Bbq Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

There's something absolutely irresistible about the sizzle of buttered bread on a hot skillet, especially when it's hugging layers of melty cheese and smoky BBQ chicken. The blend of gooey cheese, tender shredded chicken, and tangy barbecue sauce creates a grilled cheese that's truly next-level.

this Recipe

I first whipped up this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese on a lazy Sunday afternoon, looking for a way to use up some leftover rotisserie chicken. Since then, it's become a staple in my kitchen — quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it.

Why You'll Love This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Get ready to meet your new go-to comfort food. This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese brings together the best of both worlds: the classic grilled cheese we all adore and the bold, smoky flavors of barbecue chicken.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick and easy. From start to finish, you can have these sandwiches on the table in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're simply too hungry to wait.

It’s also wonderfully budget-friendly. Using simple, everyday ingredients like leftover chicken, cheese, and pantry BBQ sauce means you’re not breaking the bank to enjoy a satisfying meal.

The versatility of this recipe is another huge win. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have — different cheeses, homemade BBQ sauce, or even gluten-free bread if needed. It’s highly customizable to suit any taste.

Lastly, it's kid-approved and perfect for family meals. Even the pickiest eaters tend to devour these sandwiches without complaint, making dinner time a breeze.

Now that you’re eager to try it, let’s go over the ingredients that make this sandwich so special.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese lies in its straightforward ingredients that work together to create a mouthwatering sandwich every time.

Shredded chicken is the star of the filling. I typically use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked and shredded chicken breast or thigh meat will work beautifully. The key is to ensure it’s moist and well-seasoned so the sandwich stays juicy.

BBQ sauce infuses the sandwich with its signature sweet and smoky flavor. Use your favorite store-bought brand or make your own if you have a preferred recipe. I like a slightly tangy sauce to balance the richness of the cheese.

Cheese is where you can get creative. I love a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella — cheddar for its bold flavor and mozzarella for that irresistible cheese pull. You can also experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a little kick.

Bread acts as the canvas for all these flavors. Thick-sliced sourdough or a hearty country loaf works best, providing a sturdy base that crisps up beautifully while holding all the fillings without falling apart.

To cook these sandwiches perfectly, you’ll need a large skillet or griddle and a spatula. A heavy-bottomed pan ensures even heat distribution, giving you that golden, crispy crust every time.

How To Make This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Making this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is as simple as it is satisfying. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by combining your shredded chicken and BBQ sauce in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated. You want the mixture to be moist but not overly saucy, so it doesn't ooze out during cooking.

Next, lay out your slices of bread on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice — this will be the outside of the sandwich that crisps up on the skillet. On the unbuttered side, start layering your cheese.

Place a generous layer of cheddar on the bottom slice, then spoon the BBQ chicken mixture on top, spreading it evenly. Add a layer of mozzarella (or your chosen cheese) over the chicken, then top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.

Heat your skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, gently place the sandwiches onto the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure even browning.

Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the second side. The bread should be golden brown and crispy, and the cheese should be fully melted.

Once done, remove the sandwiches from the pan and let them rest for a minute before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly and prevents the filling from spilling out when you cut into it. From start to finish, the entire process takes around 15-20 minutes.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers, this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese stores surprisingly well with a few simple steps.

Allow the sandwiches to cool completely before storing. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to prevent moisture from making the bread soggy.

Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them by wrapping each sandwich in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheating is easy. For the best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, pressing gently with a spatula to restore that crispy exterior. Alternatively, you can use a toaster oven or air fryer to warm them through while keeping the bread crisp.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is how adaptable it is to your preferences and pantry staples.

For a spicier version, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the BBQ chicken mixture before assembling the sandwich. This adds a nice kick without overwhelming the other flavors.

If you’re looking to make it even more indulgent, consider adding crispy bacon strips between the chicken and cheese layers. The smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the barbecue flavors and takes the sandwich to the next level.

For a slightly healthier option, use whole wheat or multigrain bread, and opt for a reduced-fat cheese. You can also use grilled or baked chicken breast for a leaner protein option.

To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken with BBQ jackfruit or seasoned tofu. Both options absorb the barbecue sauce well and provide a similar texture to shredded chicken.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, sauces, and add-ins. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility and your ability to make it your own.

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