Bbq Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

There's something truly irresistible about the combination of smoky BBQ chicken and gooey melted cheese, all nestled between two perfectly toasted slices of bread. This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese isn’t just a sandwich — it’s a full-blown flavor experience that hits all the right notes: sweet, tangy, savory, and just a little crispy on the edges.

this Recipe

I first created this recipe on a lazy Sunday afternoon, staring into my fridge and wondering what to do with some leftover BBQ chicken. One thing led to another, and within minutes, the comforting scent of toasted bread and bubbling cheese filled the kitchen. It’s since become a go-to for quick lunches, cozy dinners, and late-night cravings alike.

Let me show you why this sandwich deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Get ready to discover your new favorite comfort food. This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese brings together everything you love about a hearty meal, with the ease of a simple sandwich.

First, it’s unbelievably quick to make. From start to finish, you’re looking at just 20 minutes — even less if you already have the chicken prepped. That makes it ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you need something satisfying in a hurry.

It’s also incredibly easy. No complicated steps or fancy equipment needed. If you can butter bread and turn on a stove, you can make this sandwich like a pro.

This recipe is budget-friendly, too. It uses common pantry staples and leftover chicken, making it a smart and tasty way to stretch your grocery dollars.

And let’s not forget the versatility. You can use different types of bread, swap in other cheeses, or even add extras like red onions or jalapeños. It’s endlessly customizable to suit your tastes and what you have on hand.

Once you’ve tried it, this sandwich will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into what makes it so special.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is all about layering simple, flavorful ingredients in just the right way. Each one brings something important to the table.

Shredded BBQ Chicken is the star of this recipe. You can use homemade, store-bought, or leftover chicken tossed in your favorite BBQ sauce. I prefer a slightly smoky, slightly sweet sauce for the best balance of flavor. If you're starting from scratch, rotisserie chicken works beautifully here—just shred and sauce it up.

Cheddar Cheese adds that classic sharp, melty bite we all crave in a grilled cheese. I like using a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for a creamier melt and a more layered flavor. Pre-shredded works in a pinch, but freshly grated always melts better.

Sourdough Bread gives the sandwich a hearty, slightly tangy base that holds up well to all that gooey filling. You can swap in white, whole wheat, or even Texas toast if that’s what you prefer. The important thing is that the bread is thick enough to crisp up without falling apart.

Butter is what creates that golden, crunchy crust on the outside. You want to use softened, spreadable butter so it coats the bread evenly. You can also use mayonnaise if you prefer — it toasts beautifully and adds an extra layer of flavor.

No fancy equipment is needed for this one. Just a good nonstick skillet or griddle and a spatula will do the trick.

How To Make This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Making this sandwich is as easy as it gets, but a few small tips will help you get it just right. Here’s how to build the ultimate BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese from start to finish.

Start by preparing your chicken. If it’s not already shredded and sauced, do that now. Combine your chicken with enough BBQ sauce to coat it generously without making it too wet. You want it juicy but not dripping — soggy bread is the enemy here.

Next, lay out your slices of bread on a clean surface. Butter one side of each slice all the way to the edges. Flip them over and begin building the sandwich on the unbuttered side. Start with a layer of shredded cheese, then pile on the BBQ chicken, and top it off with another layer of cheese. Finish it with the second slice of bread, buttered side out.

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place your sandwich in the pan. Press down gently with a spatula to help it brown evenly. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.

Flip the sandwich carefully and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. If the bread is browning too quickly before the cheese has fully melted, reduce the heat slightly and cover the pan with a lid to help it melt faster.

Once both sides are perfectly toasted and the cheese is melted, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it rest for about a minute before slicing. This helps the cheese set just enough so it doesn’t all ooze out when you cut into it.

From prep to plate, you’re looking at about 15-20 minutes total. Expect crispy edges, gooey insides, and one seriously satisfying bite.

Storage Options

This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet when everything is hot and melty. But if you have leftovers or want to make a few extra, you’ve got options.

To store, let the sandwiches cool completely, then wrap them in foil or place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.

For freezing, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating is best done in a skillet over low heat to re-crisp the bread and warm the filling evenly. Avoid the microwave — it tends to make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can switch things up. Whether you’re missing an ingredient or just want to try something new, here are a few ideas.

Try swapping the cheddar for mozzarella, provolone, or even pepper jack if you want a little kick. Mixing cheeses gives the sandwich more complexity and an extra-gooey texture.

Change up the protein by using pulled pork, chopped brisket, or even leftover turkey. Any meat that pairs well with BBQ sauce will shine in this sandwich.

Want to sneak in some veggies? Add thinly sliced red onions, jalapeños, or even a handful of coleslaw right in the sandwich for extra crunch and flavor.

If you’re cutting back on carbs, you can make this as a grilled cheese wrap using a tortilla, or even serve it open-faced on a single slice of bread under the broiler.

And of course, if you love heat, drizzle in a little hot sauce or use a spicy BBQ sauce to kick things up a notch.

Once you’ve made it your own, this recipe will become a personalized comfort food classic. Don’t be afraid to get creative — it’s hard to go wrong when cheese and BBQ are involved.

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