Ah, BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese! Just saying that brings back memories of summer cookouts and cozy family dinners. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was experimenting with some leftover BBQ chicken and a surplus of cheese. Who knew a simple combination could become a beloved staple in my household? This recipe is the perfect blend of smokiness from BBQ, creaminess from the cheese, and the satisfying crunch of perfectly grilled bread.
What I love most about BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a fun dinner, or a tasty snack while binge-watching your favorite show, this sandwich ticks all the boxes. Let’s dive into what makes this melty delight so special!
What’s in BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
Chicken: Shredded BBQ chicken is the star of this sandwich. I typically use leftovers from my weekend BBQ, but you can easily pick up a rotisserie chicken if you’re in a hurry.
BBQ Sauce: A good-quality BBQ sauce brings the flavors together. I love using Sweet Baby Ray’s for its balanced sweetness, but feel free to use your favorite brand!
Cheese: I like to use a combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella. The cheddar provides a nice tangy kick, while the mozzarella gives you that gooey meltiness we all crave.
Bread: Sourdough or classic white bread work beautifully for this. The important part is that it holds up well to grilling to become golden and crispy.
Butter: A bit of butter goes on the outside of the bread for that irresistible golden crust. It’s all about the crunch and flavor!
Is BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health aspects of this delicious sandwich! While BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese might not exactly fall into the “health food” category, it certainly has its benefits.
Shredded Chicken: It’s a great source of lean protein. Plus, if you use skinless chicken breast, you’re cutting down on excess fat and calories.
Cheese: While cheese can be high in calories and fat, it also provides calcium and protein. Moderation is key here; a little cheese can go a long way!
BBQ Sauce: Look for lower-sugar options if you’re watching your sugar intake. Homemade BBQ sauce is also an excellent option, so you can control what goes into it.
Of course, this meal is best enjoyed in moderation. Pair it with a fresh side salad or some crunchy veggies to round it out!
Ingredients
– 2 slices of bread (sourdough or white)
– 1 cup shredded BBQ chicken
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
*Serves: 1-2, depending on your hunger level!*
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?
1. Start by heating a skillet over medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until well coated.
3. Butter one side of each slice of bread. This is going to make your sandwich crispy and delicious!
4. Lay one slice of bread, butter-side down, on the skillet.
5. On top of the bread, layer half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
6. Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese, then layer the rest of the cheese on top.
7. Place the second slice of bread on top, butter-side up.
8. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip gently and cook on the other side for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted.
9. Once both sides are golden brown and the cheese is gooey, remove from the skillet, slice in half, and let it cool for a minute (if you can wait!).
Serving Suggestions for the Ultimate BBQ Experience!
You know what pairs well with this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese? A chilled pickle or a little bowl of creamy coleslaw on the side for that perfect crunch! You can also dip your sandwich in some ranch dressing or more BBQ sauce for an added boost of flavor. Craving something spicy? Add jalapeños to your chicken mix for some heat!
I hope you feel inspired to try making this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese in your kitchen. It’s one of those feel-good meals that’s sure to put a smile on your face—and your tastebuds will thank you! If you do give it a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Happy cooking!
