BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese article
This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwich is a melty, smoky, and irresistibly gooey comfort food mashup. Featuring tender BBQ chicken, buttery crisp bread, and layers of your favorite cheeses, it’s the ultimate grilled sandwich experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day, or when you need something extra comforting.
Equipment
- Nonstick skillet or cast iron pan
- Spatula or grill press
- Mixing bowl (for tossing chicken with BBQ sauce)
- Butter knife or pastry brush
- Optional: Panini press, cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
- 1/3 cup BBQ sauce (sweet, smoky, or spicy)
- 4 slices bread (sourdough, brioche, or Texas toast)
- 4 slices cheese (cheddar, smoked gouda, or mozzarella)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter or mayo (for spreading)
Optional add-ins:
- 2 tbsp caramelized onions
- 1–2 slices crispy bacon
- Pickled jalapeños or fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro)
Instructions
Prepare the BBQ Chicken
- In a bowl, toss shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Warm gently on the stove or microwave if needed.
Butter the Bread
- Spread one side of each bread slice with butter or mayo. This will be the outside for crisping.
Assemble the Sandwiches
- Lay 2 slices of bread (butter side down) in the pan. Top each with cheese, a layer of BBQ chicken, optional add-ins (onions, bacon, jalapeños), another slice of cheese, then the remaining bread (butter side up).
Grill to Perfection
- Heat a skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing down gently, until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Serve & Slice
- Let the sandwiches rest for 1–2 minutes, then slice in half and serve with extra BBQ sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Cheese Tip: Use at least one melty cheese like mozzarella or gouda for that classic cheese pull.
- Crispier Crust: Mayo gives a golden, tangy finish; butter provides richer flavor. Try both to see which you prefer.
- Make Ahead: BBQ chicken can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Spicy Option: Add chipotle BBQ sauce or chili flakes for heat.
- Kid-Friendly: Skip the add-ins and stick with mild cheddar and soft white bread.