BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and gooey, cheesy interior, these sandwiches blend the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken with creamy Havarti cheese. They are easy to make and can be served for lunch or dinner, making them a versatile choice for family meals or gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Combining BBQ chicken and melty cheese creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of total preparation, these sandwiches are simple enough for busy weeknights.
• Crowd-Pleaser: They appeal to both kids and adults, making them a hit at any gathering.
• Customizable: Feel free to add veggies or switch up the cheese to suit your tastes.
• Comfort Food Classic: This recipe takes the traditional grilled cheese to the next level, giving it a fun twist.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or frying pan
• Spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or frying pan: This tool ensures even cooking and perfectly crispy bread.
• Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps flip the sandwiches without spilling their delicious filling.
• Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for slicing onions and bread with ease.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients.

Ingredients

For the 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 Sandwich Assembly

• 12 slices Havarti cheese
• ¼ cup butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for butter mixture)
• 2 teaspoons parsley, minced
• 12 slices sourdough bread or sturdy white bread

How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté the thinly sliced red onion until soft. Then, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in shredded chicken, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce. Mix well until heated through.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread butter mixed with minced garlic and parsley on one side of each slice of bread. Place half of the slices butter-side down on a clean surface. Top each with sliced Havarti cheese followed by the BBQ chicken mixture. Cap with remaining slices of bread (butter-side up).

Step 3: Cook the Sandwiches

In a hot skillet, place the assembled sandwiches. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Ensure that the cheese melts completely.

Step 4: Serve

Once cooked, remove from heat and slice in half if desired. Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

Enjoy your delightful BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with vinaigrette.
• Coleslaw: Crunchy cabbage salad adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the sandwich.

Add a Side of Fries

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries pair perfectly with the smoky BBQ flavors.
• Classic French Fries: Always a favorite, serve them hot with your choice of dipping sauce.

Serve with Pickles

• Dill Pickles: The tanginess of dill pickles contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese, enhancing each bite.
• Bread and Butter Pickles: These sweet and tangy pickles offer a different flavor profile that complements the sandwich well.

Include Dipping Sauces

• Extra BBQ Sauce: For those who love a little more flavor, serve extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch dressing adds an additional layer of taste that some enjoy.

How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Making the perfect BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich is all about technique and ingredients. Keep these tips in mind for a delicious result.

• Use Quality Bread: A sturdy bread like sourdough or French ensures your sandwich holds up against the fillings.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Cooking on medium heat allows the cheese to melt perfectly without burning the bread.
• Add Extra Flavor: Consider incorporating herbs or spices into your chicken mixture for added depth.
• Butter Generously: A good amount of butter on the outside of the bread gives it that golden-brown crust everyone loves.
• Check Your Cheese: Use fresh Havarti cheese for optimal meltiness; aged varieties may not melt as well.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

To round out your meal, consider serving your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich with these delicious side dishes.

1. Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy corn complements the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken.
2. Baked Beans: A hearty side dish that pairs well with grilled meats and sandwiches alike.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides a nice contrast to the warm sandwich.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Rich and cheesy pasta is always a crowd-pleaser alongside grilled cheese.
5. Chips and Salsa: For a crunchy option, serve tortilla chips with fresh salsa for some zest.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate after rich bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your meal. Here are some to watch out for:

• Using stale bread: Fresh bread is key for a delicious sandwich. Always choose sturdy, fresh bread for the best texture and flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Ensure the chicken is heated through but not overcooked. Keep an eye on it to maintain moisture and tenderness.
• Skimping on cheese: A good grilled cheese sandwich needs plenty of cheese. Don’t hold back; use enough Havarti for that creamy melt.
• Neglecting seasoning: Season your filling well. The right spices and sauces will elevate your BBQ chicken flavor, making it irresistible.
• Not preheating the pan: Preheat your skillet before adding the sandwiches. This ensures even cooking and a golden crust.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, but note this may make the bread less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until heated and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich:

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While Havarti is delicious, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella.

How can I customize my BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich?

You can add toppings like jalapeños, bacon, or avocado to enhance flavors and textures.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These sandwiches store well and make great grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Choose your favorite BBQ sauce, whether it’s sweet, smoky, or spicy—just ensure it complements the chicken well.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches offer a delightful mix of flavors that can please anyone at your dinner table. Customize them with your favorite ingredients for an even more personal touch. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!