Few things compare to the oozy, smoky-sweet comfort of a BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich. This recipe takes the classic grilled cheese to new heights with juicy shredded chicken tossed in barbecue sauce, gooey melty cheeses, golden crisp bread, and pops of flavor from your choice of onion or jalapeño. Whether you need a quick lunch, a decadent dinner, or just a way to use up leftover chicken, this irresistible sandwich guarantees big smiles and full bellies!

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich is in its simplicity: each ingredient truly shines and comes together in a harmony of textures and flavors. Don’t skip on quality bread and cheese, and feel free to customize the toppings for your perfect bite.

Thick sandwich bread or sourdough: A sturdy slice holds in all the cheesy, saucy goodness and gets beautifully crisp on the outside.
Butter (softened): Essential for that golden, buttery crunch with every bite; make sure it’s soft so spreading is easy and even.
Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, but any leftover cooked chicken will soak up that BBQ sauce deliciously.
Barbecue sauce: The smoky, tangy-sweet flavor ties everything together—use your favorite brand or homemade for a personal touch.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings that sharp, classic grilled cheese flavor and plenty of rich meltiness.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Makes for an extra stretchy, gooey cheese pull and balances out the sharpness of cheddar.
Thinly sliced red onion (optional): Adds a mild bite and beautiful color contrast to the sandwich—skip if you prefer it milder.
Pickled jalapeños or fresh cilantro for garnish (optional): For those who love a little heat or a burst of freshness, these garnishes make every bite pop!

How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Step 1: Mix Up That BBQ Chicken

Start by tossing your shredded chicken with barbecue sauce in a small bowl. This step ensures that every strand of chicken is coated in sticky, smoky-sweet BBQ flavor before it even hits the sandwich, making your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich deeply flavorful in every bite.

Step 2: Butter the Bread

Generously butter one side of each bread slice. The softened butter spreads easily and promises an even, golden crust when grilled. Don’t be shy—this is the foundation of classic grilled cheese texture!

Step 3: Layer Cheese and Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat and place one slice of bread, buttered side down, into the pan. Sprinkle on half of the cheddar and mozzarella, creating a cheesy base to hold in the fillings. Add your BBQ chicken mixture, a scattering of thinly sliced red onion if you like, and then the remaining cheese. The extra cheese on top acts as a delicious “glue” for the second slice of bread.

Step 4: Grill to Golden Perfection

Top everything with the second bread slice, buttered side up. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula. The bread should sizzle and toast up gorgeously, while the cheese melts into the barbecue chicken. Flip carefully and don’t rush—golden and crisp is the goal!

Step 5: Slice and Serve the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Once the cheese is luscious and melty and both sides of the bread are perfectly toasted, remove from the skillet. Give your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich a moment to cool, then slice and get ready for the ultimate gooey stretch!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Garnishes

A handful of chopped fresh cilantro adds brightness, while a few pickled jalapeño slices bring just the right hint of heat. If you’re feeling extra, a sprinkle of coarse sea salt or a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce on top makes your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich unforgettable.

Side Dishes

Pair your sandwich with tangy coleslaw, crisp kettle chips, or a handful of sweet potato fries to round out the meal. If you’re leaning lighter, a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette is the perfect fresh counterbalance to the cheesy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack and cut your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich diagonally for that classic café look, or slice it into strips (hello, dunking potential!) for a fun, shareable platter. Serving it on a wooden board with a ramekin of extra BBQ sauce for dipping will turn lunch into an experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil or storing in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though the bread may soften a bit in the fridge.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap cooled sandwiches in parchment, then foil, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you’ll have a nearly instant comfort meal ready whenever cravings strike.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich in a skillet over medium-low heat or use a toaster oven; this brings that crunch and meltiness right back. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While sourdough and thick sandwich bread are classic, you can get creative with multigrain, whole wheat, or even brioche. Just pick a sturdy bread that can stand up to all that cheesy, saucy filling.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes! Substitute shredded jackfruit or pulled plant-based chicken for the meat, toss with BBQ sauce, and follow the rest of the steps just like in the original BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich.

What’s the best cheese blend for maximum melt?

A mix of cheddar and mozzarella creates that amazing stretch and layered flavor, but you can swap in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or gouda for a new twist. Just make sure at least half the cheese is a great melter for the best results.

How can I make the sandwich spicier?

Add pickled jalapeños inside the sandwich or use a spicy barbecue sauce. A pinch of crushed red pepper in the BBQ chicken mixture will also kick things up a notch.

Can I assemble the sandwiches ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! Prep the filling, butter and layer up the sandwiches, then store covered in the fridge. Grill just before serving so your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich is fresh and perfectly melty.

Final Thoughts

You deserve the kind of comfort only a BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich can deliver! Whether it’s a casual weeknight, a quick lunch, or a weekend treat, this recipe promises bold flavor, melty cheese, and that golden crunch everyone loves. Give it a try soon and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite sandwich!

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

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4.6 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 13 minutes
Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich combines the comforting flavors of a classic grilled cheese with the tangy kick of barbecue chicken. It’s a delicious and satisfying twist on a traditional favorite, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread and Butter:

2 slices sourdough or thick sandwich bread
1 tablespoon butter (softened)

BBQ Chicken Filling:

1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken
2 tablespoons barbecue sauce

Cheese and Toppings:

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons thinly sliced red onion (optional)
pickled jalapeños or fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare BBQ Chicken Filling: Toss the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce in a small bowl until well coated.
Assemble the Sandwich: Butter one side of each bread slice. Place one slice, buttered side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Top with half the cheddar and mozzarella, followed by the BBQ chicken, red onion (if using), and the remaining cheese. Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side up.
Cook the Sandwich: Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing slightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden and crisp and the cheese is melted. Remove from the skillet, slice, and serve hot.