There’s nothing quite like the comforting satisfaction of a classic grilled cheese sandwich. But what if we told you that you can take this beloved dish to new heights by adding a delectable twist? Introducing the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese – a mouthwatering fusion of smoky, tangy barbecue flavors and the gooey, melty goodness of a grilled cheese. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion in every bite!

The Best Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

To create the ultimate BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese, you’ll need a carefully curated selection of ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at each component and why they’re essential to this dish:

Cooked Shredded Chicken

The star of the show is, of course, the tender, juicy chicken. For the best results, opt for cooked chicken breasts or thighs that have been shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces. This ensures the chicken is fully incorporated into the sandwich and provides a hearty texture in every bite.

Tantalizing BBQ Sauce

The key to elevating your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is the right BBQ sauce. Choose a sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors. Whether you prefer a classic Kansas City-style sauce or a more adventurous Carolina-inspired variety, the BBQ sauce will add a delightful layer of complexity to the dish.

Sourdough Bread

For the ultimate grilled cheese experience, you’ll want to use hearty sourdough bread. The slightly tangy and chewy texture of sourdough complements the richness of the BBQ chicken and melted cheese beautifully. If you prefer a different bread type, such as whole grain or brioche, feel free to experiment to find your perfect match.

Melty Cheddar Cheese

No grilled cheese is complete without the perfect cheese. Cheddar is a classic choice for its exceptional melting properties and bold, savory flavor. The cheddar’s creamy texture will seamlessly blend with the BBQ chicken, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

Flavorful Red Onion

Thinly sliced red onion adds a subtle crunch and pungent kick to the sandwich. The onion’s natural sweetness also helps to balance the richness of the other ingredients, resulting in a well-rounded taste experience.

Butter for Grilling Perfection

Finally, don’t forget the butter. Evenly coating the bread with softened butter is crucial for achieving that perfectly crispy, golden-brown exterior that’s essential for any grilled cheese masterpiece.

How to Assemble and Grill the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Now that you’ve gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to bring your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese to life. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a grilled cheese that’s sure to impress:

Mix the Chicken with BBQ Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken with your desired amount of BBQ sauce. Gently toss the ingredients until the chicken is evenly coated, ensuring the perfect balance of saucy goodness.

Assemble the Sandwich

Butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread. On the unbuttered side, layer the BBQ chicken mixture, followed by the cheddar cheese slices and thinly sliced red onion. Top with another slice of bread, butter-side up, to complete the sandwich.

Grill to Perfection

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the assembled sandwich in the hot pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and oozing. Keep a close eye on the sandwich, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent burning.

Once the cheese is perfectly melted and the bread is crispy, it’s time to slice and serve your masterpiece. Pair your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese with your favorite side, such as a fresh salad or crispy fries, for a complete and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

The beauty of the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese lies in its versatility. This sandwich can be enjoyed as a comforting lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a showstopping appetizer at your next gathering. Consider these serving ideas and pairings to elevate your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese experience:

Sides: Pair your sandwich with a crisp coleslaw, tangy pickles, or a side of creamy tomato soup for a classic comfort food combination.
Beverages: A cold, refreshing beer or a sweet iced tea complement the bold flavors of the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese perfectly.
Entertaining: Cut the sandwich into bite-sized triangles or squares for a fun, shareable appetizer at your next party or backyard BBQ.

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Tips for Perfecting Your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

To ensure your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is an absolute showstopper, keep these tips in mind:

Cheese Selection: Opt for a high-quality cheddar cheese that melts seamlessly. You can also experiment with other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.
Avoiding Soggy Bread: Butter the bread generously to create a protective barrier against the wet BBQ chicken mixture, ensuring a delightfully crispy exterior.
Balancing the BBQ Sauce: Start with a smaller amount of BBQ sauce and add more to your desired level of flavor. Too much sauce can make the sandwich overpowering.
Bread Variety: While sourdough is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to try different bread types, such as brioche or whole grain, to find your personal preference.

FAQs about BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

What ingredients do I need to make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?

To make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese, you will need the following ingredients:

Cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
BBQ sauce (your preferred flavor)
Cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack)
Bread (sourdough, white, or whole grain)
Butter or oil (for grilling)
Optional: onions, pickles, or additional spices for added flavor

How do I prepare the BBQ Chicken for the sandwich?

To prepare the BBQ Chicken, start by shredding or dicing cooked chicken. Mix the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce until it’s well coated. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or quickly cook some chicken breast or thighs in a skillet or oven. Ensure the mixture is heated through before assembling the sandwich.

What is the best way to grill the sandwich?

To grill the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese, follow these steps:

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
Layer the BBQ chicken mixture and cheese on top of the bread. Add another slice of bread, butter-side up.
Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy, about another 3-5 minutes. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.

Can I customize my BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?

Absolutely! You can customize your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese in various ways:

Use different types of cheese for unique flavors, like smoked gouda or pepper jack for a kick.
Add extras such as sautéed onions, jalapeños, or pickles for added texture and taste.
Experiment with different types of bread, such as ciabatta, brioche, or whole grain.
Try different BBQ sauces, from sweet to spicy, to match your taste preferences.

Feel free to get creative and make this sandwich your own!

Elevate Your Grilled Cheese Experience with BBQ Chicken

Prepare to be amazed by the irresistible combination of tender BBQ chicken and melty cheese, sandwiched between perfectly grilled sourdough bread. This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a game-changer that will elevate your lunchtime or dinnertime routine. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering masterpiece that will leave your taste buds craving more. Happy grilling!

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Author: Time of Recipes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x

Print Recipe

Description

There’s nothing quite like the comforting satisfaction of a classic grilled cheese sandwich. But what if we told you that you can take this beloved dish to new heights by adding a delectable twist? Introducing the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese – a mouthwatering fusion of smoky, tangy barbecue flavors and the gooey, melty goodness of a grilled cheese. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion in every bite!

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your preferred flavor)
4 slices sourdough bread
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
4 tablespoons butter, softened

Instructions

Mix the Chicken with BBQ Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken with your desired amount of BBQ sauce. Gently toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Assemble the Sandwich: Butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread. On the unbuttered side, layer the BBQ chicken mixture, followed by the cheddar cheese slices and thinly sliced red onion. Top with another slice of bread, butter-side up.
Grill to Perfection: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the assembled sandwich in the hot pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and oozing. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Once the cheese is perfectly melted and the bread is crispy, slice and serve your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese.

Notes

Experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.
Be mindful of the BBQ sauce quantity to prevent overpowering the sandwich.
Feel free to use different bread types such as brioche or whole grain to suit your preference.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Sandwich
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 600 kcal
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: BBQ Chicken, Grilled Cheese, Comfort Food, Sandwich Recipe