness. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to. It’s convenient and packed with flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken for a quicker option.
BBQ Sauce: A tangy sauce adds great flavor. I prefer homemade if I have time, but store-bought works wonderfully too. Feel free to switch it up with a spicy sauce or a honey BBQ for a different twist.
Bread: I love using sourdough for its crispy crust and soft center. But white bread or Texas toast are also great choices. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, find gluten-free bread that you enjoy.
Cheese: Mozzarella is melty and mild, perfect for grilled cheese. You can use cheddar for a sharper taste or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and Gouda if you want to get creative.
Butter: Butter gives a lovely golden crust. If you need a dairy-free option, use olive oil or vegan butter. Both will toast nicely!
How Can You Get the Perfectly Toasted Grilled Cheese?
To get that lovely golden crust, follow these simple steps. It’s all about the heat and butter level!
- Heat your skillet on medium; if it’s too hot, your bread can burn before the cheese melts.
- Generously butter the bread. This helps it crisp up nicely. Don’t skimp here!
- Cook on medium-low heat; it allows the cheese to melt while the bread toasts evenly.
- Keep an eye on it! Flip the sandwiches when the bottom is golden, about 4-5 minutes. Patience pays off!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 4 slices of bread (your choice: white, sourdough, or Texas toast)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sliced pickles or jalapeños for added flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. So, in about 20 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering sandwich ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken Mixture:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until every piece is nicely coated. This will give your sandwich that tangy flavor we love! Set the mixture aside for later.
2. Preheat Your Skillet:
Turn on your stove and set the skillet to medium heat. This will ensure your sandwich cooks evenly and becomes golden brown.
3. Butter Your Bread:
Take the butter and spread it generously on one side of each slice of bread. This butter will create that nice crispy crust when grilled!
4. Start Layering in the Skillet:
Place two slices of bread in the skillet, making sure the buttered sides are facing down. On top of these slices, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly.
5. Add the BBQ Chicken:
Next, take your BBQ chicken mixture and evenly spread it over the cheese. Make sure to cover it well so each bite is full of flavor.
6. Top It Off with More Cheese:
Add the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken layer. Then, place the other two slices of bread on top, but this time with the buttered side facing up.
7. Cook Your Sandwich:
Carefully cook the sandwich on medium-low heat. Let it grill until the bottom side turns golden brown, which should take around 4-5 minutes. Then, flip it over gently and cook the other side until it’s also golden and the cheese is melted, about another 4-5 minutes.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once both sides are beautifully cooked, carefully remove the sandwiches from the skillet. Let them cool for a minute, then cut them in half. Top with some chopped parsley for a fresh touch. If you want, add some sliced pickles or jalapeños for extra zing!
Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the BBQ sauce as instructed. It saves time and adds extra flavor!
What Bread Works Best for This Recipe?
You can use any bread you like, but sourdough or Texas toast gives a nice texture and flavor. White bread is a classic choice, too! Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the BBQ chicken mixture a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply assemble the grilled cheese as directed, and you’ll have a quick and delicious meal!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Cheese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply use a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or pop it in the toaster oven for a crispy texture again!
