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BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese – Gooey, Smoky & Comforting

Few things scream comfort food like a gooey grilled cheese. This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes the classic to the next level by layering tender shredded chicken tossed in smoky barbecue sauce with plenty of melty cheese between buttery, golden bread. It’s quick, filling, and packed with flavor — making it the ultimate weeknight meal, game-day sandwich, or anytime craving-buster.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍯 Condiments:
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce
🥖 Breads & Pastries:
  • 4 slices bread sourdough or white bread work best
🧈 Dairy Products:
  • 2 tbsp butter softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend
🍗 Other:
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken grilled or rotisserie

Equipment

  • Skillet or griddle
  • Spatula
  • Mixing bowl
  • Butter knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Step 1 – Prep the Chicken
  1. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until coated.
Step 2 – Assemble the Sandwiches
  1. Butter one side of each bread slice.
  2. Place 2 slices, butter-side down, on a cutting board.
  3. Layer with cheese, BBQ chicken mixture, then more cheese.
  4. Top with the remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
Step 3 – Grill
  1. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
  2. Place sandwiches in skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with spatula, until golden brown and cheese melts.
Step 4 – Serve
  1. Slice in half and serve hot with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Wrap cooled sandwiches in foil, store up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes until crispy again (avoid microwaving to keep bread from getting soggy).
Freezer: Not recommended — bread gets mushy.
🥄 Variations
Cheesy Overload: Use a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Veggie Boost: Add caramelized onions or sautéed bell peppers.
Bacon Lovers: Add crispy turkey bacon strips inside before grilling.
❓ 10 FAQs
What’s the best bread to use?
Thick-cut sourdough or Texas toast works best for sturdiness.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie or grilled chicken works perfectly.
What cheese melts best?
Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend.
Can I make it in a panini press?
Absolutely, it will cook evenly and faster.
What BBQ sauce is best?
Use your favorite — smoky, sweet, or spicy.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, shredded cooked turkey works too.
How do I prevent soggy bread?
Cook over medium heat so bread crisps while cheese melts.
Can I prep these ahead?
Assemble ahead, refrigerate, then grill when ready to serve.
Can I make it healthier?
Use whole grain bread, light cheese, and less butter.
What sides go well with it?
Tomato soup, coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad.
🏁 Conclusion
This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a smoky, cheesy twist on the classic grilled cheese — hearty enough for dinner, fun enough for game night, and easy enough for busy weeknights. With gooey cheese, tangy BBQ sauce, and golden buttery bread, it’s comfort food at its finest.