BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

This BBQ chicken grilled cheese sandwich transforms simple ingredients into an indulgent comfort food experience. The combination of smoky BBQ chicken, creamy Havarti cheese, and garlicky butter creates a sandwich that's both familiar and exciting.

I first made these sandwiches when looking for creative ways to use leftover chicken, and they've since become my family's most requested quick dinner. My teenagers now ask for them specifically on busy weeknights when we need something satisfying without much fuss.

Ingredients

• Shredded roasted chicken: Provides the protein foundation and saves time by using leftovers or rotisserie chicken
• BBQ sauce: Adds sweet and tangy flavor that elevates the sandwich beyond basic grilled cheese
• Havarti cheese: Melts beautifully with a buttery flavor that complements the BBQ chicken perfectly
• Sourdough bread: Offers sturdiness and a slight tang that balances the rich filling
• Garlic butter mixture: Creates an aromatic exterior that crisps up beautifully

How To Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Prepare the BBQ chicken filling:

Cook the thinly sliced red onion in olive oil until softened and slightly translucent, about 2 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant but not browned, approximately 30 seconds. Stir in the shredded chicken, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce, combining thoroughly until everything is well coated and heated through, which takes about 2-3 minutes.

Create the garlic butter spread:

Combine the butter, minced garlic, and chopped fresh parsley in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat until just melted so the ingredients blend together smoothly. The garlic will infuse into the butter, creating an aromatic mixture that will transform ordinary bread into a flavorful grilled sandwich exterior.

Assemble the sandwiches:

Lay out all bread slices and spread each piece with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring even coverage. On six slices, layer one slice of Havarti cheese, followed by an even portion of the BBQ chicken mixture, then another slice of Havarti. Top with the remaining bread slices, making sure the buttered sides face outward on both top and bottom.

Cook until golden and melty:

Place the assembled sandwiches in a preheated nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook until the bottom develops a golden brown crust, about 3-5 minutes. Flip carefully using a spatula, reduce the heat slightly to medium-low, and continue cooking until the second side browns and the cheese inside melts completely, approximately another 3-5 minutes.

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My favorite part of this recipe is how the Worcestershire sauce adds an unexpected depth to the BBQ chicken mixture. I discovered this trick when I accidentally splashed some in while making the filling, and now I consider it essential. The slight umami boost it provides makes these sandwiches truly memorable.

Make-Ahead Options

These sandwiches work beautifully for meal prep. You can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use, simply reheat it in a microwave or small saucepan until warmed through before assembling your sandwiches. The garlic butter can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week just bring it to room temperature before spreading.

Serving Suggestions

These hearty sandwiches pair wonderfully with simple sides that balance their richness. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers refreshing contrast. Homemade coleslaw provides a traditional BBQ pairing that complements the flavors in the sandwich. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside sweet potato fries or a cup of tomato soup for dipping. I often set up a casual buffet with the sandwiches cut into triangles and various sides when entertaining.

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Ingredient Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. If Havarti cheese is unavailable, substitute with monterey jack, gouda, or even a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for similar melting properties and flavor. For the bread, while sourdough provides excellent structure and flavor, brioche creates a more indulgent experience, and whole grain bread adds nutritional value. Vegetarians can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit tossed in the same BBQ sauce mixture for a similar texture and flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Any BBQ sauce works, but a smoky or sweet variety pairs exceptionally well with the Havarti cheese.

→ Can I substitute Havarti cheese?

Yes, you can use other creamy melting cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even mozzarella as substitutes.

→ How do I make the bread extra crisp?

Ensure the skillet is preheated before adding the sandwiches and cook over medium heat for that perfect golden crust.

→ Can this be made ahead of time?

While best fresh, you can prepare the BBQ chicken ahead of time and assemble the sandwiches when ready to cook.

→ What can I serve with these sandwiches?

Pair them with a light side like coleslaw, a simple salad, or homemade tomato soup for a complete meal.