Introduction
Craving a comforting, flavor-packed sandwich that combines the smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken with the gooey goodness of melted cheese? BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich is your ultimate indulgence! This recipe features tender shredded chicken coated in tangy BBQ sauce, paired with creamy Havarti cheese and nestled between buttery, garlic-infused sourdough bread. Perfect for quick lunches, cozy dinners, or game-day treats, this sandwich is easy to make and sure to satisfy. Curious about how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece? Let’s dive into this simple recipe that’s bound to become a favorite!
Overview: Why BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich Is Special
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich stands out for its irresistible combination of textures and flavors: crispy, golden bread, melty Havarti cheese, and juicy BBQ chicken with a smoky, tangy kick. The garlic-parsley butter elevates the bread with aromatic richness, while the quick-cooked onions and garlic add depth to the filling. This recipe makes 6 sandwiches, comes together in about 20 minutes, and is versatile enough to customize with different cheeses or breads. Its hearty yet approachable nature, vibrant presentation, and crowd-pleasing appeal make it ideal for casual meals or gatherings.
- Time Requirement:
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 10–13 minutes
- Total: About 20–23 minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy. Involves basic sautéing, assembling, and grilling, perfect for beginners.
- Why It’s Special: This recipe serves 6, offers bold BBQ and cheesy flavors, and is a quick, comforting meal. It’s budget-friendly, great for any season, and ideal for lunches or casual dinners.
Essential Ingredients
This sandwich comes together with ingredients that create a flavorful, satisfying meal. Here’s what you need and why each matters:
BBQ Chicken
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Used for sautéing onions and garlic, adding richness.
- Small Red Onion (1, thinly sliced): Provides sweet, savory depth when softened.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses aromatic, savory flavor.
- Shredded Roasted Chicken (2 ½ cups): Offers tender, protein-packed filling; pre-cooked for convenience.
- Paprika (½ tsp): Adds a subtle smoky warmth.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp): Contributes umami and tangy complexity.
- BBQ Sauce (1 cup): Delivers the signature sweet, smoky, and tangy flavor.
- Havarti Cheese (12 slices): Melts smoothly, adding creamy, mild richness.
Garlic Butter Bread
- Butter (¼ cup): Creates a crispy, golden crust with rich flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds bold, aromatic depth to the bread.
- Parsley (2 tsp, minced): Provides fresh, herbaceous notes.
- Sourdough Bread or Sturdy White Bread (12 slices): Offers a hearty, slightly tangy base that holds up to the filling.
Substitutions and Variations
- Chicken: Swap for shredded rotisserie chicken, pulled pork, or plant-based chicken for vegetarian; adjust BBQ sauce to taste.
- Havarti Cheese: Use cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles; vegan cheese for dairy-free.
- Bread: Substitute with whole wheat, ciabatta, or gluten-free bread; ensure it’s sturdy to handle the filling.
- BBQ Sauce: Use spicy, sweet, or mustard-based BBQ sauce; reduce to ¾ cup for less intensity.
- Onion: Replace with yellow onion or omit for a simpler filling.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and ensure BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.
- Add-Ins: Include sliced jalapeños, bacon, or coleslaw inside the sandwich for extra flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches that are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor:
- Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add 1 thinly sliced red onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in 3 cloves minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add 2 ½ cups shredded roasted chicken, ½ tsp paprika, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1 cup BBQ sauce.
- Stir to combine and cook until heated through, about 2–3 minutes. Set aside.
- Beginner Tip: Stir gently to coat chicken evenly; keep heat medium to avoid burning the sauce.
- Make the Garlic Butter:
- In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine ¼ cup butter, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 2 tsp minced parsley.
- Microwave in 15-second intervals until melted, stirring between intervals (about 30–45 seconds total).
- Beginner Tip: Watch the butter closely to avoid overheating; stir to blend garlic and parsley evenly.
- Prepare the Bread:
- Lay 12 slices of sourdough or sturdy white bread on a work surface.
- Brush or spread the melted garlic butter mixture evenly over one side of each slice.
- Beginner Tip: Use a pastry brush for even application; ensure all slices are coated for maximum flavor.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Flip the bread slices so the buttered side faces down.
- On 6 slices, place 1 slice of Havarti cheese, followed by an even portion of the BBQ chicken mixture (about ⅓–½ cup per sandwich).
- Top the chicken with another slice of Havarti cheese, then place the remaining 6 bread slices on top, buttered side up.
- Beginner Tip: Press gently to secure the filling; distribute chicken evenly to avoid spillage.
- Cook the Sandwiches:
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Place 2–3 sandwiches in the skillet (depending on size) and cook until the bottoms are golden brown, about 3–5 minutes.
- Flip the sandwiches, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook until the other side is browned and the cheese is melted, about 3–5 minutes more.
- Repeat with remaining sandwiches, wiping the skillet if needed to prevent burning.
- Beginner Tip: Press sandwiches lightly with a spatula for even browning; lower heat ensures cheese melts without burning the bread.
- Serve:
- Slice sandwiches in half (diagonally for a classic look) and serve hot, optionally with extra BBQ sauce, pickles, or a side salad.
- Beginner Tip: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts; serve immediately to enjoy the melty cheese.
Cooking Tips
- Chicken Prep: Use pre-shredded rotisserie chicken to save time; ensure it’s warm when assembling for faster cheese melting.
- Cheese Melting: Place cheese on both sides of the filling to create a gooey, cohesive sandwich; Havarti melts quickly but don’t rush the cooking.
- Bread Browning: Cook on medium heat for a golden crust; if browning too fast, lower the heat or add a lid briefly to melt cheese.
- Garlic Butter: Spread butter evenly to avoid soggy spots; refrigerate any leftover butter for other uses (e.g., garlic bread).
- Skillet Size: Use a large skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.
Assembly: Building the Perfect BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
This sandwich is all about creating a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful meal with a comforting presentation. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Chicken Filling:
- Cook onions until soft but not caramelized to retain texture; mix BBQ sauce thoroughly to coat chicken evenly.
- Keep the filling warm to speed up sandwich assembly and cheese melting.
- Sandwich Assembly:
- Layer cheese on both sides of the chicken to ensure a melty, cohesive bite; press filling gently to fit within bread edges.
- Butter the outer sides of the bread generously for a crispy, golden crust and rich garlic flavor.
- Presentation Tips:
- Serve on a wooden board or simple plate to highlight the golden bread and oozing cheese.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley, extra BBQ sauce drizzle, or a pickle spear for a diner-inspired look.
- Pair with fries, coleslaw, or a light cucumber salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Main Dish: Serve as a standalone meal for a quick, hearty lunch or dinner.
- Game Day: Offer with chips, onion rings, or a dipping sauce for a fun, shareable treat.
- Meal Prep: Prepare BBQ chicken filling up to 2 days ahead; assemble and cook sandwiches fresh for best texture.
- Variations: Add a slice of tomato, bacon, or a dash of hot sauce inside for extra flavor.
- Drinks: Pair with a cold soda, iced tea, or a light beer like a lager for a classic combo.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This sandwich is best fresh but can be prepped ahead:
- Refrigerator: Store cooked BBQ chicken filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently before assembling. Assembled, uncooked sandwiches can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 1 day; cook fresh for best results.
- Freezer: Freeze BBQ chicken filling for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat. Bread and cheese don’t freeze well after assembly.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare BBQ chicken and garlic butter up to 2 days in advance; store separately in the fridge. Assemble sandwiches just before cooking to maintain bread texture.
- Serving Tip: Reheat filling slightly before assembling to ensure even warming; cook sandwiches fresh for crispy bread and melty cheese.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese: Add ½ tsp cayenne or a splash of hot sauce to the BBQ chicken mixture.
- Veggie Grilled Cheese: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based chicken; use the same BBQ sauce and spices.
- Cheesy Deluxe: Mix cheddar and Havarti or add a slice of pepper jack for extra kick.
- Gluten-Free Grilled Cheese: Use gluten-free bread and ensure BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.
- Kid-Friendly: Reduce garlic and onion; use milder BBQ sauce and cheddar cheese.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
- Per Serving (1 of 6 sandwiches):
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Note: Values are approximate and depend on specific brands, bread size, and ingredient amounts.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich is the ultimate comfort food, offering smoky BBQ chicken, melty Havarti, and crispy garlic-buttered bread in every delicious bite. With its quick preparation, customizable ingredients, and crowd-pleasing flavors, it’s a must-try for lunches, dinners, or casual gatherings. This recipe is so easy and satisfying, you’ll want to make it a regular in your meal rotation. So fire up that skillet, slather on that BBQ sauce, and get ready to enjoy a sandwich that’s pure cheesy bliss!
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BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Description
Craving a comforting, flavor-packed sandwich that combines the smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken with the gooey goodness of melted cheese? BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich is your ultimate indulgence! This recipe features tender shredded chicken coated in tangy BBQ sauce, paired with creamy Havarti cheese and nestled between buttery, garlic-infused sourdough bread. Perfect for quick lunches, cozy dinners, or game-day treats, this sandwich is easy to make and sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
BBQ Chicken
-
Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Used for sautéing onions and garlic, adding richness.
-
Small Red Onion (1, thinly sliced): Provides sweet, savory depth when softened.
-
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses aromatic, savory flavor.
-
Shredded Roasted Chicken (2 ½ cups): Offers tender, protein-packed filling; pre-cooked for convenience.
-
Paprika (½ tsp): Adds a subtle smoky warmth.
-
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp): Contributes umami and tangy complexity.
-
BBQ Sauce (1 cup): Delivers the signature sweet, smoky, and tangy flavor.
-
Havarti Cheese (12 slices): Melts smoothly, adding creamy, mild richness.
Garlic Butter Bread
-
Butter (¼ cup): Creates a crispy, golden crust with rich flavor.
-
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds bold, aromatic depth to the bread.
-
Parsley (2 tsp, minced): Provides fresh, herbaceous notes.
-
Sourdough Bread or Sturdy White Bread (12 slices): Offers a hearty, slightly tangy base that holds up to the filling.
Substitutions and Variations
-
Chicken: Swap for shredded rotisserie chicken, pulled pork, or plant-based chicken for vegetarian; adjust BBQ sauce to taste.
-
Havarti Cheese: Use cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles; vegan cheese for dairy-free.
-
Bread: Substitute with whole wheat, ciabatta, or gluten-free bread; ensure it’s sturdy to handle the filling.
-
BBQ Sauce: Use spicy, sweet, or mustard-based BBQ sauce; reduce to ¾ cup for less intensity.
-
Onion: Replace with yellow onion or omit for a simpler filling.
-
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and ensure BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.
-
Add-Ins: Include sliced jalapeños, bacon, or coleslaw inside the sandwich for extra flavor and texture.
Instructions
-
Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
-
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
-
Add 1 thinly sliced red onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, about 2 minutes.
-
Stir in 3 cloves minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
-
Add 2 ½ cups shredded roasted chicken, ½ tsp paprika, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1 cup BBQ sauce.
-
Stir to combine and cook until heated through, about 2–3 minutes. Set aside.
-
Beginner Tip: Stir gently to coat chicken evenly; keep heat medium to avoid burning the sauce.
-
-
Make the Garlic Butter:
-
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine ¼ cup butter, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 2 tsp minced parsley.
-
Microwave in 15-second intervals until melted, stirring between intervals (about 30–45 seconds total).
-
Beginner Tip: Watch the butter closely to avoid overheating; stir to blend garlic and parsley evenly.
-
-
Prepare the Bread:
-
Lay 12 slices of sourdough or sturdy white bread on a work surface.
-
Brush or spread the melted garlic butter mixture evenly over one side of each slice.
-
Beginner Tip: Use a pastry brush for even application; ensure all slices are coated for maximum flavor.
-
-
Assemble the Sandwiches:
-
Flip the bread slices so the buttered side faces down.
-
On 6 slices, place 1 slice of Havarti cheese, followed by an even portion of the BBQ chicken mixture (about ⅓–½ cup per sandwich).
-
Top the chicken with another slice of Havarti cheese, then place the remaining 6 bread slices on top, buttered side up.
-
Beginner Tip: Press gently to secure the filling; distribute chicken evenly to avoid spillage.
-
-
Cook the Sandwiches:
-
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
-
Place 2–3 sandwiches in the skillet (depending on size) and cook until the bottoms are golden brown, about 3–5 minutes.
-
Flip the sandwiches, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook until the other side is browned and the cheese is melted, about 3–5 minutes more.
-
Repeat with remaining sandwiches, wiping the skillet if needed to prevent burning.
-
Beginner Tip: Press sandwiches lightly with a spatula for even browning; lower heat ensures cheese melts without burning the bread.
-
-
Serve:
-
Slice sandwiches in half (diagonally for a classic look) and serve hot, optionally with extra BBQ sauce, pickles, or a side salad.
-
Beginner Tip: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts; serve immediately to enjoy the melty cheese.
-
Cooking Tips
-
Chicken Prep: Use pre-shredded rotisserie chicken to save time; ensure it’s warm when assembling for faster cheese melting.
-
Cheese Melting: Place cheese on both sides of the filling to create a gooey, cohesive sandwich; Havarti melts quickly but don’t rush the cooking.
-
Bread Browning: Cook on medium heat for a golden crust; if browning too fast, lower the heat or add a lid briefly to melt cheese.
-
Garlic Butter: Spread butter evenly to avoid soggy spots; refrigerate any leftover butter for other uses (e.g., garlic bread).
-
Skillet Size: Use a large skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Yes! Cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack work well; Havarti melts smoothly, so choose a cheese with good melting properties.
Q: Can I make this without onions or garlic?
A: Yes! Omit onions and garlic for a simpler filling; add extra paprika or a pinch of onion powder to maintain flavor.
Q: Why is my sandwich soggy?
A: Sogginess can result from too much BBQ sauce or undercooked bread. Use a moderate amount of sauce and cook on medium heat for a crispy crust.
Q: Can I grill these on a panini press?
A: Yes! Cook on a preheated panini press for 4–6 minutes until golden and melty; no flipping required.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store BBQ chicken filling in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months; assemble and cook sandwiches fresh. See storage tips above for details.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes! Use plant-based chicken, vegan cheese, and vegan mayo or BBQ sauce; replace butter with vegan margarine and ensure Worcestershire sauce is vegan-friendly.