Name: Savory BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese for Ultimate Comfort Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Can substitute with avocado oil.); 1 medium Red Onion (Can substitute with yellow onion.); 2 cloves Garlic (Fresh is preferable; garlic powder works if necessary.); 2 cups Shredded Roasted Chicken (Can use leftover pulled chicken.); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Smoked paprika enhances BBQ flavor.); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (Soy sauce can be a substitute.); 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce (Use your favorite variety.); 8 slices Havarti Cheese (Substitute with cheddar or Monterrey Jack if desired.); 2 tablespoons Butter (Olive oil can be used as a lighter alternative.); 6 slices Sourdough Bread (Challah or whole wheat bread are good alternatives.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the warm scent of grilling bread danced around me, teasing my taste buds with memories of summer barbecues. This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich brings together two beloved classics: the comfort of gooey cheese and the smoky allure of BBQ chicken. It’s not just another sandwich; it’s an express ticket to flavor town, crafted for those busy weeknights when you crave something quick yet extraordinary. Not only is it a satisfying crowd-pleaser, but it also offers flexible ingredient options, catering to both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can transform humble bites into an indulgent treat. Ready to elevate your grilled cheese game? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why is BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: The smoky BBQ chicken, combined with ooey-gooey Havarti cheese, creates an unforgettable taste that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Quick to Prepare: This sandwich comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Versatile Ingredient Options: Feel free to swap in roasted veggies or try BBQ-seasoned tofu for a delicious vegetarian variation. You can even spice it up with sliced jalapeños if you’re looking for an extra kick!

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is sure to impress and delight your guests.

Perfect Pairings: Enhance your meal by pairing with a crisp salad or classic coleslaw, serving extra BBQ sauce for dipping, and turning a simple dish into a remarkable feast!

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Ingredients

For the Filling

Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing the onions and garlic for added richness; swap with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
Red Onion – Provides a sweet and tangy flavor; yellow onion can be used as a milder alternative.
Garlic – Essential aromatics for flavor; fresh cloves are preferable, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Shredded Roasted Chicken – The heartiness of this main protein brings the magic; leftover pulled chicken is also a great option.
Paprika – Adds depth and warmth; smoked paprika beautifully enhances the BBQ flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce – Introduces a rich umami taste; soy sauce can serve as a good substitute.
BBQ Sauce – Provides the signature sweetness and tang; use your favorite store-bought or homemade variety.

For the Cheese and Bread

Havarti Cheese – Melts beautifully into gooey goodness; feel free to swap for cheddar or Monterrey Jack for different flavors.
Butter – Critical for grilling to achieve that golden-brown crust; olive oil is a lighter alternative.
Sourdough Bread – Perfectly sturdy for grilling; consider using challah or whole wheat bread as tasty alternatives.

Transform your mealtime with this delightful BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese that combines comforting flavors into an extraordinary experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat for about two minutes. Add the sliced red onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it softens and turns translucent. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese delight.

Step 2: Add the Garlic
Once the onions are tender, stir in minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, just until fragrant. You’ll notice the garlic starts to turn golden, releasing an irresistible aroma. This step enhances the flavor profile, preparing your mixture for the next delicious addition.

Step 3: Incorporate the Chicken and Spices
Now, add the shredded roasted chicken, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet, mixing everything thoroughly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through, and the chicken is slightly golden. Then pour in your favorite BBQ sauce, allowing it to simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes, transforming your filling into a smoky, flavorful blend.

Step 4: Create the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine softened butter with minced garlic and a pinch of parsley to create a flavorful garlic butter. Mix until smooth and infused, providing a rich, aromatic spread for your bread. This will help achieve a crispy, golden crust for your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese.

Step 5: Butter the Bread
Spread the garlic butter generously on one side of each slice of sourdough. Be sure to cover all the edges as this will ensure an even browning while grilling. The buttery touch adds richness that complements the savory filling perfectly.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches
On the unbuttered side of six slices of bread, layer two slices of Havarti cheese. Spoon an ample amount of the BBQ chicken mixture on top, followed by another two slices of cheese for extra gooeyness. Finally, place the remaining bread slices on top, butter-side up, preparing them for grilling.

Step 7: Grill to Perfection
Place the assembled sandwiches on your preheated skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grill for 3-5 minutes on each side until the bread is golden brown, and cheese is melted and oozy. Keep an eye on the sandwiches, flipping carefully with a spatula to avoid spilling the delicious filling during this savory transformation.

Step 8: Serve and Relish
Once grilled to perfection, remove your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese from the skillet and allow it to cool for a minute. Slice each sandwich in half to reveal the melty goodness inside, and serve immediately. Pair with coleslaw or a salad, plus extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping, making every bite an indulgent experience.

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this sandwich for any taste preference or diet!

Vegetarian: Replace pulled chicken with grilled halloumi or smoky roasted sweet potatoes for a satisfying swap.
Imagine the smoky flavor mingling with creamy cheese, creating a delightful vegetarian version that won’t disappoint.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños to the BBQ chicken mixture for an extra layer of heat.
Perfect for those who crave a little zest, this addition will elevate the flavor experience while still packing that comfort.
Caramelized Onions: Incorporate caramelized onions instead of sautéed onions for a deeper sweetness.
The contrasting flavors with the BBQ chicken will make this sandwich an even bigger treat for your taste buds.
Smoked Paprika: Substituting regular paprika for smoked paprika will intensify that BBQ flavor.
The result? A sandwich that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, bringing warmth in every bite.
Different Cheese: Swap Havarti for cheddar or Monterey Jack to explore new cheesy delights.
Each cheese will lend its rich personality, allowing you to discover your favorite combination.
Grilled Veggie Mix: For a heartier option, toss in a mix of grilled veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
This keeps the sandwich fresh and adds a satisfying texture alongside the rich BBQ chicken.
BBQ Sauce Variety: Experiment with different BBQ sauces, such as honey BBQ or chipotle barbecue, for unique flavor profiles.
Finding your favorite sauce can make an exciting difference, allowing you the opportunity to personalize every sandwich.
Dip It: Serve your grilled cheese with a side of extra BBQ sauce or zesty ranch for dipping.
The added element of dipping can enhance the enjoyment, turning a simple meal into a fun experience.

No matter how you choose to customize this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese, each variation offers a new delightful way to enjoy a comforting classic! If you’re looking for new flavor combos, you might also enjoy these Sweet Chili Chicken Wraps or the Flavor Packed Chicken Torta Sandwich!

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?

Enhance your delightful BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese experience with these perfect pairings that balance flavors and textures beautifully.

Crispy Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich sandwich, making each bite a tasty harmony.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette provides a fresh palate cleanser, keeping the meal vibrant and balanced.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries bring a sweet, earthy element that complements the smoky BBQ flavor perfectly, adding satisfying crunch.
Pickles or Pickled Veggies: The tangy brightness of pickles cuts through the richness, enhancing the sandwich’s flavors and adding a delicious zing.
Roasted Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn serves as a wonderful side, evoking summer barbecues and adding sweetness to your plate.
Sparkling Lemonade: A bright, fizzy drink refreshes your palate with its zesty flavor, making it a delightful accompaniment to the hearty sandwich.
Chocolate Brownie: Finish your meal with a rich chocolate brownie for a satisfying sweet note that contrasts beautifully with the savory sandwich.
BBQ Sauce Dip: Serve extra BBQ sauce on the side for those who want to experience even more of that tangy goodness.
Grilled Vegetables: Add some smoky, charred veggies to the mix for extra nutrition and a colorful presentation on your plate.

How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Fridge: Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the sandwiches separate to maintain their crispiness.

Freezer: Wrap assembled and cooled sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw sandwiches overnight in the fridge and then grill them over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side until warmed through and crispy. Enjoy the delicious flavors of your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the BBQ chicken mixture ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 3 days before assembling the sandwiches for quick meals.

Helpful Tricks for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Hot Skillet First: Ensure your skillet is preheated properly; a hot surface is key to achieving that perfect crispy crust.

Keep It Loose: Avoid overfilling your sandwiches to prevent spills; a generous but manageable amount of BBQ chicken filling keeps flavor intact.

Rotate Carefully: Use a sturdy spatula to flip the sandwiches; gentle handling avoids mess while keeping that gooey cheese within.

Go for Quality: Choose a BBQ sauce that you love, as it’s the star of your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Cook in Batches: If making multiple sandwiches, grill them in batches to prevent overcrowding, ensuring each one maintains its golden-brown perfection.

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the BBQ chicken filling up to 3 days in advance by sautéing the onions and garlic, then mixing in the shredded chicken, spices, and BBQ sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together. Simply refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. To enjoy fresh sandwiches later, assemble the sandwiches with garlic butter and cheese just before grilling. When ready to serve, grill for 3-5 minutes per side until golden and melty. This method not only saves you time on busy weeknights but ensures your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is just as delightful!

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using shredded roasted chicken. If you have leftover pulled chicken from a previous meal, it works wonderfully too! You can also opt for rotisserie chicken, as it’s already seasoned and flavorful.

How do I store leftover BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the bread crispy, I suggest placing parchment paper between the sandwiches before sealing. This helps maintain that delightful texture!

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwiches?
Yes, you can! First, allow the sandwiches to cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and grill them over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side until they’re nice and crispy.

What are some common troubleshooting tips for making BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
If your cheese isn’t melting properly, it might be because the heat was too high. Ensure you’re grilling on medium heat to allow the cheese to melt evenly while keeping the bread from burning. Additionally, if you find your sandwiches are too greasy, try reducing the amount of butter or oil used on each slice of bread.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese. Use gluten-free bread for those with gluten sensitivities and opt for dairy-free cheese to accommodate lactose intolerance. If making it vegetarian, try using smoky roasted sweet potatoes or BBQ-seasoned tofu instead of chicken for a delicious alternative!