This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a tasty twist on a classic. With smoky BBQ chicken and melted cheese, it’s a delightful combination that’s sure to please!
Who could resist that cheesy goodness with a hint of BBQ? I love making this quick meal when I’m super hungry—just grill it up, and you’ve got comfort food in no time!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Choose your favorite type! Sourdough adds flavor, while white bread provides a classic touch. Whole grain is a great choice for added nutrition. Just avoid bread that’s too crumbly.
Cooked Chicken: Use any cooked chicken you have on hand. Rotisserie chicken is perfect for its ease and flavor. For a vegetarian option, try using jackfruit or tempeh seasoned with BBQ sauce!
BBQ Sauce: Pick a sauce you love! Sweet, tangy, or smokey sauces all work. For a healthier twist, make your own sauce or use a sugar-free variety.
Cheese: I recommend mozzarella for its melting qualities, but cheddar adds a nice sharpness. Feel free to mix cheeses like pepper jack for extra kick or even vegan cheeses for dairy-free options!
Butter: Traditional butter gives fantastic flavor, but you can also use olive oil or dairy-free spreads if needed. Just make sure it’s spreadable!
How Can I Get the Best Melt on My Grilled Cheese?
The trick to achieving gooey melted cheese in your grilled cheese is all about the heat and timing. Start with medium heat to ensure the outside cooks while the inside melts.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread evenly for a rich flavor.
- Layer cheese well, allowing plenty to melt inside and a bit on top for a gooey effect.
- Don’t rush the cooking! Let it brown for about 4-5 minutes each side – patience is key.
For an extra tip, cover the skillet for a minute or two while cooking; this helps trap heat and melt the cheese faster. Enjoy that cheesy goodness!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice, such as sourdough or white)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your preferred brand)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese will take you about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. Just a quick mix, layer, and grill, and you’ll be ready to enjoy a warm and cheesy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is well-coated in the sauce. This will give your sandwich a flavorful kick!
2. Butter the Bread:
Now, let’s heat up your skillet! Place it over medium heat. While waiting for it to warm up, spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will give your sandwich a nice, golden crust.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
Once the skillet is ready, place one slice of bread butter-side down in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top of the bread slice. Next, spoon the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the cheese, making sure to spread it out well. Finally, top the chicken with the remaining shredded cheese.
4. Cook The Sandwich:
Place the second slice of bread on top, butter-side up. Cook the sandwich for about 4-5 minutes, or until the bottom bread is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt. Use a spatula to carefully flip the sandwich over. Cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side until it’s also golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Once your sandwich is cooked to perfection, remove it from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. You can cut it in half for easy eating. If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a nice touch. Now, sit back and enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese warm!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any bread you like, such as whole wheat, rye, or even a baguette for a fun twist. Just keep in mind that sturdier bread may take a bit longer to crisp up.
What Can I Substitute for Shredded Chicken?
If you don’t have shredded chicken on hand, you can use rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even canned chicken. Just make sure to drain and shred the meat before mixing it with the BBQ sauce.
How to Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
You can prep the BBQ chicken mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to make the sandwich, just assemble and cook it directly from the fridge—your cooking time may be slightly longer if the filling is cold!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Cheese?
Store any leftover grilled cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat to maintain the crispiness of the bread, flipping it once to heat evenly.
