This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a warm and cheesy treat that hits all the right notes! Loaded with tender chicken and zesty barbecue sauce, it’s like a flavor party in your mouth.
The best part? Who doesn’t love melted cheese? I can’t help but add extra cheese for gooey goodness. Perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner while binge-watching your favorite show!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works great here, saving you prep time. If you need a vegetarian option, consider using shredded jackfruit mixed with BBQ sauce for a similar texture.
BBQ Sauce: Any BBQ sauce you enjoy can be used, but try a sweeter one for a lovely contrast with the cheese. If you want it spicier, use a smoky or hot barbecue sauce. You can also make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
Bread: I like sourdough for its tangy flavor and crispy crust. If you prefer gluten-free or whole grain, just pick a bread that suits your taste. Ciabatta or thick brioche also work well for an upscale touch.
C cheeses: Mozzarella and cheddar create a delicious blend but feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra kick. For a dairy-free version, try vegan cheese shreds to keep that gooey texture.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grilled Cheese Crispness?
Grilling your sandwich to perfection is key for the right crunch! Start by buttering the bread; it helps achieve that golden brown crust. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your skillet to medium heat; too high will burn the bread before the cheese melts.
- Butter one side of the bread generously; don’t skimp! Place the buttered side down in the skillet.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden, then flip carefully. Press down slightly with a spatula for even grilling.
Letting the sandwich cool for a minute after grilling helps the cheese firm up a bit for easier cutting. Enjoy your cooking!
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, e.g., sourdough or white)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter (for grilling)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 8 minutes to cook. You’ll be enjoying this cheesy, savory treat in just 18 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
Start by taking a medium bowl and mixing the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Stir it well until the chicken is completely coated. If you like, add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste for extra flavor!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Next, place a skillet or griddle on the stove and turn the heat to medium. Let it warm up a bit while you prepare the sandwiches.
3. Butter the Bread:
Take the butter and spread it on one side of each slice of bread. This will give your sandwiches that beautiful golden color when grilled. Now, place two slices of the bread, buttered side down, onto the preheated skillet.
4. Layer the Ingredients:
On each slice of bread, sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese first, creating a nice cheesy base. Then, spoon the BBQ chicken mixture on top, spreading it evenly. Finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese and the cheddar cheese on top of the chicken. Grab the other two slices of bread and place them on top, buttered side up.
5. Grill the Sandwiches:
It’s time to cook! Grill the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them until the bread is golden brown and you can see the cheese melting inside. You might want to press down gently with a spatula for even cooking!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the sandwiches are done, carefully remove them from the skillet and let them cool for a minute. Cut them in half for easy eating and sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Serve them hot and enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Different Cheeses for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar work great together, you can mix it up with other cheeses like provolone, pepper jack for a bit of a kick, or gouda for a rich flavor. Just make sure to stick to cheeses that melt well for that gooey texture!
What Type of Bread Works Best?
You can use any bread you like! Sourdough gives a nice crust and tang, while white bread offers a classic taste. Whole wheat or brioche are also excellent choices, depending on your preference. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the fillings without falling apart.
How Can I Store Leftover Grilled Cheese Sandwiches?
To store leftovers, place the sandwiches in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over low heat for best results, flipping occasionally until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian! Substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also add some beans or lentils for protein while still keeping the BBQ sauce for flavor!
