If ever there was a sandwich that could stake its claim as the ultimate comfort food with a fun twist, it’s the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese. This irresistible recipe layers tender, saucy chicken with two kinds of oozy melted cheese, all tucked between slices of golden, buttery bread—guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and make any weeknight dinner or weekend lunch feel like a celebration. Whether you love classic grilled cheese or are on the hunt for a new family favorite, this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is the perfect excuse to gather around the table and dig in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is how simple the ingredients are—yet each one plays a critical role in delivering bold flavor, glorious texture, and that eye-catching cheesy pull. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few ideas to make each element shine brighter.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here, making this dish fast and full of flavor—just shred and go!
- Barbecue sauce: Pick your favorite—smoky, sweet, or spicy—because it sets the tone for your sandwich.
- Sourdough or hearty white bread: Heartier breads hold up best to all those gooey fillings, giving you that perfect golden crunch.
- Unsalted butter, softened: For achieving the irresistibly crisp, golden exterior that makes any grilled cheese unforgettable.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Cheddar adds punchy flavor and that classic cheesy melt you want in every bite.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: For stretch! Mozzarella brings sensational melting action and a creamy balance.
- Red onion, thinly sliced (optional): Adds a pop of tang and a little crunch, cutting through the richness.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): A fresh, herby finish that brightens everything up.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Step 1: Mix Up the BBQ Chicken
Start by tossing your cooked shredded chicken with barbecue sauce in a bowl until every strand is lushly coated. The key here is even coverage, so every bite of your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese packs a smoky, tangy punch. If you like things a bit spicier, now’s the time to add a few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne!
Step 2: Butter the Bread
Grab that softened butter and slather one side of each bread slice. This is the golden ticket to a crisp, flavorful crust. Make sure to butter edge-to-edge for the ultimate crunch, because nobody wants a dry corner. The more generous, the better!
Step 3: Layer the Cheeses and Chicken
Lay four slices of bread buttered side down. Start with a layer of cheddar and mozzarella to create a melty base. Next, pile on the saucy BBQ chicken, then add those optional red onion slices and cilantro for zing and color. Top with another layer of cheese—it’s grilled cheese, after all!
Step 4: Close and Grill
Cap each sandwich with a second slice of bread, buttered side facing out. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat, then set the sandwiches down gently. Press lightly with a spatula as they cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side. You’re looking for beautifully golden bread and completely melted cheese. Adjust the heat if needed so they turn out perfectly crisp without burning.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Let your finished BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese rest for a minute, then slice and serve while hot and gooey. That moment when the cheese pulls apart and the aroma hits? Pure magic. Dig in and enjoy every single bite!
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Garnishes
Brighten up your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese with a shower of chopped fresh cilantro, a scatter of crunchy red onion rings, or even a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce. For those who love a spicy kick, a few pickled jalapeño slices on top work wonders.
Side Dishes
This grilled cheese shines with simple sides like classic coleslaw, tangy pickles, or a crisp green salad to balance all that cheesy richness. A bowl of tomato soup never goes out of style as a dipping companion, or try baked sweet potato fries for a smoky-sweet riff.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your sandwiches into hearty halves and pile them on a platter for easy sharing at picnics or party spreads. Make mini versions for a game day appetizer platter, or serve open-faced for a slightly lighter twist. However you plate it, BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese makes a show-stopping centerpiece!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though they tend to disappear fast!), let your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese cool to room temperature, then wrap tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps keep the bread from getting too soggy so the cheesy goodness stays intact.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese! Allow the sandwiches to cool, then wrap each individually in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil. Freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready, simply thaw in the fridge before reheating for a quick lunch or dinner shortcut.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese in a skillet over medium heat, flipping once until the bread crisps back up and the cheese is melty again. In a pinch, you can use the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. The microwave works for speed, but the bread won’t be quite as crisp.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute other melty favorites like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even smoked gouda. Mixing cheeses is part of the fun, and it gives your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese a custom flavor twist every time.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Definitely! Use your favorite gluten-free bread and always check the barbecue sauce label for any hidden wheat ingredients. The filling is naturally gluten-free, so swapping out the bread is all you need to do.
What’s the best way to shred the chicken?
The fastest method is using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, pulling it apart with two forks or even your hands. For homemade chicken, poach or roast breasts or thighs, then shred while still slightly warm for easier handling and maximum juiciness.
Can I prep the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Mix the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to assemble your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese, just layer and grill as directed. It’s a great make-ahead hack for busy days.
How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
Make sure to use hearty bread, keep butter on the outside for a good sear, and don’t overload the filling (especially with sauce). Cooking the sandwich long enough over medium heat lets the bread crisp up and keeps your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese deliciously crispy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully nostalgic yet totally fresh about biting into a BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese, with its melty layers and bold flavors. If you love easy recipes that bring big smiles and even bigger flavor, you’ve just found your new go-to. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked after just one bite!
Print
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese recipe. Packed with tender shredded chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and gooey melted cheeses, this sandwich is a flavor explosion that will satisfy all your cravings.
Ingredients
For the BBQ Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices sourdough or hearty white bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the BBQ Chicken: In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce until evenly coated.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side of four slices, layer a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese, followed by a generous spoonful of the BBQ chicken mixture. Add red onion and cilantro if desired. Top with more cheese, then close with the remaining bread slices, buttered side out.
- Cook the Sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden brown and the cheese is melted. Slice and serve hot.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works well
- Choose your favorite BBQ sauce
- For extra heat, add jalapeños
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