Craving a simple yet delicious meal? Look no further than BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese! Picture gooey cheese, tender chicken, and zesty BBQ sauce all melted between crispy bread. This dish is not just tasty; it’s easy to make and perfect for any time of day. Join me as we explore the key ingredients, steps, and tips to create a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
Key Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
To make this tasty BBQ chicken grilled cheese, you need a few key items. Here’s what to gather:
– 2 slices of sourdough bread
– 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– Optional: fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
These ingredients create a sandwich full of flavor. The chicken gives protein, while the BBQ sauce adds sweetness.
Recommended Types of Cheese
Choosing cheese is fun! I recommend using both cheddar and mozzarella. Cheddar melts well and brings a sharp taste. Mozzarella adds creaminess and stretches nicely. You can also try gouda or pepper jack for a twist. Each cheese adds a unique flavor to your meal.
Ideal Bread Choices
For the best grilled cheese, sourdough bread is my top pick. It has a crispy crust and chewy inside. You can also use rustic white or whole grain bread if you prefer. Make sure the bread can hold all the filling and get nice and golden when grilled. The right bread makes all the difference in texture and taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Prepare the Chicken and BBQ Sauce Mix
First, take the cooked, shredded chicken. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. In a medium bowl, mix the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce. Stir well until the chicken is fully coated. This step is key for flavor. The BBQ sauce adds a sweet and tangy twist.
Tips for Perfectly Grilling the Sandwich
Grilling the sandwich takes some care. Start by buttering one side of each slice of sourdough. This helps it get a nice, crisp texture. Heat your skillet over medium heat. Place one slice in the skillet, butter-side down. Add the BBQ chicken mix, then the cheeses and onions. Top with the other slice, butter-side up. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip carefully with a spatula and grill the other side. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Final Assembly and Serving Suggestions
Once both sides are golden and cheese melts, take the sandwich out. Let it sit for a minute to cool. This makes it easier to slice. Cut it in half and serve. You can garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your BBQ chicken grilled cheese with a side of chips or salad.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Golden Crust
To make a great grilled cheese, you need a golden crust. First, use unsalted butter. Spread it on the outside of the bread. This helps the bread crisp up nicely. Heat your skillet over medium heat. Too hot can burn your bread too fast. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes. Watch it closely to get that perfect color.
Ways to Customize Your Grilled Cheese
You can make your BBQ chicken grilled cheese unique. Try adding different toppings. Sliced jalapeños add heat. Avocado gives a creamy texture. You can swap out the cheeses too. Pepper jack gives a spicy kick. Gouda adds a smoky flavor. Mix and match to find your favorite combo.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using too much BBQ sauce. It can make the bread soggy. Also, don’t rush the cooking process. Low and slow helps melt the cheese well. Flip the sandwich gently to keep the filling inside. Lastly, let it cool for a minute before cutting. This helps the cheese set. Follow these tips to enjoy a perfect BBQ chicken grilled cheese.
Variations
Spicy BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
To add some heat, try a spicy BBQ chicken grilled cheese. Use a spicy BBQ sauce or add jalapeños to the mix. This will give your sandwich a nice kick. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes inside. The heat pairs well with the creamy cheese and savory chicken.
Vegetarian Option: BBQ Veggie Grilled Cheese
If you want a meat-free option, make a BBQ veggie grilled cheese. Instead of chicken, use grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Toss these veggies in BBQ sauce for flavor. Layer them with your favorite cheese on sourdough bread. This is a great way to enjoy BBQ flavors without meat.
Different Cheese Combinations
Cheese plays a big role in the flavor. While cheddar and mozzarella are great, feel free to mix it up. Try pepper jack for a spicy twist or gouda for a smoky flavor. You can also use cream cheese for extra creaminess. The right cheese can take your BBQ chicken grilled cheese to the next level.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese fresh, place it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down first. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This way, your sandwich stays tasty and safe to eat.
Reheating Tips
When you want to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them in a skillet. Use medium heat and cover the pan. This helps the cheese melt without burning the bread. Heat for about 5 minutes on each side. You can also use a microwave, but the bread may get soggy.
Freezing BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
You can freeze these sandwiches for later. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for the best results.
FAQs
What pairs well with BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese goes well with several sides. You can serve it with:
– Crispy potato chips
– A fresh green salad
– Sweet potato fries
– Coleslaw
These sides add crunch and balance to your meal. A cold drink, like iced tea or lemonade, also works well.
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred the chicken and mix it with BBQ sauce. This makes meal prep easy, especially on busy days.
How do I make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese in a panini press?
To make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese in a panini press, follow these steps:
1.
2. Butter one side of each slice of sourdough.
3. Layer the chicken and cheese on the unbuttered side.
4. Close the sandwich and place it in the panini press.
5. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese melts.
Using a panini press gives you that perfect crust and melted cheese.
In this post, we explored the tasty world of BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese. We covered key ingredients, like the best cheeses and breads, and walked through step-by-step instructions for preparation and grilling. I shared tips for a golden crust and how to customize your sandwich. Don’t forget the fun variations, like adding spice or veggies! Store leftovers wisely, and refer to the FAQs for quick answers. Enjoy making this delicious meal, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
