Baked BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite

Baked BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a delightful twist on two classic comfort foods that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Imagine the crispy, golden-brown exterior of a perfectly grilled cheese sandwich, oozing with melted cheese, while the savory, tangy BBQ chicken adds a burst of flavor that elevates this dish to new heights. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings people together around the dinner table.

The origins of combining BBQ chicken with grilled cheese may not be well-documented, but it certainly reflects the American spirit of creativity in the kitchen. People love this dish for its incredible taste and texture; the crunch of the bread contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy chicken and gooey cheese. Plus, it’s a convenient option for busy weeknights or a fun weekend treat. Trust me, once you try this Baked BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese, it will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or white)
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup pickles, sliced (optional)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Cook the Chicken**: If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can easily prepare it. I usually boil or bake chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (about 20-30 minutes depending on thickness). Once cooked, let it cool for a few minutes. 2. **Shred the Chicken**: Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial as it allows the chicken to mix well with the BBQ sauce. 3. **Mix with BBQ Sauce**: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated. I like to taste it at this point to see if I need to add more sauce for extra flavor.

Preparing the Bread and Cheese

4. **Choose Your Bread**: Select your favorite bread. I often go for sourdough for its crusty exterior and soft interior, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand. 5. **Butter the Bread**: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will help achieve that golden, crispy crust when we grill the sandwiches. 6. **Prepare the Cheese**: If you’re using block cheese, shred it now. I find that freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese. Aim for about 1/4 cup of cheese per sandwich.

Assembling the Sandwiches

7. **Layer the Ingredients**: On the unbuttered side of two slices of bread, start by adding a generous layer of the BBQ chicken mixture. Then, sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese on top of the chicken. If you’re using red onions or pickles, add them now for an extra crunch and flavor. 8. **Top with More Cheese**: Add another layer of cheese on top of the toppings. This helps to bind everything together when the sandwich is grilled. 9. **Close the Sandwich**: Place the other two slices of bread on top, buttered side facing out. Press down gently to help the sandwich hold together.

Cooking Process

10. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the sandwiches cook evenly and the cheese melts perfectly. 11. **Grill the Sandwiches**: In a large skillet or griddle over medium heat, place the sandwiches. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the bread is golden brown and crispy. If you have a panini press, you can use that for an even better result. 12. **Transfer to the Oven**: Once both sides are golden, transfer the sandwiches to a baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Serving the Sandwiches

13. **Remove from Oven**: Carefully take the sandwiches out of the oven. Let them cool for a minute or two before slicing, as the cheese will be extremely hot. 14. **Slice and Serve**: Using a sharp knife, cut the sandwiches in half diagonally. This not only makes them easier to eat but also showcases the gooey cheese and BBQ chicken inside. 15. **Garnish**: If you like, sprinkle some fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. You can also serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips and Variations

16. **Add Vegetables**: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the chicken mixture for added nutrition and flavor. 17. **Cheese Variations**: Experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack adds a nice kick, while gouda gives a smoky flavor. 18. **Make it Spicy**: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ chicken mixture. 19. **Leftover Chicken**: This recipe is

Conclusion:

In summary, this Baked BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their comfort food game. The combination of tender, flavorful BBQ chicken and gooey, melted cheese nestled between perfectly toasted bread creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner, a game day gathering, or a cozy weekend lunch, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. For a fun twist, consider adding some sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick or swapping out the chicken for pulled pork or even a vegetarian option like roasted vegetables. You can also experiment with different types of cheese—sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or even a creamy mozzarella can all bring their own unique flair to this dish. Pair it with a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even some homemade coleslaw for a complete meal that will leave everyone satisfied. I encourage you to give this Baked BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese a try and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you come up with. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, and I’m sure others would appreciate your insights as well. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite! Print