BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are a delightful fusion of flavors that will elevate any meal. This dish combines the smoky essence of BBQ chicken with the creamy richness of melted Havarti cheese, all sandwiched between perfectly toasted bread. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners, casual gatherings, or a quick lunch. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare while still delivering on taste and satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of BBQ chicken and Havarti cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Quick to Prepare: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Meal Option: Great for lunch or dinner, this sandwich can be served with various sides.
- Family-Friendly Dish: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting twist on grilled cheese.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the BBQ sauce to your liking.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Frying pan
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Frying pan: A good frying pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden-brown crust on the bread.
- Spatula: This tool is essential for flipping your sandwiches without spilling the delicious filling.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing ingredients easier and safer.
- Cutting board: A stable surface for chopping enhances safety while preparing your ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small red onion, (thinly sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic, (minced)
For the Filling
- 2 ½ cups shredded roasted chicken
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
For Assembly
- 12 slices Havarti cheese
- ¼ cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, (minced)
- 2 teaspoons parsley, (minced)
- 12 slices sourdough bread or sturdy white bread
How to Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Add thinly sliced red onion and cook until soft.
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Mix in shredded roasted chicken, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce. Cook until heated through.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
- In a small bowl, mix butter with minced garlic and parsley.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture on one side of each slice of bread.
- On the non-buttered side, layer Havarti cheese followed by a generous amount of the BBQ chicken mixture, then top with another slice of cheese.
Step 3: Grill the Sandwiches
- Heat a clean frying pan over medium heat again.
- Place assembled sandwiches in the pan, buttered side down.
- Cook for about 4–5 minutes until golden brown; flip carefully and grill other side until cheese melts.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove sandwiches from the pan and let them cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce or your choice of sides.
Now you’re ready to enjoy delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches! Perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be served in various ways to elevate your meal.
Classic Pairings
- Pickles – A crunchy, tangy addition that complements the richness of the sandwich.
- Potato Chips – For a satisfying crunch, serve with your favorite flavored chips.
- Coleslaw – This refreshing side adds a nice contrast to the warm, cheesy sandwich.
Dipping Sauces
- Extra BBQ Sauce – A sweet and smoky dip that enhances the BBQ flavor.
- Ranch Dressing – Creamy ranch provides a cool balance to the heat of the garlic.
- Hot Sauce – For those who enjoy a kick, hot sauce is a perfect choice.
Garnishes
- Fresh Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Sliced Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats, making the meal more satisfying.
How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
To create the ultimate BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese will enhance flavors significantly.
- Butter the bread generously – A good amount of butter ensures a crispy crust and rich flavor.
- Control the heat – Cooking on medium-low heat allows for even melting without burning the bread.
- Layer wisely – Place cheese both inside and on top of the filling for maximum gooeyness.
- Experiment with cheeses – While Havarti is creamy, mixing in cheddar can add sharpness and depth.
Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Pairing your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich with delightful sides can make your meal even better. Here are some great options:
- Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy, sweet fries add a unique flavor contrast.
- Caesar Salad – A classic salad that brings crunch and zest alongside your sandwich.
- Tomato Soup – Perfect for dipping; this comforting soup complements grilled cheese beautifully.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled, corn adds sweetness and texture to your meal.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing medley of fruits lightens up the plate and adds natural sweetness.
- Baked Beans – Smoky beans offer a hearty side that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches can be simple, yet people often make mistakes that affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Using the wrong bread: Opt for sourdough or sturdy white bread for the best texture. Avoid soft breads that won’t hold up to the filling.
- Neglecting to season: Don’t skip seasoning the chicken! Use spices like paprika for added flavor. This enhances the overall taste of the sandwich.
- Overloading with cheese: While cheese is essential, too much can make it greasy. Stick to 12 slices of Havarti for a balanced melt.
- Cooking on high heat: Cooking too fast can burn the bread before heating the filling. Use medium heat for even cooking.
- Skipping garlic butter: Garlic butter adds a rich flavor. Don’t skip this step; it elevates your sandwich to another level.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Wrap sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, but expect softer bread.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until heated and crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While Havarti is creamy, feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for varied flavors.
What type of chicken should I use?
Shredded roasted chicken works best, but you can also use grilled or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
How do I customize my BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich?
Add toppings like jalapeños, pickles, or avocado to create your own unique twist!
Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them in advance and store them properly as mentioned above for easy meals later.
Final Thoughts
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are not just delicious but incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings or ingredients. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a cozy meal that satisfies cravings!
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 sandwiches 1x
Description
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food that brings together a perfect blend of flavors. Imagine tender shredded chicken coated in tangy BBQ sauce, layered with creamy Havarti cheese, all encased between slices of buttery toasted bread. This scrumptious sandwich is not only quick to prepare—taking just 25 minutes from prep to plate—but also versatile enough for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings or looking for a satisfying meal after a busy day, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ½ cups shredded roasted chicken
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 12 slices Havarti cheese
- ¼ cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons parsley, minced
- 12 slices sourdough or sturdy white bread
Instructions
- In a frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion and sauté until soft, then stir in minced garlic for an additional minute.
- Mix in shredded chicken, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce; heat through.
- In a small bowl, combine butter with minced garlic and parsley. Spread on one side of each slice of bread.
- On the non-buttered side, layer Havarti cheese followed by BBQ chicken mixture and top with another slice of cheese.
- Grill sandwiches in a frying pan over medium heat for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese melts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
