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 mingling with the gooey, melty goodness of a classic grilled cheese. It’s a culinary collision that works in perfect harmony, creating a sandwich that’s both familiar and excitingly new.

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 slow-cooked traditions of the American South, brings a depth of flavor that complements the creamy cheese beautifully. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a fusion of American culinary heritage.

People adore this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese because it’s the ultimate indulgence. The combination of savory, sweet, and cheesy is simply irresistible. The tender, juicy chicken, coated in tangy barbecue sauce, provides a delightful contrast to the crisp, buttery bread and the smooth, melted cheese. Plus, it’s incredibly easy and quick to make, making it the perfect weeknight meal or a satisfying weekend lunch. Who can resist the allure of a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?

Ingredients:

• For the BBQ Chicken:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 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 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• Optional: 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• Optional: 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Preparing the BBQ Chicken:

1. First, let’s get that chicken ready! Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This is our spice rub!
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot skillet.
5. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it more tender.
7. Shred the chicken using two forks. It should shred easily if it’s cooked properly.
8. In a 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 – building our grilled cheese! Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. This is the side that will go against the skillet.
2. Place four slices of bread, butter-side down, in a clean skillet over medium heat.
3. Top each slice of bread with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. Don’t be shy!
4. Add a layer of the BBQ chicken on top of the cheese. Spread it evenly.
5. If you’re using red onion, sprinkle some thinly sliced red onion over the BBQ chicken.
6. If you’re using cilantro, sprinkle some chopped cilantro over the BBQ chicken and red onion.
7. Top with another generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Place the remaining four slices of bread on top, butter-side up.

Cooking the Grilled Cheese:

1. Cook the grilled cheese sandwiches for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
2. Keep an eye on the heat! You want the bread to brown nicely without burning, and you want the cheese to melt completely. If the bread is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
3. To ensure the cheese melts evenly, you can cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute or two of cooking. This traps the heat and helps the cheese melt faster.
4. Once the grilled cheese sandwiches are golden brown and the cheese is melted, remove them from the skillet and place them on a cutting board.
5. Let the sandwiches cool for a minute or two before slicing them in half. This helps the cheese set slightly and prevents it from oozing out everywhere.
6. Slice the grilled cheese sandwiches in half diagonally and serve immediately.

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a smoked gouda would be delicious in this grilled cheese.
• Bread Options: While I love sourdough or Texas toast, you can use any type of bread you like. Brioche, ciabatta, or even rye bread would work well.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice rub for the chicken or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
• Add Some Veggies: In addition to red onion, you could add other veggies like bell peppers, jalapeños, or even some sautéed mushrooms.
• Make it a Meal: Serve the grilled cheese sandwiches with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• BBQ Sauce Variety: Don’t be afraid to try different BBQ sauces! Sweet, smoky, tangy, or spicy – the choice is yours. Each sauce will give the grilled cheese a unique flavor.
• Chicken Leftovers: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover grilled or roasted chicken. Simply shred the chicken and toss it with BBQ sauce.
• Grilling Option: If you prefer, you can grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet. Just make sure to grill it until it’s cooked through.
• Slow Cooker Chicken: For an even easier option, you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker with the spice rub and 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily.
• Bacon Addition: Everything is better with bacon! Add a few slices of cooked bacon to the grilled cheese for extra flavor and crunch.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve immediately while the cheese is melted and gooey.
• Pair with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad.
• Cut into smaller pieces for appetizers or snacks.
• Enjoy with a cold beverage, such as iced tea, lemonade, or beer.

Storage Instructions:

• Grilled cheese sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh.
• If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave until warmed through. The bread may not be as crispy as when it was first made.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per sandwich):

• Calories: 600-800 (depending on ingredients and portion sizes)
• Protein: 40-50g
• Fat: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g

This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a snack. It’s easy to make, customizable, and oh-so-delicious! Enjoy!

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 come together in perfect harmony between two slices of perfectly grilled bread. Honestly, if you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal, you absolutely have to try this. It’s the kind of comfort food that will have you craving it again and again.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While I’ve given you my go-to recipe, feel free to experiment and make it your own. Feeling adventurous? Try adding some crispy bacon for an extra layer of smoky goodness. A few slices of red onion can add a nice bite, or some pickled jalapeños can kick up the heat. For a creamier texture, consider adding a thin layer of avocado or a dollop of sour cream after grilling.

Serving Suggestions:

This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the sandwich. Or, for a heartier meal, serve it with some crispy sweet potato fries or a bowl of creamy tomato soup. If you’re having a party, cut the grilled cheese into smaller squares and serve them as appetizers – they’re always a crowd-pleaser!

Variations to Explore:

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your cheese choices! While cheddar is a classic, you could also try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile. For a spicier kick, use a spicy barbecue sauce or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the chicken. If you’re short on time, you can even use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to speed up the process. And for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms marinated in barbecue sauce.

I truly believe this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a game-changer. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and cheesy, and it’s guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover barbecue chicken, making it a budget-friendly and delicious meal option.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to experience grilled cheese perfection! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please come back and leave a comment below. Let me know what variations you tried, what sides you served it with, and what your overall thoughts are. Did you add bacon? Did you use a different type of cheese? Did you make it for a party? I’m always eager to hear your feedback and learn from your culinary adventures. Sharing your experiences helps other readers discover new and exciting ways to enjoy this delicious sandwich. Happy grilling!

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