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This BBQ chicken grilled cheese sandwich transforms leftover chicken into an irresistible meal packed with savory flavors and melty cheese. The combination of tangy BBQ sauce and creamy Havarti creates a perfect balance that elevates the humble grilled cheese to gourmet status.
I first made these sandwiches when looking for creative ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken. My family was immediately hooked and now specifically requests that I buy extra chicken just so we can make these sandwiches the next day.
Ingredients
- Shredded roasted chicken: Gives this sandwich hearty substance and saves time by using leftovers or store bought rotisserie chicken
- BBQ sauce: Adds tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with chicken look for one with a balance of sweet and smoky notes
- Havarti cheese: Melts beautifully with a mild creamy flavor that complements the bold BBQ sauce without competing
- Sourdough bread: Provides a sturdy foundation that can stand up to all the fillings while offering great texture and flavor
- Red onion: Adds a mild bite and pleasant sweetness when cooked down
- Garlic: Infuses the butter and the filling with aromatic flavor choose fresh cloves for the best taste
- Worcestershire sauce: Brings depth and umami to enhance the BBQ sauce
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that reinforces the BBQ flavor profile
How To Make BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
- Prepare the BBQ Chicken Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook thinly sliced red onions until they become translucent and soft about 2 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant roughly 30 seconds being careful not to burn it. Mix in your shredded chicken paprika Worcestershire sauce and BBQ sauce stirring to coat everything evenly. Allow the mixture to heat through completely which should take 2 to 3 minutes.
- Create the Garlic Butter:
- Combine softened butter with minced garlic and chopped fresh parsley in a bowl. Microwave briefly just until the butter melts completely. This flavored butter will create a golden crust on your bread while adding extra flavor to every bite.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Lay out all bread slices on your work surface and spread the garlic butter mixture on one side of each slice. On half of the bread slices place one slice of Havarti then add a generous portion of the BBQ chicken mixture. Top with a second slice of Havarti and complete the sandwich with another piece of bread butter side facing outward.
- Cook to Golden Perfection:
- Place assembled sandwiches in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook until the bottom develops a rich golden brown color approximately 3 to 5 minutes. Carefully flip each sandwich reduce the heat to medium low and continue cooking until the second side is equally golden and the cheese has completely melted about another 3 to 5 minutes.
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The Havarti cheese is truly what makes this sandwich special. Unlike cheddar or American cheese which can separate when melted Havarti maintains its creamy texture while complementing the tangy BBQ sauce perfectly. I discovered this cheese pairing accidentally when I ran out of my usual cheese and have never looked back.
Make Ahead Options
These sandwiches can be partially prepped ahead of time to make mealtime even faster. Prepare the BBQ chicken mixture up to two days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The garlic butter can also be made ahead and kept refrigerated. When ready to eat simply assemble and cook the sandwiches fresh for the best texture and melty cheese experience.
Perfect Pairings
These hearty sandwiches pair wonderfully with lighter sides to balance the meal. Try serving with a crisp green salad dressed simply with vinaigrette or a small portion of vinegar based coleslaw for contrast. If you want something warm a cup of tomato soup makes this a classic soup and sandwich combination that works beautifully with the BBQ flavors.
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Customization Ideas
This recipe serves as an excellent base that can be adapted to suit various preferences. Try adding thin slices of apple for sweetness and crunch or substitute pulled pork for chicken. For heat lovers a few thin slices of jalapeño inside the sandwich add a pleasant kick. The cheese can be changed too though I recommend sticking with good melting varieties like monterey jack provolone or fontina.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of bread works best for this dish?
Sourdough or any sturdy white bread is ideal as it holds up well during pan-frying without getting soggy.
- → Can I substitute Havarti cheese?
Yes, you can use any melty cheese like Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even sharp cheddar for a distinct flavor.
- → How can I save time with the chicken filling?
Using pre-cooked shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for making the chicken filling quickly.
- → What can I serve with these sandwiches?
Pair the sandwiches with a fresh side salad, coleslaw, or even a cup of tomato soup for a complete meal.
- → Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
While it's best to assemble and cook them fresh, you can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to use.