Description
This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwich is the perfect marriage of two comfort food classics. Tender, shredded roasted chicken is coated in a rich and smoky BBQ sauce, then layered with creamy Havarti cheese between slices of garlic-buttered sourdough bread. The sandwich is grilled to golden perfection, creating a crispy exterior that gives way to a melty, flavorful interior. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch, this sandwich offers a satisfying, savory experience that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Scale
BBQ Chicken:
- 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
Garlic Butter Bread:
- ¼ cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons parsley, minced
- 12 slices sourdough bread or sturdy white bread
Instructions
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the red onion and cook until soft, about 2 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Add the shredded chicken, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook until everything is heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Bread:
- In a medium bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Stir in the minced garlic and parsley.
- Lay 12 slices of bread on a work surface. Spread the melted garlic butter mixture over one side of each slice.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Turn the slices over so the buttered side is facing down. On six of the slices, layer a slice of Havarti cheese, followed by the BBQ chicken mixture, and then another slice of Havarti cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
4. Cook the Sandwiches:
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook until the bottoms are golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
- Carefully flip the sandwiches and reduce the heat to medium-low. Continue cooking until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is melted, another 3-5 minutes.
5. Serve:
- Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, let them sit for a minute, then slice them diagonally. Serve immediately, with sides like tomato soup or pickles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: The BBQ chicken mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it before assembling the sandwiches.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella, and try using different breads such as brioche or ciabatta. Additional toppings like jalapeños, bacon, or pickles can also add exciting new flavors.
- Cooking Methods: This sandwich can also be made in an air fryer or panini press for a different texture. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.