Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you today! Let me tell you, BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is not just a meal; it’s an experience! I remember the first time I whipped this up; it was a rainy Saturday afternoon, and I just felt like curling up with something comforting. As I melted that gooey cheese over tender BBQ chicken between two crispy slices of bread, I knew I had hit the culinary jackpot.
This recipe combines the smoky, tangy flavor of BBQ chicken with the ultimate comfort food—grilled cheese. It brings me back to summer BBQs when the smell of grilling chicken filled the air, and we’d sit around the table with friends, sharing stories and laughter. With this recipe, you can recreate those memories right in your kitchen, no matter the season!
What’s in BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
BBQ Sauce: The star of the show! I absolutely love using a smoky barbecue sauce that’s sticky-sweet. Any brand you dig will do, but I always have a bottle of Sweet Baby Ray’s on hand—it’s just a classic!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken is perfect for this recipe. I often use leftovers from a rotisserie chicken—it takes a lot of prep work out of the equation, and it adds wonderful flavor.
Cheese: You can’t have a grilled cheese without cheese, right? I recommend a combination of sharp cheddar for that tangy flavor and mozzarella for that gooey stretch. The more, the merrier!
Bread: Go for a sturdy bread that can hold all the goodness without falling apart. I love sourdough or a thick-cut white bread—it toasts beautifully and has great flavor.
Butter: To get that perfect golden crust. You can even use garlic butter for an extra layer of flavor—trust me, it’s worth it!
Is BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about health in the midst of indulgence! BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is definitely a comfort food, but that doesn’t mean it can’t have its benefits.
Cooked Chicken: Not only provides protein but also essential nutrients. If you choose lean chicken, it’s a heart-healthy option too.
Cheese: Packed with calcium and protein, cheese does have its merits. However, moderation is key for those watching their saturated fat intake!
Keep in mind that this is a richer meal, so perhaps enjoy it with a side of fresh veggies or a light salad to balance things out. Trust your inner foodie—everything in moderation, right?
Ingredients
– 2 slices of crusty bread (sourdough or thick-cut white)
– 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s or your favorite brand)
– 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1-2 tablespoons butter (or garlic butter for extra flavor)
– Optional: Coleslaw for topping
This recipe serves 1-2 people, depending on how hungry you are!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
1. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until well combined. This is where the flavor magic happens!
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat. While it’s heating, butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place one slice of bread butter-side-down onto the skillet. Layer on half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. Spoon half of the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese, then top with the remaining cheese and another slice of bread, butter-side-up.
5. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwich over and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes, until that cheesy goodness is melted inside and the bread is toasty.
6. Remove from the skillet, let it cool for a minute, and if you like, toss some coleslaw on top for a crunchy twist. Cut it in half, and voilà!
Let’s Get Fancy!
This is your canvas—feel free to mix it up! You could add some sautéed onions or jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even consider spreading a thin layer of cream cheese on the bread for extra creaminess. Not a fan of chicken? Swap it out for pulled pork or even a veggie mix.
Lastly, pair it with a crisp salad or some sweet potato fries for the perfect meal.
I can’t wait for you to try this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese. It’s ridiculously delicious, the kind of comfort food that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. When you give it a go, let me know how it turned out! Happy cooking!
