This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on a classic! It’s loaded with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and zesty BBQ sauce, all grilled to golden perfection.
Honestly, who can resist melty cheese? 😋 I love serving this with a side of crispy fries, and it always brings smiles around the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Sourdough gives a nice tang, but Texas toast makes it extra thick and tasty. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat works great too. You can even try gluten-free bread if needed!
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is super convenient and packed with flavor. If you don’t have chicken, you can use shredded turkey or even pulled pork for a different twist.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand for the best flavor. I love a smoky BBQ sauce, but you can switch it with a sweet or spicy version depending on your taste. Homemade BBQ sauce is also an option!
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic for grilled cheese, but mixing it with cheddar adds a nice sharpness. You can also use provolone or gouda if you’re feeling adventurous!
Butter: Regular butter gives a great rich flavor, but you can use olive oil for a lighter option. If you want to skip dairy, try a vegan butter substitute.
How Do You Get That Perfectly Melty Cheese?
Cheese melting just right is crucial for a grilled cheese sandwich. Follow these steps to ensure gooey goodness every time:
- Grate your cheese instead of slicing it; this helps it melt faster and more evenly.
- Start cooking on medium heat. If it’s too high, the bread might burn before the cheese melts.
- Cover the skillet with a lid after flipping the sandwich; this traps heat and helps melt the cheese quicker.
Let your sandwich rest for a minute before cutting; it allows the melted cheese to firm up a bit for easier slicing. Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese with gooey, melted cheese that pulls apart deliciously!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice: sourdough, Texas toast, or whole wheat)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your preferred brand)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 8-10 minutes to cook. So, in just around 20 minutes, you can enjoy a warm, cheesy delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken Mixture:
Start by taking a mixing bowl and adding the shredded chicken. Pour in the BBQ sauce and mix it well. You want to make sure all the chicken is thoroughly coated in that yummy BBQ sauce!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a non-stick skillet on the stove and turn the heat to medium. This will help ensure your sandwich cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan!
3. Butter the Bread:
While the skillet is warming up, take your butter and spread it on one side of each slice of bread. This will create that golden, crispy crust that we all love!
4. Assemble the Sandwich:
Once the skillet is hot, place one slice of bread in the skillet, butter side down. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the bread. Next, spoon the BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese, spreading it evenly.
5. Complete the Sandwich Layer:
Top the chicken with the rest of the mozzarella cheese, and then place the other slice of bread on top, with the butter side facing up.
6. Cook the Sandwich:
Cook your sandwich for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom slice of bread is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt. Use a spatula to carefully flip the sandwich over and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until it is also golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
7. Slice and Garnish:
Once the sandwich is done, carefully take it out of the skillet. Let it cool for a minute, then slice it in half. If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a nice touch!
Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese hot and tasty!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time saver. Just shred the meat off the bones, and mix it with the BBQ sauce as directed. It will add amazing flavor without requiring any extra cooking!
What Type of Bread Works Best for This Recipe?
You can use any kind of bread you like! Sourdough and Texas toast provide a nice crispy texture, while whole wheat adds a hearty flavor. Just pick your favorite, but make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling!
How to Store Leftover BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
To store leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. It will be good in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat to maintain the crispiness of the bread.
Can I Customize the Cheese Blend?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses. Cheddar, pepper jack, or even gouda can add a delicious twist. Just remember to keep it a mix that melts well for that gooey grilled cheese effect!
