BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Description of this recipe: This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. It combines the smoky-sweet flavors of BBQ chicken with the cheesy goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich, creating a satisfying and craveable meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack.

Why you will love this recipe:

It’s a flavor bomb: The combination of tangy BBQ sauce, savory chicken, melted cheese, and toasted bread creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
It’s quick and easy: This recipe comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something delicious without a lot of effort.
It’s customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to your preferences by using different types of cheese, BBQ sauce, or adding your favorite toppings.
It’s comforting: There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy grilled cheese sandwich, and this BBQ Chicken version takes it to the next level.
It’s a crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves a good grilled cheese, and the addition of BBQ chicken makes it even more appealing to both kids and adults.

Introduction

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a timeless classic. Simple, comforting, and endlessly adaptable, they are a staple in many households. But sometimes, we crave something more than just cheese and bread. That’s where this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese comes in. It takes the familiar comfort of a grilled cheese and elevates it with the bold and smoky flavors of BBQ chicken. Think of it as a gourmet grilled cheese experience, without the gourmet effort.

This recipe is designed to be simple and straightforward, using readily available ingredients. It’s perfect for those days when you’re short on time but still want a satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or a fun snack, this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is sure to hit the spot.

We’ll start by preparing the BBQ chicken mixture, combining shredded chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce. Then, we’ll assemble the sandwiches with plenty of cheese and optional toppings like red onion and cilantro. Finally, we’ll grill them to golden-brown perfection, ensuring the cheese is melty and gooey.

Get ready to experience a flavor explosion between two slices of bread!

Ingredients:

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded: Leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even canned chicken (drained) will work perfectly. Shredding the chicken ensures it distributes evenly throughout the sandwich.
1/2 cup BBQ sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce – sweet, smoky, tangy, or spicy – to customize the flavor of the sandwich. Experiment with different varieties to find your perfect match.
8 slices of bread: Choose a sturdy bread that can hold up to the filling. Sourdough, Texas toast, or even a classic white bread will work well. The thicker the bread, the more robust the sandwich will be.
4 tbsp butter, softened: Softened butter is essential for achieving a golden-brown, crispy crust on the bread. You can also use mayonnaise for an extra-crispy and tangy crust.
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend): A blend of cheeses adds complexity and flavor. Cheddar provides a sharp, tangy taste, while mozzarella offers a creamy, melty texture. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional): Red onion adds a pop of color and a mild, sweet-and-pungent flavor that complements the BBQ chicken. Slicing it thinly ensures it cooks evenly and doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional): Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the BBQ chicken and cheese. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with chopped parsley or chives.

Preparation:

Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Stir well until the chicken is evenly coated. This ensures that every bite of the sandwich is packed with flavor. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra BBQ sauce if you prefer a saucier filling. This step can be done ahead of time, allowing the chicken to marinate in the BBQ sauce for even more flavor.

Step 2: Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread. The butter helps the bread to brown beautifully and creates a crispy, golden-brown crust. Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy spreading. Alternatively, you can use mayonnaise for a tangier and even crispier crust.

Step 3: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. The key to a perfectly grilled cheese is to use medium heat. If the heat is too high, the bread will burn before the cheese melts. If the heat is too low, the bread will become soggy. A cast-iron skillet or a non-stick griddle works best for even heat distribution.

Step 4: Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, onto the hot skillet. This ensures that the buttered side gets beautifully browned and crispy. Top with 1/4 cup of shredded cheese, followed by 1/4 cup of the BBQ chicken mixture. If using, add a few thinly sliced red onion rings and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Finish with another 1/4 cup of cheese on top. The layering of cheese above and below the chicken helps to bind the sandwich together and creates a gooey, melty interior.

Step 5: Place another slice of bread on top, butter-side up. The butter on the top slice will also help it to brown and crisp up during cooking. Gently press down on the sandwich with a spatula to help the layers meld together.

Step 6: Cook until the bottom slice is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt, about 3-4 minutes. Use a spatula to carefully check the bottom of the sandwich for doneness. You want a nice, even golden-brown color.

Step 7: Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted, another 3-4 minutes. Use a wide spatula to flip the sandwich carefully, avoiding any spillage of the filling. Continue to press down gently with the spatula to ensure even cooking and melting.

Step 8: Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make more sandwiches. Work in batches if necessary, ensuring that the skillet or griddle remains at a consistent medium heat.

Step 9: Serve hot and enjoy! Cut the sandwiches in half diagonally for a classic presentation.

COOKING Rating:

Ease: Easy
Flavor: Bold and Delicious
Time: Quick (under 20 minutes)
Appeal: Kid-Friendly, Crowd-Pleaser

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a classic BBQ meal.
Pair with a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting and satisfying lunch.
Serve with pickle spears for a tangy contrast to the rich sandwich.
Cut into smaller portions and serve as appetizers for a party.
Add a side of sweet potato fries for a sweet and savory combination.

Tips:

Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook the sandwiches in batches to ensure even browning.
Use a non-stick skillet or griddle: This will prevent the bread from sticking and make flipping easier.
Keep the heat at medium: This will allow the cheese to melt without burning the bread.
Press down on the sandwiches with a spatula: This will help the layers meld together and create a cohesive sandwich.
Get creative with your toppings: Add bacon, avocado, jalapenos, or other toppings to customize your sandwich.

Prep Time:

5 minutes

Cook Time:

10-12 minutes

Total Time:

15-17 minutes

Nutritional Information:

(Note: Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

Calories: Approximately 450-550 per sandwich Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams per sandwich Sodium: Approximately 600-800 mg per sandwich

Conclusion

This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a delightful and satisfying twist on a classic comfort food. It’s quick, easy, and customizable, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or a fun snack, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to experience a flavor explosion between two slices of bread! Enjoy!

Questions and Answers about this Recipe:

Q1: Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

A: Absolutely! One of the great things about grilled cheese is its versatility. While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, provolone, pepper jack (for a spicy kick), Gruyere (for a nutty flavor), or even a smoked Gouda. A blend of cheeses can also add complexity and depth of flavor. Consider the melting properties of the cheese you choose; some cheeses melt more easily and create a smoother, gooier texture than others. Don’t be afraid to get creative and find your perfect cheese combination!

Q2: What’s the best way to prevent the bread from burning while the cheese is melting?

A: The key is to maintain a medium heat setting on your skillet or griddle. Too high of a heat will cause the bread to brown too quickly, resulting in a burnt exterior and unmelted cheese inside. If you notice the bread browning too fast, reduce the heat slightly. You can also try using a lower fat butter or mayonnaise spread on the outside of the bread because the higher fat content can burn more easily. Patience is key – low and slow is the motto here!

Q3: Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian. Simply substitute the shredded chicken with a plant-based alternative like jackfruit “pulled pork” or seasoned and shredded tofu. You can also use marinated tempeh or grilled halloumi cheese for a heartier vegetarian option. Consider adding some grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

Q4: Can I prepare the BBQ chicken mixture ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Preparing the BBQ chicken mixture in advance is a great time-saver. You can make it up to 2-3 days ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In fact, allowing the chicken to marinate in the BBQ sauce for a longer period will actually enhance the flavor. Just make sure to bring the chicken mixture to room temperature before assembling the sandwiches for even cooking.

Q5: What are some other toppings I can add to this grilled cheese?

A: The possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky and savory element.
Avocado: Sliced avocado adds a creamy and healthy touch.
Jalapenos: For a spicy kick, add sliced or pickled jalapenos.
Pickled onions: Tangy pickled onions add a bright and contrasting flavor.
Caramelized onions: Sweet and savory caramelized onions add depth of flavor.
Spinach or kale: Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale for added nutrients.
Pineapple: Grilled pineapple adds a sweet and tangy flavor.
A fried egg: Top the finished sandwich with a fried egg for an extra protein boost and a decadent touch.