BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. With a delightful combination of garlicky buttered bread, savory BBQ chicken, and creamy Havarti cheese, this sandwich brings joy to your dinner table. It’s an ideal choice for family meals, game day snacks, or even casual gatherings with friends. The unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of BBQ chicken and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering taste that satisfies any craving.
  • Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this sandwich with different types of cheese or bread to suit your preferences.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: These sandwiches are sure to impress guests at parties or gatherings, making them a go-to option for entertaining.
  • Comfort Food Classic: Indulge in the warm, gooey goodness that makes grilled cheese sandwiches a beloved favorite.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Importance of Each Tool

  • Skillet or frying pan: Essential for achieving that golden-brown crust on the bread while melting the cheese inside.
  • Spatula: Helps flip the sandwiches without tearing them apart.
  • Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like onions and garlic.
  • Knife: Necessary for slicing bread and preparing vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Mixture

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 ½ cups shredded roasted chicken
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce

For the Sandwich Assembly

  • 12 slices Havarti cheese
  • ¼ cup butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons parsley, minced
  • 12 slices sourdough bread or sturdy white bread

How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
  2. Add the sliced red onion and cook until soft.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  4. Add shredded chicken, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce; mix well. Cook until heated through.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

  1. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
  2. Place unbuttered side down on a clean surface.
  3. Layer with 1 slice of Havarti cheese followed by a generous scoop of the BBQ chicken mixture.
  4. Top with another slice of Havarti cheese and cover with another slice of bread (buttered side up).

Step 3: Cook the Sandwiches

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Carefully place each sandwich in the skillet once hot.
  3. Cook until golden brown on one side (about 3-4 minutes).
  4. Flip carefully using a spatula; cook until both sides are golden brown and cheese is melted.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Remove sandwiches from skillet and let cool slightly before slicing in half.
  2. Garnish with minced parsley if desired.
  3. Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are deliciously versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Classic Pairings

  • Chips: Serve with crunchy potato chips for added texture.
  • Pickles: A side of dill pickles can enhance the flavors and provide a tangy contrast.

Fresh Salads

  • Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the richness of the sandwich well.
  • Coleslaw: The crunchiness and creaminess of coleslaw balance the BBQ flavors beautifully.

Dipping Sauces

  • Extra BBQ Sauce: Provide extra BBQ sauce for dipping to keep those flavors front and center.
  • Ranch Dressing: A side of ranch dressing offers a creamy, cool counterpart to the hot sandwich.

Beverages

  • Iced Tea: Sweetened iced tea is refreshing and pairs nicely with the smoky flavors.
  • Lemonade: A cool glass of lemonade can cut through the richness and add a zesty kick.

How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Creating the perfect BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your sandwich turns out amazing every time.

  • Use fresh bread: Fresh sourdough or sturdy white bread provides the best texture for grilling.
  • Don’t skimp on cheese: Layering enough Havarti cheese guarantees a melty, gooey delight.
  • Cook on low heat: Cooking on medium-low allows the cheese to melt thoroughly without burning the bread.
  • Add seasoning: Sprinkling a little extra paprika or black pepper can enhance flavor profiles significantly.
  • Let it rest before slicing: Allowing the sandwich to rest for a minute helps maintain its structure when cutting.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Pairing your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich with the right sides can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options.

  1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast to the savory sandwich.
  2. Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup is a classic pairing that adds comfort to your meal.
  3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob offers a sweet crunch that complements BBQ flavors perfectly.
  4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness and a touch of sweetness to balance rich flavors.
  5. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad makes for a hearty side that pairs well with grilled dishes.
  6. Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans add depth and another layer of flavor alongside your sandwich.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

  • Using stale bread: Fresh bread gives the sandwich a better texture. Use freshly baked or high-quality sourdough for the best results.
  • Overcooking the chicken: If you overcook the chicken, it can become dry. Make sure to heat it just enough to warm through without drying out.
  • Not measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for your BBQ sauce and spices.
  • Skipping the garlic butter: The garlic butter adds flavor and richness. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for a delicious, golden crust.
  • Ignoring cheese quality: Low-quality cheese won’t melt well. Opt for good quality Havarti for that creamy, melty goodness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • item Keep leftover BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches in an airtight container.
  • item Consume within 3–4 days for best taste and freshness.

Freezing BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

  • item Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
  • item Place wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to 2 months.

Reheating BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the sandwich in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until hot, but be careful as this may make the bread soggy.
  • Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter, then grill the sandwich until both sides are golden brown and heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches.

What type of bread is best for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich?

Sourdough or sturdy white bread works best due to their ability to hold up against the fillings without becoming soggy.

Can I customize my BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich?

Absolutely! You can add jalapeños for spice, different cheeses, or even veggies like spinach or peppers for added flavor.

How do I make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich vegetarian?

You can substitute chicken with grilled mushrooms or jackfruit mixed with BBQ sauce for a tasty vegetarian option.

What is the best cheese for a BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich?

Havarti is excellent because it melts beautifully, but you can also try cheddar or mozzarella if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit different tastes. Feel free to experiment with ingredients or serve them alongside your favorite sides. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love its savory flavors!

Print
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BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches


  • Author: Cecilia
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are the ultimate indulgence, combining the rich flavors of smoky BBQ chicken with creamy Havarti cheese, all encased in perfectly toasted bread. This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be whipped up in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. With a crispy exterior and gooey interior, these sandwiches are sure to please everyone at your table. Pair them with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that brings comfort and joy to any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 ½ cups shredded roasted chicken
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 12 slices Havarti cheese
  • ¼ cup butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons parsley, minced
  • 12 slices sourdough or sturdy white bread

Instructions

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the onion until soft. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  2. Stir in shredded chicken, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce; heat through.
  3. Butter one side of each bread slice. On unbuttered side, place a slice of cheese followed by BBQ chicken mixture and another slice of cheese. Top with another slice of bread (buttered side up).
  4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook sandwiches until golden brown on both sides and cheese is melted.
  5. Let cool slightly before slicing in half and serve warm.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 540
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 930mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 29g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Use fresh sourdough for the best texture. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella. For added spice, consider adding jalapeños to the chicken mixture.

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Cecilia

Pro Chef & Blogger

Welcome to my culinary corner, where passion meets the plate! I’m a chef with a love for creating delicious and inspiring dishes. Here, I’ll share my best recipes, tips, and tricks to help you bring a taste of magic into your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find something to ignite your passion for cooking. Join me on this flavorful journey and let’s make every meal memorable. Happy cooking.

Cecilia