Name: BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 ½ cups shredded roasted chicken; ½ tsp paprika; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup BBQ sauce; ¼ cup butter, melted; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp parsley, minced; 12 slices sourdough bread; 12 slices Havarti cheese

There’s something incredibly comforting about a grilled cheese sandwich. That crispy, buttery bread paired with gooey, melted cheese is the ultimate nostalgia trip. But what if we took that childhood favorite and gave it an irresistible, flavor-packed upgrade? Enter BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese—a sandwich that’s smoky, cheesy, tangy, and absolutely satisfying.

This sandwich is all about bold flavors and contrasting textures. It starts with thick slices of sourdough bread, generously brushed with garlicky butter to achieve that golden, crispy exterior. Inside, there’s a luscious combination of Havarti cheese, shredded BBQ chicken, and sautéed onions—all melted together into an ooey-gooey masterpiece. The tanginess of the BBQ sauce balances perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese, while the caramelized onions add a hint of sweetness.

I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I was craving something both hearty and easy to put together. I had some leftover roasted chicken in the fridge and a fresh loaf of sourdough from the bakery. A few minutes later, I had a sandwich that felt like a restaurant-quality meal made at home. It was an instant hit, and now it’s my go-to whenever I need a quick but indulgent bite.

This sandwich is perfect for casual dinners, game-day snacks, or even a fun weekend meal with family. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and so incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a BBQ lover or a grilled cheese fanatic, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are a million reasons to fall in love with this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese. It’s one of those meals that hits all the right notes—crispy, cheesy, smoky, and just the right amount of sweet and savory. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes with just a handful of simple ingredients. It’s the perfect option for a quick weeknight meal or a last-minute snack.
Packed with Flavor: The combination of BBQ sauce, sautéed onions, melty cheese, and buttery toasted bread is unbelievably good. Every bite is bursting with smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors.
Perfectly Crispy: The garlic butter spread on the bread ensures that each sandwich is perfectly golden and crispy on the outside while staying soft and cheesy on the inside.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this sandwich. You can adjust the flavors by choosing a mild or smoky BBQ sauce, or switching up the cheese.
Customizable: You can easily tweak this recipe to fit your preferences. Swap the Havarti for cheddar or mozzarella, add some crispy turkey bacon, or throw in some jalapeños for a spicy kick.

This sandwich is comfort food at its best. It’s everything you want in a grilled cheese but with a BBQ-inspired twist that makes it completely irresistible.

Health Benefits

While this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese leans toward indulgence, it still offers some nutritional benefits that make it a great meal choice:

High in Protein: Thanks to the shredded chicken and cheese, this sandwich packs plenty of protein, which helps keep you full and satisfied for longer.
Calcium-Rich: Cheese is a great source of calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Healthy Fats: The olive oil used to sauté the onions provides a good dose of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Antioxidants: The red onions and garlic not only add depth of flavor but also provide antioxidants that support immune health.
Customizable to Be Healthier: If you want to lighten things up, you can use whole-grain bread, low-fat cheese, or a sugar-free BBQ sauce to cut down on calories and refined carbs.

This sandwich can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for an even more nutritious meal.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6 sandwiches

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 520
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 8g

These numbers can vary slightly depending on the ingredients you use, especially the type of BBQ sauce and bread.

Ingredients List

To make this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the BBQ Chicken Mixture:

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 (choose your favorite brand or homemade)

For the Garlic Butter Bread:

¼ cup butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons parsley, minced
12 slices sourdough bread (or sturdy white bread)
12 slices Havarti cheese (or substitute with mozzarella or cheddar)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Set aside.
Cook the BBQ Chicken Mixture:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced red onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shredded chicken, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce.
- Stir well and let the mixture heat through for about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread garlic butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place one slice of cheese on the non-buttered side of half the bread slices.
- Spoon a generous amount of BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese.
- Add another slice of cheese, then top with the second piece of bread (buttered side facing out).
Cook the Sandwiches:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Flip carefully, reduce heat slightly, and cook until the cheese is fully melted.
Serve Immediately: Transfer to a plate, let cool for 1-2 minutes, then slice in half and serve hot.

How to Serve

With a Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the sandwich.
With Fries or Chips: Go classic with a side of crispy French fries or potato chips.
With Soup: Try it with a warm bowl of tomato soup or creamy roasted red pepper soup.

Pairing Suggestions

Beverages: This sandwich pairs well with iced tea, fresh lemonade, or a fizzy soda.
Additional Toppings: Add sliced avocado, jalapeños, or crispy turkey bacon for extra flavor.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Wrap each sandwich in foil and freeze for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Using Enough Butter: Skipping the garlic butter can make the sandwich dry.
Using Low-Quality Bread: A sturdy bread like sourdough holds up better.
Overcooking the Sandwich: Cooking on high heat burns the bread before the cheese melts.

Creative Variations to Try

One of the best things about this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is how easy it is to customize. You can switch up the ingredients to create a new flavor profile while keeping that crispy, melty goodness intact. Try using different cheeses like sharp cheddar for a bolder taste or smoked gouda for a rich, creamy twist. If you’re a fan of spice, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot honey for a little heat and sweetness. For a smoky upgrade, use grilled chicken instead of roasted chicken, which adds depth to the sandwich. Want to add a little crunch? Toss in crispy turkey bacon or caramelized onions to elevate the texture. If you prefer a lighter option, use whole-grain bread and low-fat cheese, or swap out the butter for avocado oil to reduce saturated fat. Whatever your taste preference, this sandwich is the perfect base for experimenting with new flavors.

Making It a Party Favorite

This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese isn’t just a great personal meal—it’s also a fantastic dish to serve at gatherings. If you’re hosting a casual get-together, consider making mini grilled cheese sliders using dinner rolls or small sandwich bread. Cut them into smaller portions so guests can grab one without needing utensils. If you’re planning a BBQ-themed night, serve these sandwiches alongside grilled corn, baked beans, and coleslaw for a fully loaded meal. Another fun idea is to create a grilled cheese bar with different cheese and topping options, allowing guests to customize their own sandwich before grilling. Pair it with a few refreshing drinks like homemade iced tea or fruit-infused water to keep things balanced.

How to Make It Kid-Friendly

If you’re making this sandwich for kids, a few simple tweaks can make it even more appealing to little ones. First, opt for milder cheese like mozzarella or American cheese, which melts beautifully and has a milder flavor that kids love. Instead of strong, smoky BBQ sauce, go for a sweet and mild version or make your own by mixing ketchup with a touch of honey and a little garlic powder. If your child isn’t a fan of onions, leave them out or replace them with thinly sliced bell peppers for a touch of sweetness. Another trick is to cut the sandwiches into fun shapes using large cookie cutters, making them more exciting to eat. Serve with a simple side like apple slices or carrot sticks to create a well-balanced meal that kids will happily devour.

Turning It into a Meal Prep Favorite

This sandwich is already quick to make, but if you want to cut down on prep time even more, there are a few easy tricks. Make the BBQ chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to make your sandwich, simply reheat the chicken mixture in the microwave or skillet before assembling. If you’re planning to freeze sandwiches for future meals, assemble them without cooking and freeze individually wrapped in foil or parchment paper. When you need a fast meal, just cook directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two per side. You can also prepare the garlic butter in advance and store it in the fridge for a week, so it’s ready to spread on bread whenever you need a quick, delicious sandwich.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of roasted chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to the sandwich. Just shred it and mix it with the BBQ sauce as directed.

What is the best type of BBQ sauce to use?
That depends on your taste! If you like smoky flavors, go for a hickory-smoked BBQ sauce. If you prefer something sweet, a honey-based BBQ sauce works well. Spicy lovers can opt for a chipotle BBQ sauce.

Can I make this sandwich in the oven instead of a skillet?
Yes! Preheat the oven to 375°F, assemble the sandwiches on a baking sheet, and bake for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

What’s the best cheese for this grilled cheese?
Havarti melts beautifully, but you can also use mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or smoked gouda. Mixing two cheeses can add even more flavor.

How do I prevent my grilled cheese from getting soggy?
Make sure to butter the bread evenly so it crisps up well, and don’t overload it with too much BBQ sauce, as excess moisture can make the sandwich soggy.

Can I use a panini press instead of a skillet?
Yes! A panini press works great because it applies even pressure and ensures both sides get crispy. Just be careful not to overfill the sandwich so the filling doesn’t ooze out.

Is there a dairy-free option?
You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and swap the butter for olive oil or a plant-based spread. The texture will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Can I add extra vegetables to the sandwich?
Definitely! Try adding sliced bell peppers, spinach, arugula, or even mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is the perfect combination of comfort food and bold flavors. Try it for your next lunch or dinner, and let me know how you customized it! Share your creations by tagging me on social media or dropping a comment below. Happy cooking!