As I took my first bite of the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich, a delightful fusion of smoky and savory flavors instantly transported me to a sunny backyard barbecue. This hearty lunch option doesn’t just satisfy that cheesy craving; it’s also super quick to whip up, making it ideal for those busy afternoons when you need a comforting meal without the fuss. With tender chicken smothered in tangy BBQ sauce and creamy cheese melted between crispy sourdough, this sandwich is as customizable as it is delicious. Whether you like it spicy with jalapeños or prefer to keep it classic, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Ready to elevate your grilled cheese game? Let’s dive into the details!

Why is this sandwich a must-try?

Quick Preparation: Whipping up this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a breeze, making it perfect for those hectic weekdays when time is tight.

Customizable Delight: Tailor this recipe to your taste by swapping in different cheeses or adding toppings like crispy bacon.

Hearty Flavor: The combination of shredded chicken glazed in rich BBQ sauce and gooey cheese creates a mouthwatering explosion of flavors in every bite.

Comforting Crunch: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of buttery toasted sourdough that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Crowd-Pleasing Classic: Whether it’s a casual lunch or a get-together, this sandwich is sure to impress friends and family alike, just like my favorite Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken or a warm bowl of Mac Cheese Ready.

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Ingredients

For the Sandwich
• Sourdough Bread – The thick slices provide the perfect structure for holding the filling without breaking.
• Cooked Chicken (shredded) – This is the star of the show, adding protein and substance; use rotisserie for convenience or leftovers to save time.
• BBQ Sauce – Essential for that signature smoky flavor; pick your favorite based on whether you prefer sweet, smoky, or spicy notes.
• Monterey Jack Cheese – Melts beautifully, lending a creamy texture; feel free to swap it for Pepper Jack if you like a bit of a kick.
• Cheddar Cheese – Its sharpness wonderfully contrasts the mellow Monterey Jack, bringing depth to the flavor profile.
• Red Onion – Adds a delightful crunch and sharpness; spring onion serves as a milder alternative if preferred.
• Pickled Jalapeños – For a spicy twist, adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance; they add a delightful zing!
• Butter – Crucial for grilling to achieve that golden, crispy texture everyone loves.

Feel free to customize your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese to match your taste and enjoyment!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, diced red onion, and pickled jalapeños until well combined. The BBQ Chicken mixture should be evenly coated, showcasing a lovely blend of colors. Set this flavorful mixture aside while you prepare the sandwich, allowing the ingredients to meld and deepen in flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Take two thick slices of sourdough bread and generously butter one side of each. In a large frying pan, place the buttered slices with the butter-side down, ensuring an even surface for grilling. The golden crust will enhance the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese experience and provide the satisfying crunch you crave.

Step 3: Layer the Cheese
On the unbuttered side of the bread, layer two slices of Monterey Jack cheese, creating a melty base for the sandwich. Next, spoon half of the prepared BBQ Chicken mixture over the cheese, spreading it evenly. Top this with two slices of Cheddar cheese, adding a sharp contrast that complements the overall flavor of the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese.

Step 4: Complete the Sandwich
Place another slice of buttered sourdough bread on top, ensuring the butter-side is facing up. This will create a deliciously crispy exterior while the sandwich grills. Gently press down to secure the filling, making it easier to flip later on and helping everything meld together during the grilling process.

Step 5: Grill the Sandwich
Turn on heat to medium and allow the sandwich to grill for about 4 minutes. Monitor for a golden-brown crust on the bottom, and once it achieves that perfect color, carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula. Grill for another 4 minutes on this side, ensuring the cheeses melt beautifully and the bread remains crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Slice
Once both sides of the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese are perfectly golden and the cheese has melted into a gooey delight, carefully transfer the sandwich to a cutting board. Allow it to rest for a minute before slicing it in half. This small step enhances the flavors and ensures a delightful presentation. Serve hot and enjoy the warm, comforting goodness!

Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Choose Your Bread Wisely: Use thick sourdough for better support; it prevents the sandwich from breaking under the weight of the filling.
Mix Before Cooling: Allow shredded chicken to cool slightly before adding BBQ sauce to enhance flavors and maintain a cohesive texture.
Heat Control: Start with medium heat; too high can burn the bread before the cheese melts properly in your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese.
Flip Carefully: If making large sandwiches, carefully flip them to avoid spillage of the filling during grilling.
Experiment with Cheeses: Don’t hesitate to mix and match cheeses for variety; combining different types like gouda or Pepper Jack gives a fun twist.

How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Fridge: Store any leftover BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispness.

Freezer: If you want to freeze, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it keeps well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a skillet covered with a lid on low heat until warmed through. This preserves the crunch and melty goodness of the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving out for more than 2 hours, as the filling can spoil. Always refrigerate leftovers promptly to maintain safety and quality.

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making your busy weeknights much easier! You can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture, which includes shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, red onion, and jalapeños, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its quality, make sure to refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the mixture between your buttered sourdough and cheese, grill as directed, and enjoy a deliciously melty sandwich that’s just as mouthwatering as when freshly made. This simple prep strategy allows you to savor homemade comfort food with minimal fuss!

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?

Create the perfect meal by pairing your delicious sandwich with delightful sides that bring out its bold flavors.

Tangy Coleslaw: The crunch and acidity of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich, enhancing every bite.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness balances the smoky flavors of BBQ Chicken, plus the crispy texture adds delightful variety.
Creamy Tomato Soup: A classic accompaniment, it complements the gooey cheese and smoky BBQ with a tang that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Pickle Chips: These tangy bites offer a zesty crunch, perfectly cutting through the richness while elevating the overall flavor experience.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, its natural sweetness and juicy texture pair wonderfully with the hearty sandwich—perfect for summer cookouts.
Ice-cold Lemonade: This refreshing drink not only quenches your thirst but also brings a bright, citrusy note that complements the BBQ flavors, keeping your meal vibrant.

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese your own!

Cheese Swap: Try using a mix of gouda and mozzarella for a creamier texture that complements the BBQ flavor beautifully.
Bacon Crumble: Add crispy bacon for an irresistible crunch and a pop of savory flavor that kicks it up a notch.
Different Breads: Switch from sourdough to ciabatta or even Texas toast for a delightful twist and unique texture.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and add a nutritious crunch.
Tangy Addition: A hint of ranch dressing can work wonders for those who crave a zesty explosion in every bite!
Extra Heat: Kick up the spice level by adding more pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for BBQ Chicken with a fiery kick.
Sweet Touch: Drizzle honey over the sandwich before serving for a sweet contrast that balances the smoky BBQ taste.
Make It Mini: Create sliders using smaller buns for fun and shareable bites, perfect for gatherings or party appetizers.

Feel free to explore these variations, and if you’re hungry for more delicious ideas, check out my recipe for Cheesy Garlic Chicken or dive into the comforting flavors of Cottage Cheese Chickpea!

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
Absolutely! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience or any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand. If starting from scratch, simply cook and shred your chicken breast before mixing it with the BBQ sauce.

How should I store leftover BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
For storing leftovers, place your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on medium heat in a skillet to regain that delicious crispiness.

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwiches?
Yes! To freeze, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. You can enjoy your sandwiches for up to 2 months. When ready to indulge, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet to bring back that delightful crunch.

What should I do if my cheese doesn’t melt properly?
If your cheese isn’t melting, check your heat level. It’s important to cook on medium heat; too high can burn the bread without melting the cheese. You can also try covering the pan with a lid during cooking to trap heat and promote melting.

Are there any common allergens in this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
Be mindful of potential allergens! This recipe contains dairy (cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese), gluten (sourdough bread), and can be made spicy due to jalapeños, which may not sit well with everyone. Always consider your guests’ dietary restrictions when preparing this delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese.

Can I customize this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread. You can also swap the cheeses for dairy-free alternatives to accommodate lactose intolerance. Adjust the BBQ sauce for sugar content if you’re watching your sugar intake—many brands offer low-sugar options.