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BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese: A Flavor-Packed Twist on a Classic


  • Author: Ashley
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Description

A fun and flavorful twist on the traditional grilled cheese sandwich, filled with tender BBQ chicken, melty cheese, and crispy golden bread. This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with smoky, savory goodness in every bite.


Ingredients

Scale

For the BBQ Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb): This is the base for the BBQ chicken filling.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the chicken.
  • Salt and pepper: To season the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory flavor to the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: For extra smoky flavor.
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce (sweet, tangy, spicy—whatever you like!).
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional): Adds a little tang and balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

For the Grilled Cheese Sandwich:

  • 8 slices of bread (preferably a hearty white bread, sourdough, or brioche): Choose a sturdy bread that will hold up to the filling and grilling.
  • 4 tablespoons butter: Softened, for spreading on the bread to create a crispy, golden crust.
  • 2 cups shredded cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella works well for a gooey melt, but you can also use provolone, gouda, or Monterey Jack for added flavor.

Optional Garnishes:

  • Pickles or pickle chips: Add a tangy crunch to complement the BBQ chicken.
  • Coleslaw: A side of coleslaw can add freshness and crunch that pairs beautifully with BBQ flavors.
  • Hot sauce: For a spicy kick, drizzle some hot sauce on the sandwich before serving.

Instructions

First Step: PREPARE THE BBQ CHICKEN

  1. Season and Cook the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding.
  2. Shred the Chicken: After the chicken has cooled slightly, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can also use a hand mixer or a food processor for faster shredding, if you prefer.
  3. Combine with BBQ Sauce: Place the shredded chicken in a bowl and mix it with your favorite BBQ sauce. Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar if you want a tangier flavor. Stir to combine until the chicken is fully coated in the BBQ sauce. Set aside.

Second Step: ASSEMBLE THE GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICHES

  1. Butter the Bread: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. The butter will help create the crispy, golden crust that is a hallmark of a good grilled cheese sandwich.
  2. Add Cheese: On the unbuttered side of four slices of bread, add a generous amount of shredded cheese—about ½ cup per slice. You can mix and match cheeses, but a combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates the best melt.
  3. Layer the BBQ Chicken: Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture onto the cheese-covered slices of bread, spreading it evenly. Make sure to add a generous amount to ensure the sandwich is flavorful and filling.
  4. Top with More Cheese: Place another slice of cheese (about ½ cup) on top of the BBQ chicken, then close the sandwich with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side facing out.

Third Step: COOK THE SANDWICHES

  1. Heat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, place the sandwiches in the pan. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook the sandwiches in batches if necessary.
  2. Grill the Sandwiches: Cook each sandwich for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted. You can press the sandwich down gently with a spatula to help it cook evenly and get that perfect golden crust.
  3. Check for Doneness: Once both sides are crispy and the cheese is fully melted, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute before slicing.

Fourth Step: SERVE AND ENJOY

  1. Slice the Sandwiches: Use a sharp knife to slice the sandwiches diagonally. The melted cheese and BBQ chicken will ooze out, so be careful not to burn yourself!
  2. Optional Garnishes: For added flavor, serve the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese with a side of pickles, coleslaw, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat.
  3. Serve Hot: Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 33g