Bbq Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

There's nothing quite like biting into a perfectly crispy, gooey grilled cheese sandwich. But when you add smoky BBQ chicken into the mix, it takes comfort food to a whole new level. The tangy sauce, melty cheese, and buttery bread create a flavor combination that’s downright addictive.

I first made this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese on a lazy Sunday afternoon, trying to reinvent some leftover grilled chicken. Since then, it’s become a lunchtime staple in our house. Quick, easy, and always satisfying, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself craving often.

Let’s dive into what makes this sandwich so irresistible.

Why You'll Love This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite grilled cheese variation. This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese isn’t just another sandwich — it’s an explosion of flavor that’s as simple as it is satisfying.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare. With pre-cooked or leftover chicken, you can have this sandwich on the table in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weekdays or a low-effort weekend lunch.

Next, it’s wonderfully budget-friendly. All you need are a few basic ingredients you likely already have on hand: bread, cheese, BBQ sauce, and chicken. No fancy shopping trips required.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. Whether you use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breasts, or even shredded chicken thighs, it works beautifully every time. You can easily adjust the BBQ sauce's sweetness or spiciness to suit your taste.

Finally, it’s a family favorite. Kids adore the cheesy goodness while adults appreciate the smoky, savory depth the BBQ sauce adds. It’s one of those rare meals that everyone at the table can agree on.

Now, let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering sandwich.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Each element plays a key role in building the perfect bite.

The bread is your foundation. A sturdy option like sourdough or Texas toast works best because it holds up well to the fillings without becoming soggy. The thick slices crisp up beautifully in the pan, giving you that satisfying crunch with every bite.

For the chicken, I typically use leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces. It adds a nice smokiness and stays juicy, but you can easily substitute any cooked chicken you have available.

The BBQ sauce is where you can personalize the flavor. I prefer a smoky, slightly sweet sauce, but feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade version. If you like a bit of heat, a spicy BBQ sauce adds a delicious kick.

The cheese is what ties everything together. I love using a combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella. The cheddar provides bold flavor, while the mozzarella offers that dreamy, stretchy melt that makes grilled cheese so satisfying.

You’ll also need a bit of butter for spreading on the bread. This ensures a golden, crispy exterior that’s simply irresistible. A non-stick skillet or griddle will make cooking the sandwiches a breeze.

How To Make This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Making this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is surprisingly simple, but a few key tips will ensure sandwich perfection every time.

Start by prepping your filling. In a medium bowl, combine your shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce, stirring until the chicken is evenly coated. This helps ensure that every bite is packed with smoky, tangy flavor.

Lay out your bread slices on a cutting board or clean surface. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice. This buttered side will be the outside of your sandwich, creating that signature golden crust when grilled.

Flip the slices over and begin assembling. On the unbuttered side of one slice, layer your cheese — start with cheddar, then add a generous spoonful of the BBQ chicken mixture, and top it with mozzarella. The double layer of cheese not only melts better but also helps hold the filling together.

Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out. Gently press down to compact the sandwich slightly, which will help with even cooking and melting.

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully place your sandwich in the pan. The lower heat allows the cheese to melt fully without burning the bread. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is gooey and melted.

Remove from the pan and let it sit for a minute before slicing. This brief rest allows the cheese to settle slightly, making for a cleaner cut and a perfect cheese pull.

In total, you’re looking at about 15-20 minutes from start to finish — a quick and rewarding meal any time of day.

Storage Options

While grilled cheese is always best enjoyed fresh off the skillet, you can store leftovers if needed. Wrap any uneaten sandwiches tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container.

In the refrigerator, they’ll keep for up to 2 days. Just note that the bread may lose some of its crispiness during storage.

For longer storage, you can freeze assembled (but not yet cooked) sandwiches. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, simply thaw and grill as usual.

To reheat, place refrigerated sandwiches back into a skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes per side. This helps restore some of the original crispness while evenly warming the filling. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the bread soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is how easily it adapts to your preferences and pantry.

If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can substitute pulled pork for a Southern twist. The sweet and smoky BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with tender, shredded pork.

For a vegetarian option, try using grilled portobello mushrooms. Slice them thin, marinate briefly in BBQ sauce, and cook them before adding to your sandwich for a meaty, satisfying bite without the meat.

You can experiment with different cheeses as well. Smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack add unique flavors and melty goodness.

Don’t hesitate to spice things up by adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce inside the sandwich for a little extra heat.

Finally, you can elevate the sandwich by adding a thin layer of caramelized onions for a sweet, savory balance that complements the BBQ flavor perfectly.

Feel free to play around and make this sandwich your own. The combinations are practically endless, and each variation offers a delicious twist on the original.

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