This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a tasty mix of gooey cheese, tender chicken, and barbecue sauce, all melted between crispy golden bread. Perfect for lunch or a snack!
I can’t resist the combo of sweet and smoky flavors! Just a hint of BBQ makes every bite exciting. Pair it with a side of chips, and you’re set for a delicious meal! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Use any bread you love! Sourdough adds a nice tang, while white bread is classic. Whole grain is a healthy twist, too. Just make sure it can hold up to grilling.
Shredded Chicken: If you don’t have cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken is a time-saver! For a vegetarian option, try using shredded jackfruit or tofu for a similar texture.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for flavor. If it’s too sweet, go for a tangy sauce. You can also make your own BBQ sauce using ketchup, vinegar, and some spices if you’re feeling adventurous!
Cheese: Mozzarella is great for melting, but feel free to mix it up with cheddar or gouda for a different taste. Just remember, more cheese usually means more deliciousness!
Butter: Butter gives a great flavor, but you can use olive oil or even a non-dairy alternative if you’re looking for a healthier option.
How Do You Grill a Perfect Grilled Cheese?
The key to a perfect grilled cheese is the grilling technique. Taking your time ensures the bread gets golden brown while the cheese melts beautifully. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat. Too high and the bread burns before the cheese melts. Too low and it may take forever!
- Butter only one side of the bread to start. That keeps things simple and allows the bread to soak up some flavor.
- Layer your ingredients carefully; this helps with even melting and prevents spillover.
- Let the sandwich rest for a minute after grilling. This keeps the cheese gooey and prevents burns when you slice it.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice)
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter (for grilling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a tasty lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Filling:
In a bowl, mix together the shredded cooked chicken and BBQ sauce. Stir until all the chicken is nicely coated. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and mix again. Set this aside for later.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place your skillet on the stove and preheat it over medium heat. This is where you’ll grill your sandwich, so we want it to be nice and warm!
3. Butter the Bread:
Take the butter and spread it evenly on one side of each slice of bread. This will help your sandwich get that lovely golden color while grilling.
4. Assemble the Sandwich:
Carefully place one slice of bread in the skillet, buttered side down. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top of the bread. Next, add the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the cheese. Top that with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Finally, add the second slice of bread on top, buttered side up.
5. Grill the Sandwich:
Cook the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes, or until you see that the bottom slice is beautifully golden brown. Then, with a spatula, carefully flip the sandwich over and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes until it’s golden and the cheese is nicely melted.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once both sides are grilled to perfection, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it sit for a minute. This will help the cheese settle a bit. Slice it in half, sprinkle with some chopped parsley if you like, and serve warm. Enjoy your tasty BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella gives a nice melt, you can substitute it with cheddar, gouda, or even a pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
What Type of Bread Works Best for Grilled Cheese?
Any bread you like will work! Common choices include white, whole wheat, sourdough, or even ciabatta for an extra crusty bite. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold all the delicious fillings!
Can I Make It Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, and keep the BBQ sauce for flavor. This offers a delicious twist while keeping it meat-free!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet on low to medium heat for a few minutes per side to crisp it back up, instead of microwaving, which can make it soggy.
