Bbq Chicken Grilled Cheese Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting crunch of buttery bread paired with the sweet and smoky bite of BBQ chicken and gooey melted cheese. This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is the kind of sandwich that turns an ordinary lunch into something worth savoring.

this Recipes

I first made this on a rainy afternoon when we had leftover BBQ chicken from the night before. With just a few slices of sourdough and a handful of shredded cheese, I threw together what is now one of our go-to meals for lazy weekends or quick dinners. It's crispy, melty, savory perfection—ready in minutes and always a hit.

Let me show you why this sandwich deserves a spot in your regular rotation.

Why You'll Love This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite comfort sandwich. This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese checks all the boxes: it’s quick, satisfying, and ridiculously flavorful.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. You only need a few basic ingredients, most of which you probably already have. Leftover chicken? Shred it. Favorite cheese? Grab it. Bread and butter? You're halfway there.

It’s also perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sunday afternoons. No fancy equipment or long prep required—just a skillet and a few minutes on the stovetop, and you’re digging into a golden, cheesy masterpiece.

Let’s not forget how budget-friendly it is. Using pantry staples and leftover chicken means you can stretch your grocery bill a little further while still putting something totally crave-worthy on the table.

And of course, it's endlessly customizable. Whether you're into spicy BBQ sauce, smoked gouda, or prefer sourdough over white bread, this grilled cheese welcomes your twist with open arms.

Ready to gather your ingredients? Here’s what you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in layering flavor and texture, making the final result truly irresistible.

Sourdough bread is my go-to for this sandwich. It holds up well to grilling and offers a subtle tang that complements the sweetness of the BBQ sauce. If you prefer white, wheat, or even Texas toast, those work too—just choose something hearty enough to handle all the gooey filling.

Cooked chicken is the heart of the sandwich. I usually use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, but grilled or baked chicken works just as well. Dark meat tends to be more flavorful and moist, but feel free to use breast meat if that’s what you have on hand.

BBQ sauce ties everything together. I like a smoky, slightly sweet sauce, but spicy or tangy varieties are just as delicious. The sauce soaks into the chicken and adds that classic barbecue flavor that makes this sandwich stand out.

Shredded cheese is where the magic happens. I recommend a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for a rich melt with a bit of bite. Smoked gouda or Monterey Jack also work wonderfully if you're looking to switch things up.

You’ll also need butter—or mayo, if you prefer—for spreading on the bread. It creates that irresistible golden crust and helps the sandwich crisp up evenly in the pan.

No special equipment needed for this recipe. Just a good nonstick or cast-iron skillet and a spatula will do the trick.

How To Make This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Making this sandwich is as satisfying as eating it. Each step is straightforward, but I’ll walk you through the process to make sure yours turns out just right.

Start by prepping your filling. In a small bowl, combine the shredded chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated but not dripping—this helps keep the sandwich crisp, not soggy.

Next, assemble your sandwiches. Lay out two slices of bread for each sandwich. On one slice, pile a generous layer of shredded cheese, followed by the BBQ chicken, and then another layer of cheese. Top with the second slice of bread. The double cheese helps everything stick together and guarantees that gooey pull when you take a bite.

Now, get your skillet ready. Place it over medium heat and add a pat of butter to the pan—or spread butter or mayo directly onto the outsides of the bread. Once the skillet is hot and the butter is melted, carefully place your sandwich in the pan.

Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side, pressing down gently with a spatula. You’re looking for a deep golden crust. Flip it carefully, add a little more butter if needed, and cook the second side until equally crispy and the cheese is fully melted.

Once done, transfer the sandwich to a cutting board and let it rest for a minute before slicing. This helps everything settle and prevents molten cheese from spilling out immediately.

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 15–20 minutes. It’s quick, satisfying, and the payoff is a warm, melty sandwich that tastes like it came from your favorite café.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers, this grilled cheese stores better than you'd think.

Let the sandwich cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, wrap in plastic wrap followed by foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Just be aware that the bread may lose a bit of its crisp texture after thawing.

When you’re ready to reheat, avoid the microwave—it can make the bread soggy. Instead, warm the sandwich in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven until heated through and crispy on the outside. If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can tweak the ingredients based on what you have or what you’re craving.

If you’re short on chicken, try using pulled pork instead. The BBQ flavor still shines, and the rich texture makes for a hearty bite.

Swap out the cheese for something bolder, like pepper jack for spice or smoked gouda for a more complex flavor. Even brie adds a creamy, indulgent twist if you're feeling fancy.

You can also play with the BBQ sauce. Go for a Carolina-style mustard-based sauce for tang, or a spicy chipotle blend for heat. A touch of honey or maple syrup can also add an extra layer of sweetness.

Looking to sneak in some veggies? Add thinly sliced red onions or pickled jalapeños for crunch and contrast. Even sautéed bell peppers can add color and depth.

Don’t be afraid to make it your own. This sandwich is the ultimate canvas for creativity—just don’t skimp on the cheese.

Print