If you are craving a sandwich that brings smoky, tangy, cheesy, and crunchy all at once, then this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender shredded chicken slathered in a luscious BBQ sauce, melted cheese oozing out between perfectly toasted bread slices, and optional fresh accents like red onion and cilantro that elevate every bite. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing lunch that satisfies big flavor cravings with simple, everyday ingredients. I can’t wait to share exactly how to make this delicious comfort food classic your new favorite sandwich!

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be fooled by its simplicity; each ingredient in this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe plays a crucial role that brings bold flavors and great texture. From the tender BBQ-coated chicken to the crispy buttery bread, every element works together to create a harmonious melt.

Cooked chicken (1 cup, shredded): The star protein that soaks up the BBQ sauce beautifully for juicy bites.
BBQ sauce (1/2 cup): Adds tangy, sweet, and smoky depth that complements the cheese perfectly.
Bread (8 slices): Choose a sturdy loaf like sourdough or white sandwich bread for a crispy crust and soft center.
Butter (4 tablespoons, softened): Essential for golden, crunchy grilled cheese exteriors that taste rich and buttery.
Shredded cheese (2 cups): A blend of cheddar and mozzarella works beautifully for melty stretchiness and sharp flavor.
Red onion (1/2, thinly sliced, optional): Adds a slight tang and crunch that balances the richness.
Fresh cilantro (chopped, optional): A bright, herbal finish that lifts the smoky BBQ flavors.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Mix the BBQ Chicken

In a bowl, toss your shredded cooked chicken with the BBQ sauce until every piece is nicely coated in that sticky, smoky goodness. This mixture forms the flavorful heart of your sandwich, so make sure the sauce is evenly spread for maximum taste in every bite.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

Spread softened butter on one side of every slice of bread. This step is key because the buttered side will become the golden, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the melted cheese and tender chicken inside. Don’t rush this—make sure the butter covers the surface evenly.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich Layers

Heat a skillet or griddle to medium heat. Start by placing a slice of bread, butter side down, on the pan. Layer a quarter cup of shredded cheese, then a quarter cup of your BBQ chicken mixture. If you’re using them, add thin slices of red onion and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top, then finish with another quarter cup of cheese. Top your creation with the second slice of bread, butter side up.

Step 4: Grill to Golden Perfection

Cook the sandwich for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom is a beautiful golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes until perfectly toasted and gooey. Repeat this process with the remaining ingredients to make all four sandwiches.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

To make each bite pop, sprinkle some extra fresh cilantro or chopped green onions on the side. A light drizzle of extra BBQ sauce also adds a fun finishing touch for dipping or drizzling, bringing a little extra saucy magic to the plate.

Side Dishes

Pair your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe with classic sides like crispy kettle chips, a fresh green salad, or even creamy coleslaw for that perfect balance of crisp textures and complementary flavors. A bowl of tomato soup is always a cozy, comforting match for grilled cheese sandwiches too.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist when serving, cut your sandwiches into fun shapes with cookie cutters or small triangles to make sharing easier and more inviting. You could even make sliders for a party spread, layering the ingredients thinner for bite-sized BBQ grilled cheese goodness that everyone can enjoy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover sandwiches wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps to maintain moisture while preventing the bread from drying out too quickly.

Freezing

If you want to save your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe for later, it freezes wonderfully. Wrap the sandwiches individually in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month for a quick, delicious meal anytime you need it.

Reheating

To reheat, pop your sandwich in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to get the bread crispy and cheese melted again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the bread soggy instead of crunchy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe?

Absolutely! Cheddar and mozzarella are classic, but feel free to experiment with pepper jack for a bit of spice or gouda for a smoky touch. The key is choosing cheeses that melt well and complement the BBQ flavors.

What type of bread works best for this recipe?

Sturdy breads like sourdough, Texas toast, or thick white sandwich bread hold up well to the fillings and grill nicely to a golden crust that offers crunch without falling apart.

Is this sandwich spicy?

The recipe as is has mild to moderate flavor depending on your BBQ sauce choice. To add more heat, choose a spicier BBQ sauce or add jalapeño slices or hot sauce before grilling.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the shredded chicken with jackfruit or your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetarian BBQ sauce. The cheesy, smoky goodness will still shine through deliciously.

How do I keep the sandwich from becoming soggy?

Make sure to spread the BBQ sauce well but not overly wet the bread. Buttering the bread’s outer sides helps create a barrier during grilling, keeping the bread crispy while the fillings stay juicy.

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe checks every box for comfort, flavor, and ease. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug, yet packs enough punch to keep you craving more. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, I can’t recommend it enough — you simply must give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a beloved classic in your kitchen.

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

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3.9 from 50 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A delicious and comforting BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwich that combines tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy BBQ sauce with melted cheese and optional fresh toppings. Perfectly toasted on a skillet to golden, crispy perfection, this sandwich is quick to prepare and makes a satisfying meal for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
8 slices of bread
4 tbsp butter, softened
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)

Optional Ingredients

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
Fresh cilantro, chopped

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Instructions

Prepare Chicken Mixture: In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce, ensuring flavor is well distributed.
Butter the Bread: Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread for a crispy, golden exterior when grilled.
Heat Skillet: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat to prepare for toasting the sandwiches.
Assemble the Sandwich: Place one slice of bread on the skillet, butter side down. Layer with 1/4 cup of shredded cheese, followed by 1/4 cup of the BBQ chicken mixture. If using, add thin slices of red onion and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. Finish with another 1/4 cup of shredded cheese.
Top and Cook: Place a second slice of bread on top with the buttered side facing up. Cook until the bottom is golden brown and cheese starts to melt, about 3-4 minutes.
Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula and cook the other side until it turns golden brown and the cheese is fully melted, another 3-4 minutes.
Repeat and Serve: Repeat the assembly and cooking steps with the remaining ingredients to make additional sandwiches. Serve the grilled cheese sandwiches hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

You can use any type of bread such as white, whole wheat, or sourdough for variations in flavor and texture.
For a spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
Substitute the BBQ sauce with your favorite brand or homemade version for personalized taste.
To make it vegetarian, replace chicken with BBQ jackfruit or mushrooms.
Optional red onion and cilantro add freshness but can be omitted if desired.
Using a non-stick skillet or griddle helps prevent sticking and burning.
Serve with pickles or a side salad to complement the sandwich.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Sandwiches
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American