BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a delightful spin on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, perfect for when you’re craving something a little more hearty and flavorful. This sandwich combines tender, smoky BBQ chicken with gooey, melted cheese, all encased in crispy, buttery bread. It’s the ultimate comfort food mashup that’s easy to make and bursting with bold flavors. Whether you’re serving it up for lunch, dinner, or even a game-day snack, BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is sure to hit the spot.
The first time I made this sandwich, I was looking for a way to use up some leftover BBQ chicken from the night before. I decided to stuff it between two slices of bread with a healthy dose of cheese and give it a good, golden crisp in the skillet. The result was pure comfort food bliss! The tangy BBQ sauce, melty cheese, and crunchy bread made for an unforgettable bite. Now, it’s a go-to in my household whenever we want something quick, easy, and downright delicious.
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Quick and Easy: This sandwich comes together in minutes with simple ingredients. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a fast lunch when you’re craving something comforting but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
A Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet and smoky BBQ chicken with creamy melted cheese and crispy, buttery bread is pure flavor heaven. Every bite is rich, tangy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying.
Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover BBQ chicken or rotisserie chicken. Just toss it in some BBQ sauce, and you’re ready to go!
Customizable: You can switch up the cheese, add toppings like onions or jalapeños, or even make it spicy with a dash of hot sauce. The possibilities are endless!
Prep Time and Servings
Total Time: 20 minutes (10 minutes prep, 10 minutes cooking)
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Calories per serving: 550 (depending on the type and amount of cheese used)
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand or homemade)
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough, ciabatta, or your preferred type)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened (for spreading on the bread)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella works well)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional, for extra crunch and flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Optional Add-Ins:
- Sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Crispy bacon for extra smokiness
- Pickles for tangy contrast
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Filling: If you’re using leftover chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces. In a small bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until the chicken is fully coated. If you’re working with freshly cooked chicken, just toss it with the sauce while it’s still warm for better absorption of the flavors.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface. Spread butter on one side of each slice—this will help the bread crisp up nicely when cooked. On the unbuttered side of two slices, evenly layer the shredded cheese. Add the BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese, then sprinkle a bit more cheese over the chicken (because the more cheese, the better!). If you’re adding onions, jalapeños, or any other toppings, layer them on top of the chicken.
- Close the Sandwich: Place the remaining slices of bread on top of the chicken and cheese, buttered side facing out. This will ensure that both sides of the sandwich get that perfect, golden-brown crunch.
- Cook the Grilled Cheese: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, place the sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side, pressing down gently with a spatula to help the bread crisp up and the cheese melt. Flip the sandwich and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the sandwiches are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before slicing in half. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color, and serve with extra BBQ sauce or a side of coleslaw for dipping. Enjoy!
How to Serve
- With a Side of Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy crunch of coleslaw is a perfect complement to the rich flavors of the BBQ chicken grilled cheese.
- Serve with Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Pair the sandwich with some crispy fries or sweet potato fries for a classic, comforting meal.
- Dip in BBQ Sauce or Ranch: For an extra layer of flavor, serve with a small bowl of BBQ sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Tips for Success
Use Good-Quality BBQ Sauce: Since BBQ sauce is a key ingredient in this recipe, using a high-quality or homemade sauce will make a big difference in the flavor. Whether you like it smoky, sweet, or spicy, choose a sauce that you love!
Butter the Bread Well: To get that perfect golden crust, make sure to butter the outside of the bread slices evenly. This ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and cheesy.
Low and Slow for Melty Cheese: Cook the sandwich over medium heat to allow the cheese to melt evenly without burning the bread. If the heat is too high, the bread will toast before the cheese has a chance to fully melt.
Mix Up the Cheeses: Don’t be afraid to mix different types of cheese for extra flavor and gooeyness. Cheddar adds sharpness, while Monterey Jack and mozzarella provide creaminess and great meltability.
Add Toppings: Customize your sandwich with toppings like crispy bacon, thinly sliced red onions, or even pickles. These add extra texture and flavor, taking the sandwich to the next level.
Recipe Variations
Spicy BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese: Add a few slices of fresh or pickled jalapeños to the sandwich for a spicy kick. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce to turn up the heat.
Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese: Swap the BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce and add a sprinkle of blue cheese for a tangy twist on this sandwich. This variation is great for anyone who loves the flavors of buffalo wings.
Hawaiian BBQ Grilled Cheese: Add a slice of pineapple to the sandwich along with the BBQ chicken for a sweet and tangy Hawaiian twist. The pineapple pairs beautifully with the smoky BBQ flavor and gooey cheese.
BBQ Bacon Grilled Cheese: For an extra indulgent version, add a few slices of crispy bacon to the sandwich. The smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the BBQ chicken and cheese.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing: If you have leftovers, store the grilled cheese sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the bread from getting soggy, you can store the filling separately and assemble the sandwich just before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat the sandwich, place it in a skillet over medium heat and cook until the bread is crisp and the cheese is melted again, about 3-4 minutes per side. You can also reheat it in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the bread soggy.
Special Equipment
- Non-Stick Skillet or Griddle: A good non-stick skillet or cast iron pan will give your grilled cheese that perfect crispy exterior without sticking.
- Spatula: A wide spatula is handy for flipping the sandwiches without losing any filling.
- Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is key for cutting through the crispy bread and melty cheese without squishing the sandwich.
FAQ
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred the chicken and toss it with your favorite BBQ sauce before adding it to the sandwich.
What kind of cheese is best for this sandwich?
A combination of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella is a great choice for this sandwich. Cheddar adds sharpness, while Monterey Jack and mozzarella give you that melty, gooey goodness. You can also use pepper jack if you like a little spice.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
While it’s best to enjoy the grilled cheese fresh off the skillet for maximum crispiness, you can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Then, assemble and grill the sandwich when you’re ready to eat.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free bread, and make sure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free as well.
What other toppings can I add?
You can get creative with toppings! Try adding sautéed onions, pickles, jalapeños, or even avocado slices. Crispy bacon is also a delicious addition.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup—crispy, cheesy, and full of bold, smoky flavors. Whether you’re using up leftover BBQ chicken or starting from scratch, this sandwich comes together quickly and is sure to satisfy any craving. With melty cheese, tangy BBQ sauce, and perfectly grilled bread, this sandwich is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack. Give it a try, and don’t forget to experiment with your
favorite toppings and cheeses to make it your own!
Print
Beef Pasta in Tomato Sauce {Beef Ragu Pasta}
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Description
I can’t tell you how many times this Beef Ragu Pasta has saved me on busy weeknights! There’s something magical about the smell of slow-cooked beef simmering in a rich tomato sauce that fills the house with warmth and comfort. My family loves it, and it’s one of those meals that always seems to bring smiles to the dinner table. It’s hearty, satisfying, and pairs perfectly with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread. Every time I make this dish, it’s a reminder of how good home-cooked meals can be!
Ingredients
lb (450g) ground beef (or beef chuck, finely chopped)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup beef broth (or red wine)
2 tablespoons olive oil
12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine work great)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the Veggies: Add the chopped onion, carrot, celery, and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and beef broth (or red wine). Bring to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
- Combine and Serve: Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors are well developed, add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss to combine and heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the Beef Ragu Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 450
