There’s nothing quite like the comforting, melty goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich—unless, of course, you elevate it to gourmet status with BBQ chicken! Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, crispy sandwich oozing with rich Havarti cheese, smoky flavors of roasted chicken, and a tangy BBQ sauce, all enveloped by the satisfying crunch of golden-brown sourdough.
This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese isn’t just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for a lazy weekend or a quick weeknight dinner. After a hectic day, it’s a delight to whip up something so simple yet incredibly satisfying. Plus, it serves as a fantastic way to repurpose any leftover chicken you may have, ensuring that no bite goes to waste.
Gather your ingredients and get ready to experience a delightful twist on a classic favorite—this sandwich will leave you craving more!
Why is BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese irresistible?
Comforting, this sandwich brings together all your favorite flavors in one warm, gooey bite. Versatile, it’s perfect for using up leftover chicken or making a quick weeknight dinner. Quick prep, taking just 25 minutes, means more time enjoying this delicious creation. Crowd-pleaser, it’s sure to delight everyone at the table—adults and kids alike! Plus, the crispy sourdough and melted Havarti create a dreamy texture blend. You can also explore other delicious takes in our Ultimate Grilled Cheese Guide.
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Ingredients
For the Filling
- Olive oil – adds richness and helps to sauté the onions beautifully.
- Red onion – brings a subtle sweetness that balances the smokiness of the chicken.
- Garlic – adds a fragrant punch; use fresh for the best flavor.
- Shredded roasted chicken – the star of your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese; leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly!
- Paprika – offers a smoky undertone while adding a hint of warmth.
- Worcestershire sauce – contributes a savory depth of flavor that complements the BBQ sauce.
- BBQ sauce – use your favorite brand for that tangy goodness that ties the sandwich together.
For the Sandwich
- Havarti cheese – melts beautifully, creating gooey layers throughout the sandwich.
- Butter – for an irresistible golden crust when grilling the sandwiches.
- Garlic – yes, a little more for the butter mix; it enhances the aroma and flavor.
- Parsley – adds a fresh touch and a hint of color to your sandwiches.
- Sourdough bread – sturdy enough to hold all the delicious fillings without getting soggy.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
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Sauté the Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced red onion and cook until soft, about 2 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, around 30 seconds.
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Combine the Filling: Toss in the shredded roasted chicken along with smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce. Mix well and cook until heated through, approximately 2-3 minutes.
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Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a medium bowl, combine butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Microwave this mixture until melted, then stir to blend.
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Assemble the Sandwiches: Place 12 slices of sourdough bread on your work surface. Spread the melted garlic butter mixture over each slice. Then, flip half of the slices over, topping 6 of them with 6 cheese slices and the BBQ chicken mixture, distributing evenly. Finish by adding the remaining cheese slices on top and closing with the other buttered slices of bread (buttered sides facing out).
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Grill the Sandwiches: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches until the bottoms are golden brown, about 3 to 5 minutes. Flip the sandwiches, reduce the heat to medium-low, and continue to cook until the cheese melts and the bottoms are browned, another 3 to 5 minutes.
Optional: Serve with extra BBQ sauce for dipping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Fridge: Store your leftover BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months—perfect for a quick meal later on!
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen sandwiches directly in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until heated through, about 5-7 minutes on each side, ensuring the cheese melts beautifully.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage and keep your meal safe.
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
Transform your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese experience into a delightful feast with these irresistible sides and beverages.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The slight sweetness and crunch of these fries wonderfully contrast the savory sandwich, creating a satisfying bite. Dipping them in a tangy sauce adds an extra kick!
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Coleslaw: This refreshing side brings a crisp and cool balance to the richness of your grilled cheese, enhancing every mouthful with its creamy yet crunchy texture. A classic combo that never disappoints!
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Tomato Soup: Warm, velvety tomato soup is the ultimate companion, infusing your meal with vibrant acidity and refreshing flavor. Dunk your sandwich for a comforting, nostalgic experience!
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Pickles: The vibrant tang of dill pickles cuts through the richness of the cheese and BBQ chicken, adding a welcome crunch. They also bring a pop of color to your plate!
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Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn complements the flavors in your grilled cheese. It’s a textural delight and a family-friendly addition that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of your sandwich.
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Iced Tea: Refreshing and lightly sweetened iced tea is the perfect drink to wash down your meal. The slight bitterness balances the savory richness, making every bite more enjoyable.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies. Their comforting sweetness and chewy texture will leave everyone craving seconds!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of colorful fruits adds a light, refreshing touch to your meal. It balances perfectly with the savory grilled cheese and brings a burst of natural sweetness.
Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions make a world of difference in flavor. Avoid pre-packaged versions for that homemade goodness.
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Perfect Cheese Layering: For optimal meltiness, always use enough Havarti cheese. Double layer it if you prefer extra ooze with your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!
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Avoid Soggy Bread: Always spread garlic butter on the outside of the bread. This helps create a crisp crust, keeping the inside perfectly sweet and savory.
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Monitor Heat: Keep the skillet at medium heat initially. Lowering the heat too quickly can result in an undercooked center with burnt bread.
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Customize with Toppings: Feel free to add jalapeños for a kick or crispy bacon for extra crunch. Making it your own enhances the experience!
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Reheat Wisely: If you have leftovers, reheat in a skillet for a few minutes to retain that crispy texture; microwaving can make it soggy.
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwiches are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep! You can prepare the chicken filling up to 3 days in advance; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To retain the flavors and prevent sogginess, keep the garlic butter mix separate until you’re ready to assemble. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the garlic butter on the bread, layer in the cheese and chicken mixture, and grill the sandwiches as usual. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, homemade meal in no time, just as delightful as if you made it fresh!
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Variations
Feel free to explore your creativity and make this dish shine with your personal touch!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños to the BBQ chicken mixture for a zesty heat that takes this sandwich to the next level. Feel the vibrant flavors meld together as you indulge in each bite.
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Cheddar Twist: Swap Havarti for sharp cheddar cheese for a more robust flavor, enriching your grilled cheese experience with a delightful tang. The combination of ooey-gooey and zesty flavors will surprise your taste buds!
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Herb-Infused: Mix fresh basil or cilantro into the BBQ chicken filling for a herbaceous twist that adds a fresh pop to the dish. It’ll transform your sandwich into a gourmet treat with uplifting notes.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in sautéed bell peppers or spinach with the chicken for added nutrients and color while embracing that comforting style. These veggies not only enhance flavor but also contribute to a wholesome bite.
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Smoky BBQ Sauce: Experiment with a chipotle BBQ sauce to infuse deep smokiness and an exciting layer of flavor. Your taste buds will embark on a wild journey with each mouthful of this savory delight.
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Crunchy Texture: Layer in some crispy bacon or fried onion strings for an unexpected crunch that brings additional texture to your sandwich. The satisfying crunch will leave you reaching for another bite!
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute sourdough with gluten-free bread to make this sandwich accessible to everyone, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious classic. Experience the joy of inclusivity and share with friends and family.
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Sweet and Savory: Drizzle a touch of honey or add sliced apples for a sweet contrast that beautifully complements the richness of the cheese and chicken. It’s a surprising twist that will have your guests asking for seconds!
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for my BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
Absolutely! Shredded roasted chicken is perfect for this recipe. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, which not only saves time but also adds a wonderful depth of flavor. If you don’t have shredded chicken on hand, feel free to bake or grill chicken specifically for this dish ahead of time.
How should I store leftover BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwiches?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain both the freshness and flavor of your delicious sandwiches. Just be sure to keep them well wrapped to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwiches?
Absolutely! Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can keep them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply unwrap them, and reheat them on medium heat in a skillet until heated through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes on each side.
How can I prevent my sandwiches from becoming soggy?
To keep your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese nice and crispy, always spread the garlic butter on the outside of the bread. This creates a lovely, crunchy crust while preventing moisture from the filling from making the bread soggy. Additionally, cooking on medium heat ensures the bread crisps up without burning while giving the filling time to warm through.
Are there any dietary concerns I should consider with this recipe?
Yes! If you’re serving this delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese to someone with allergies, be mindful of potential allergens like gluten in the sourdough bread, dairy in the cheese and butter, and any specific ingredients in your BBQ sauce. You can also customize this recipe by using gluten-free bread or dairy alternatives for both butter and cheese, making it suitable for various dietary needs—just ensure to check labels when choosing substitutes!
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese: A Flavor-Packed Comfort Classic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced red onion and cook until soft, about 2 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, around 30 seconds.
- Toss in the shredded roasted chicken along with smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce. Mix well and cook until heated through, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, combine butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Microwave until melted, then stir to blend.
- Place 12 slices of sourdough bread on your work surface. Spread the melted garlic butter mixture over each slice. Flip half of the slices over, topping 6 with cheese slices and the BBQ chicken mixture. Finish with remaining cheese and close with the other buttered slices of bread.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook sandwiches until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Flip and continue cooking until cheese melts and bottoms are browned, another 3-5 minutes.