BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe: A Smoky, Cheesy Twist on a Classic

Few things bring as much comfort as biting into a perfectly crispy, golden grilled cheese sandwich — but imagine taking that beloved classic and turning it into something even more irresistible. Enter the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese, a mouthwatering fusion of smoky, sweet barbecue flavors and ooey-gooey melted cheese hugged between buttery, toasted bread.

This sandwich isn’t just a quick lunch; it’s the ultimate comfort food upgrade. The tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy BBQ sauce balances beautifully with the creaminess of melted cheddar and mozzarella. Each bite gives you a little crunch from the toasted bread, a hint of smokiness from the sauce, and that cheesy pull we all crave.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s everything you’ll need to make your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese — simple pantry staples that come together to create pure magic.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories (Approx.)
Cooked shredded chicken	1 cup	230
BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)	⅓ cup	60
Cheddar cheese, shredded	½ cup	200
Mozzarella cheese, shredded	½ cup	180
Butter (softened)	2 tablespoons	200
Bread slices (sourdough or white)	4 slices	280
Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)	¼ cup	10
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)	As needed	2

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
   In a bowl, combine shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the amount of sauce based on how tangy or sweet you like it.
2. Assemble the Sandwich:
   Lay two bread slices on a clean surface. Spread butter on one side of each slice — this will be the side that toasts on the skillet.
   Flip the slices over and layer cheddar cheese on one, followed by the BBQ chicken mixture, then mozzarella cheese. Add thinly sliced red onions if you like a bit of crunch and sharpness. Top with the second slice of bread (buttered side facing out).
3. Grill to Perfection:
   Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwich on the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy. Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side for another 3–4 minutes, pressing gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt evenly.
4. Check for Melted Perfection:
   Once both sides are golden brown and the cheese is melted through, remove from the skillet and let it rest for about a minute before slicing.
5. Slice and Serve:
   Cut the sandwich diagonally (because it just looks and feels better that way!) and serve warm with a little extra BBQ sauce for dipping.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Switch Up the Cheese: Try pepper jack for a spicy kick, smoked gouda for a rich flavor, or Monterey Jack for extra meltiness.
• Add Some Heat: Mix a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce into your BBQ chicken for a fiery twist.
• Make It Smokier: Use smoked chicken or add a bit of liquid smoke to your BBQ sauce for that real barbecue aroma.
• Add Veggies: Layer caramelized onions, grilled bell peppers, or crispy bacon for added texture and flavor.
• Try Different Bread: Sourdough adds a tangy crunch, while brioche gives it a soft, buttery finish.
• Meal Prep Tip: Make the BBQ chicken mix ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Assemble and grill when you’re ready for a quick, comforting meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~590 kcal
Protein	32 g
Total Fat	28 g
Saturated Fat	14 g
Carbohydrates	42 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugars	9 g
Sodium	870 mg

Serving Suggestions

• Pair It With: A fresh green salad, crispy fries, or a cup of tomato basil soup for the ultimate comfort meal.
• For Game Day: Slice into smaller triangles and serve as sliders or party bites with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
• Make It a Combo: Add coleslaw on the side or inside the sandwich for a crunchy, tangy twist.
• For a Lighter Meal: Serve alongside roasted veggies or a simple corn salad.
• Beverage Pairing: Goes perfectly with iced tea, lemonade, or even a cold craft beer.

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover chicken for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?

Definitely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken works perfectly for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese. Just shred the chicken, mix it with BBQ sauce, and you’re ready to go. It’s a great way to use up leftovers while creating a meal that tastes fresh and flavorful.

2. What type of cheese works best for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese?

Cheddar and mozzarella are a perfect combo — cheddar adds tang and richness, while mozzarella gives you that perfect cheese pull. You can also use pepper jack for a spicy kick, smoked gouda for a deeper flavor, or provolone for a smooth melt.

3. Can I make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese without butter?

Yes! You can use mayonnaise instead of butter for spreading on the bread. It gives a crispy, golden crust and adds a subtle tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the BBQ sauce.

4. What’s the best bread for a grilled cheese sandwich?

Thick-cut breads like sourdough, Texas toast, or brioche are ideal because they hold up well to the fillings and crisp nicely without getting soggy. If you want a lighter option, whole grain or multigrain bread also works great.

5. Can I make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese in the oven?

Yes! To make multiple sandwiches at once, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Assemble the sandwiches, place them on a baking sheet, and bake for 5–6 minutes per side, flipping halfway through. You’ll get evenly melted cheese and crisp bread without needing to flip on a skillet.

Conclusion

The BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes two all-time favorites — cheesy sandwiches and smoky BBQ chicken — and turns them into one unforgettable meal. It’s rich, hearty, and full of bold flavors that satisfy both your comfort food cravings and your love for melty, gooey cheese. Whether you’re cooking up a quick lunch, prepping a family dinner, or making something indulgent for yourself, this sandwich never disappoints.