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BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich | Cheesy, Smoky & Comforting

Few things in life are as satisfying as a perfectly made grilled cheese sandwich. But when you add BBQ chicken into the mix, the humble grilled cheese transforms into something bold, smoky, and downright irresistible. This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich combines juicy shredded chicken tossed in tangy barbecue sauce, layered between sourdough bread with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella. The bread is toasted golden and crisp with butter, while the cheese melts into gooey perfection, holding everything together. It’s comfort food elevated — perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a late-night craving. Best of all, it’s quick and easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, and you can customize it with extra toppings like caramelized onions, jalapeños, or pickles. If you love smoky flavors and melty cheese, this sandwich will quickly become your new go-to recipe.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup cooked chicken shredded or chopped
  • ¼ cup BBQ sauce your favorite brand or homemade
  • 2 slices sourdough bread
  • 2 tbsp butter softened
  • ½ cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Skillet or griddle pan
  • Spatula
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Butter knife

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the chicken filling
  1. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well coated.
  2. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper if needed.
Step 2: Assemble the sandwich
  1. Butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
  2. Place one slice, buttered side down, on a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella.
  4. Add BBQ chicken mixture evenly on top.
  5. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
  6. Place the second bread slice on top, buttered side up.
Step 3: Grill the sandwich
  1. Cook on medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
  2. If cheese isn’t fully melted, cover the skillet with a lid for 1–2 minutes to trap heat.
Step 4: Slice and serve
  1. Remove from skillet, let rest for 1 minute.
  2. Slice in half diagonally.
  3. Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce or a side of pickles.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Wrap leftovers in foil and store for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as bread becomes soggy.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side. Avoid microwaving, which makes bread chewy.
🥄 Variations
Spicy BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese: Add sliced jalapeños or use spicy BBQ sauce.
Caramelized Onion Twist: Add caramelized onions for a sweet-savory balance.
Bacon Lovers: Add crispy turkey bacon strips for extra crunch.
Tex-Mex Style: Sprinkle in some corn and black beans with the chicken filling.
Healthier Option: Use whole-grain bread and low-fat cheese.
Mini Sliders: Make smaller versions using slider buns for party appetizers.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! It’s a great shortcut and works perfectly.
What type of BBQ sauce works best?
Sweet and smoky sauces pair well, but use your favorite style.
Can I use another type of bread?
Yes, any sturdy bread works: ciabatta, Texas toast, or rye.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Replace chicken with BBQ jackfruit or sautéed mushrooms.
What’s the best cheese for this sandwich?
A mix of cheddar for sharpness and mozzarella for meltiness.
How do I stop the bread from burning before the cheese melts?
Cook over medium-low heat and cover with a lid if needed.
Can I air fry this sandwich?
Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway.
What sides go well with this sandwich?
French fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or a fresh green salad.
Can I add veggies inside?
Yes, bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes work great.
Is this sandwich freezer-friendly?
No, it’s best fresh since cheese and bread lose texture when frozen.
🏁 Conclusion
This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich takes a childhood classic and upgrades it into a smoky, savory, cheesy masterpiece. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that feels indulgent and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a hearty dinner, or a late-night snack, this sandwich is guaranteed to hit the spot. Gooey cheese, tangy BBQ chicken, and crispy sourdough—what’s not to love?
So grab your skillet, melt some cheese, and enjoy this ultimate comfort food favorite.