BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are a delightful fusion of flavors that make for an irresistible meal. Perfect for casual dinners or gatherings, these sandwiches combine the smoky richness of BBQ chicken with the gooey goodness of melted Havarti cheese, all sandwiched between crispy, garlicky bread. The ease of preparation and standout taste makes this dish a must-try for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of BBQ chicken and creamy Havarti cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love.
• Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover roasted chicken or customize with your favorite cheeses and bread types for endless variations.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers, these sandwiches are sure to impress your guests.
• Comfort Food Redefined: Enjoy the nostalgic comfort of grilled cheese with a flavorful twist that elevates the classic sandwich.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Medium bowl
• Microwave
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents the sandwiches from sticking, making flipping easy.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing ingredients like garlic butter without making a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing onions and bread quick and safe.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for prepping your ingredients.

Ingredients

For the BBQ Chicken Filling

• 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 Garlic Butter Bread

• 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 BBQ Chicken Filling

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add thinly sliced onions and cook until soft, about 2 minutes.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
• Mix in shredded chicken, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce. Stir to combine and cook until heated through, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture

• In a medium bowl, combine butter, minced garlic, and parsley.
• Microwave until melted; stir well to combine.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

• Lay out 12 slices of sourdough or sturdy white bread on your work surface.
• Spread the melted garlic butter mixture over each slice generously.

Step 4: Add Fillings to the Bread

• Turn six slices over so that the buttered side is facing down. Place one slice of Havarti cheese followed by an even amount of the BBQ chicken mixture on each slice.
• Top with another slice of Havarti cheese before placing the remaining six slices of bread on top (buttered side facing up).

Step 5: Cook the Sandwiches

• Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches in skillet carefully.
• Cook until bottoms are browned, about 3–5 minutes. Flip sandwiches carefully using a spatula.
• Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking until the other side is browned and cheese is fully melted, about another 3–5 minutes.

Now you have delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches ready to enjoy! Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are deliciously satisfying and can be served in several ways to enhance your meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate this dish.

With a Side of Crunchy Pickles

• Pickles add a tangy crunch that balances the richness of the grilled cheese. Choose dill or bread-and-butter pickles for a refreshing contrast.

Paired with Sweet Potato Fries

• Sweet potato fries offer a sweet and savory flavor combo. Bake them until crispy for a healthier side option that complements the BBQ chicken.

Accompanied by a Fresh Garden Salad

• A light garden salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a fresh burst of flavor. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette for added zest.

Served with Creamy Tomato Soup

• Enjoy your sandwich dunked in warm, creamy tomato soup. This classic pairing makes for a comforting meal, especially on chilly days.

On a Platter with Chips

• Serve alongside crunchy potato chips for an easy, casual meal. The chips add texture and are perfect for dipping into any remaining BBQ sauce.

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 sandwiches turn out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Bread: Sourdough or sturdy white bread holds up well to grilling and adds great flavor.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Cook sandwiches over medium heat to achieve perfectly melted cheese without burning the bread.
• Customize Your Sauce: Experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your preferred flavor profile—smoky, sweet, or tangy.
• Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate spinach or bell peppers into the filling for added nutrition and flavor.
• Perfect Your Butter Mix: Ensure your garlic butter is evenly spread for consistent flavor throughout each bite.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Pairing sides with your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich can enhance the dining experience. Here are some great side dish options:

1. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing texture and tanginess that complements the richness of the sandwich.

2. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweet flavors that pair beautifully with BBQ chicken.

3. Fruit Salad
   A colorful fruit salad offers sweetness and acidity, balancing the savory flavors of the sandwich.

4. Potato Wedges
   Seasoned potato wedges provide a hearty side that’s easy to prepare and enjoyable to munch on.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Stuffed bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice create an interesting presentation and add nutritional value.

6. Roasted Vegetables
   Roasted seasonal vegetables make for a healthy side that brings color and nutrients to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using stale bread: Fresh bread is crucial for a perfect texture. Always opt for bread that is soft and fresh to create a delicious crust.
• Overloading with filling: While it can be tempting to add more BBQ chicken and cheese, this can lead to messy sandwiches. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best results.
• Not preheating the skillet: A properly heated skillet ensures that your sandwich cooks evenly and achieves that golden-brown crust. Always preheat your skillet before adding the sandwiches.
• Skipping the garlic butter: The garlic butter adds flavor and helps create a crispy crust. Don’t skip this step; it makes a significant difference!
• Cooking at too high of heat: Cooking on high heat can burn the bread while leaving the cheese unmelted. Maintain medium heat for optimal cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking for warmth.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warm, checking often to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, here are some answers:

What kind of cheese works best in a BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich?

Havarti cheese is great due to its creamy texture and melting properties. You might also try Monterey Jack or cheddar.

Can I make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and assemble sandwiches right before cooking them.

How do I customize my BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich?

Feel free to add veggies like spinach or peppers, or switch up the cheese based on your preference!

What can I serve with BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches?

These sandwiches pair well with simple sides like salad, chips, or even a bowl of soup for dipping.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are not only delicious but also very versatile. You can customize them with different cheeses and toppings based on your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!