BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are the perfect addition to any dinner table. This delightful combination of savory BBQ chicken and creamy Havarti cheese nestled between buttery, toasted bread is sure to satisfy your cravings. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend treat, these sandwiches deliver bold flavors and comforting goodness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a 10-minute prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
Flavor Packed: The combination of BBQ sauce, garlic, and Havarti cheese creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
Versatile: Great as a main dish or a snack, these sandwiches can be enjoyed at any time.
Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy twist on classic BBQ chicken.
Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare the chicken ahead of time for an even faster cooking process during the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make the BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with ease, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in creating a delicious sandwich.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Non-stick skillet
Spatula
Mixing bowl
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, allowing for perfectly toasted bread.
Spatula: Helps flip the sandwiches easily without spilling any delicious filling.
Mixing bowl: Aids in combining ingredients smoothly for an even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

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

For the Sandwich 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 Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil.
Sauté the thinly sliced red onion until translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Stir in shredded roasted chicken, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce. Mix thoroughly until warmed through.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
On the unbuttered side of half of the slices, layer Havarti cheese followed by the BBQ chicken filling.
Top with another slice of bread (buttered side up) to complete each sandwich.

Step 3: Cook the Sandwiches

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook until golden brown on one side (about 3-4 minutes).
Flip carefully with a spatula and cook until both sides are crispy and cheese is melted (another 3-4 minutes).

Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches hot off the skillet!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are not just a meal; they are an experience. These savory sandwiches pair well with various sides and drinks, enhancing their delightful flavors.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: Combine fresh greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing crunch.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add a nice contrast to the richness of the grilled cheese.

Enjoy with Dipping Sauces

Extra BBQ Sauce: Serve additional BBQ sauce on the side for those who crave extra flavor.
Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic aioli can elevate your sandwich to new heights of deliciousness.

Add Some Crunch

Potato Chips: Crispy potato chips provide a satisfying crunch that complements the soft sandwich.
Pickles: Serve with pickles for a zesty bite that balances the richness of the cheese and chicken.

How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Creating the ideal BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your sandwiches are perfect every time.

Bold seasoning: Use enough paprika and Worcestershire sauce in your chicken mixture to enhance the overall flavor.
Quality bread: Choose sturdy sourdough or thick white bread that can hold up against the filling without becoming soggy.
Proper heat control: Cook on medium heat to ensure cheese melts evenly without burning the bread.
Pre-shred chicken: Shredding roasted chicken in advance saves time and ensures even distribution of flavor throughout the sandwich.
Experiment with cheeses: While Havarti is delicious, try mixing in other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for added depth.
Butter generously: Don’t skimp on buttering your bread before grilling; this creates that golden, crispy crust everyone loves.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Side dishes can enhance your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese experience. Here’s a list of great options to consider.

Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy fries add a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with your savory sandwich.
Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn brushed with butter brings summer vibes to any meal and complements the flavors perfectly.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad offers a refreshing contrast and adds a touch of sweetness to your plate.
Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Crunchy veggie sticks dipped in creamy hummus make for a healthy side option that balances richness.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these sprouts provide an earthy flavor that works well with barbecue notes.
Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad is comfort food at its finest and pairs exceptionally well with grilled cheese sandwiches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

Using stale bread: Fresh bread is crucial for a delicious sandwich. Opt for freshly baked sourdough or sturdy white bread for the best results.
Not seasoning the chicken: Underseasoned chicken can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you season the chicken well with paprika and Worcestershire sauce for a tasty kick.
Overloading on BBQ sauce: Too much sauce can make the sandwich soggy. Use just enough BBQ sauce to coat the chicken without soaking the bread.
Neglecting the butter: Forgetting to butter the outside of the bread can lead to uneven browning. Always spread a good layer of garlicky butter for a perfect golden crust.
Cooking at too high heat: Cooking on high heat can burn the bread before the cheese melts. Use medium heat for even cooking and melty cheese.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Oven: Preheat your oven 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 hot, but this may make the bread soft.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter, then grill each side of the sandwich until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Havarti is creamy and melts well, you can experiment with mozzarella or cheddar for different flavors.

How can I customize my BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich?

Feel free to add extra toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or coleslaw for added texture and flavor.

What sides pair well with BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches?

Great sides include a fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or homemade potato chips that complement the richness of the sandwich.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

You can use whole grain bread and reduce the amount of butter used on the outside for a lighter option while still enjoying great flavor.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Whether it’s lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds. Give it a try today!

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich

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Author: Aylani
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 6 sandwiches 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the mouthwatering delight of BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, where savory roasted chicken meets creamy Havarti cheese, all encased in perfectly toasted bread. This easy-to-make dish is not only a perfect weeknight meal but also a delightful treat for weekends. The bold flavors of tangy BBQ sauce and rich garlic make each bite satisfying and comforting. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 ½ cups shredded roasted chicken
½ teaspoon paprika
1 cup BBQ sauce
12 slices Havarti cheese
¼ cup butter
12 slices sourdough or sturdy white bread

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onion and sauté until translucent.
Stir in minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Add shredded chicken, paprika, and BBQ sauce; mix well until warmed through.
Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side of half the slices, layer Havarti cheese followed by the BBQ chicken mixture. Top with another slice of bread (buttered side up).
Cook sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese melts.