BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese: Prepare to experience a flavor explosion that will redefine your definition of comfort food! Imagine the smoky sweetness of barbecue chicken melding perfectly with the gooey, melted cheese, all nestled between slices of perfectly toasted bread. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a culinary adventure.

While the grilled cheese sandwich itself boasts a long and beloved history, tracing back to the simple pleasure of melted cheese on bread, the addition of barbecue chicken elevates it to a whole new level. Barbecue, with its roots in the Caribbean and its evolution across the American South, brings a rich, smoky heritage to this modern twist. It’s a fusion of classic comfort and bold, contemporary flavors.

People adore this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese because it’s the ultimate indulgence. The combination of savory barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and creamy cheese creates an irresistible symphony of textures and tastes. It’s quick, easy to make, and incredibly satisfying – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover barbecue chicken! So, get ready to grill up some cheesy, BBQ goodness. You won’t regret it!

Ingredients:

• For the BBQ Chicken:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand!)
• For the Grilled Cheese:
• 8 slices of your favorite bread (I love using sourdough or Texas toast)
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 8 slices cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese for grilling)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional, but adds a great bite!)
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Preparing the BBQ Chicken:

1. First, let’s get the chicken ready. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear.
2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This is our simple but flavorful spice rub.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Now, we have a few options for cooking the chicken. You can grill it, bake it, or pan-fry it. I’ll give you instructions for each:
   • Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
   • Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
   • Pan-Frying: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Once the chicken is cooked through, let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks. This helps keep it juicy.
6. In a medium bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until it’s evenly coated. Set aside.

Assembling the Grilled Cheese:

1. Now for the fun part! Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. This is crucial for that golden-brown, crispy exterior.
2. Place four slices of bread, butter-side down, in a large skillet or on a griddle over medium heat.
3. Top each slice of bread with two slices of cheddar cheese.
4. Next, add a generous amount of the BBQ chicken to each sandwich. Don’t be shy!
5. If you’re using red onion, sprinkle some thinly sliced red onion over the chicken.
6. Top the chicken and onion (if using) with another two slices of cheddar cheese on each sandwich. This helps hold everything together.
7. Place the remaining slices of bread on top, butter-side up.

Cooking the Grilled Cheese:

1. Cook the grilled cheese sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Keep an eye on them, as the bread can burn quickly.
2. If the bread is browning too quickly but the cheese isn’t fully melted, you can lower the heat slightly and cover the skillet with a lid. This will help trap the heat and melt the cheese more evenly.
3. Once the grilled cheese sandwiches are cooked to your liking, remove them from the skillet and place them on a cutting board.
4. Let them cool for a minute or two before slicing them in half. This prevents the cheese from oozing out everywhere.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few extra tips and ideas to customize your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a smoky gouda would be delicious.
• Bread Choices: While I love sourdough or Texas toast, you can use any bread you like. Brioche, rye, or even a pretzel roll would work well.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the BBQ chicken for a little extra heat.
• Add Some Veggies: Besides red onion, you could also add some sliced pickles, jalapeños, or even some cooked bacon for extra flavor and texture.
• Different BBQ Sauce: Don’t be afraid to try different BBQ sauces. A sweet and tangy sauce, a smoky sauce, or even a spicy sauce would all be great.
• Make it a Melt: For a true “melt,” use a panini press or a heavy skillet with a weight on top to flatten the sandwich while it cooks. This will create a perfectly pressed and melty grilled cheese.
• Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken. Just shred it and toss it with BBQ sauce.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the BBQ chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes assembling the grilled cheese sandwiches even quicker.

Serving Suggestions:

This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it a complete meal:

• Serve with a side of coleslaw or potato salad.
• Pair it with a bowl of tomato soup or chili.
• Add a side of sweet potato fries or onion rings.
• Serve with a simple green salad.

Storage Instructions:

Grilled cheese sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat them in a skillet or in the oven until warmed through. Keep in mind that the bread may become a little soggy.

I hope you enjoy this recipe! It’s a fun and delicious twist on a classic grilled cheese sandwich. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what variations you come up with!

Conclusion:

This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese isn’t just another sandwich; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The smoky sweetness of the barbecue sauce, the tender chicken, and the gooey, melted cheese all combine to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. I genuinely believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy even the biggest cravings.

But why is this particular grilled cheese so special? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The crisp, golden-brown bread gives way to the warm, melty cheese, which then leads to the savory, slightly tangy BBQ chicken. It’s a symphony of flavors that will have you coming back for more. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile!

Looking for serving suggestions? I love pairing this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese with a side of creamy coleslaw or a simple green salad. The coolness of the coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich, while the salad adds a touch of lightness. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a bowl of tomato soup – the classic combination is always a winner!

And speaking of versatility, there are so many ways to customize this recipe to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Sharp cheddar adds a bold, tangy flavor, while Monterey Jack offers a milder, creamier taste. You could even try adding a slice of crispy bacon for an extra layer of smoky goodness. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider incorporating some sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Another variation I highly recommend is using different types of bread. Sourdough bread adds a tangy, chewy texture, while brioche bread provides a rich, buttery flavor. For a healthier option, try using whole-wheat bread. The possibilities are endless!

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. I’ve made this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese countless times, and I’m always amazed at how easy it is to create such a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner, weekend lunch, or even a late-night snack.

I truly believe that everyone should have this recipe in their repertoire. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your grill (or stovetop!), and get ready to experience the ultimate grilled cheese sandwich.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe, and I can’t wait to hear about your experience. Once you’ve tried it, please come back and leave a comment below. Let me know what you thought, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating delicious and easy-to-follow recipes for you.

So go ahead, give this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese a try. You won’t regret it! Happy cooking!

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