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This BBQ chicken grilled cheese sandwich transforms ordinary grilled cheese into a hearty meal that satisfies both comfort food cravings and hunger. The combination of tangy BBQ chicken with creamy Havarti cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile that elevates the classic sandwich to new heights.
I first made these sandwiches on a rainy Sunday when we needed something cozy but substantial. Now they've become our go to meal when we want something that feels indulgent but comes together quickly.
Ingredients
- Thinly sliced red onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and beautiful color
- Minced garlic: Provides aromatic depth to both the chicken filling and butter spread
- Shredded roasted chicken: Creates a hearty protein base; look for rotisserie chicken for convenience
- Paprika: Adds a gentle smoky quality that complements the BBQ sauce
- Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami depth and enhances the savory flavors
- BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite variety; sweet or spicy depending on preference
- Havarti cheese: Melts beautifully and has a buttery flavor that balances the tangy BBQ
- Sourdough bread: Provides the perfect sturdy base with a slight tang
- Butter: Creates that golden crispy exterior everyone loves in a grilled cheese
- Fresh parsley: Brightens the garlic butter and adds visual appeal
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the BBQ Chicken Mixture:
- Cook those red onions until they become translucent and slightly soft which takes about 2 minutes over medium heat. The onions should become sweet as they cook down but not brown. Add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant approximately 30 seconds careful not to let it burn as it will become bitter. Introduce your shredded chicken paprika Worcestershire sauce and BBQ sauce stirring everything thoroughly to ensure even coating. Allow the mixture to heat completely through about 2 to 3 minutes. The chicken should be warm and the sauce should slightly thicken.
- Create the Garlic Butter Spread:
- Combine butter garlic and parsley in a microwave safe bowl. Heat until just melted usually 20 to 30 seconds depending on your microwave power. Stir well to distribute the garlic and herbs evenly throughout the butter. This flavored butter will create an aromatic golden crust on your sandwich.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Arrange your bread slices on a clean work surface and spread the garlic butter mixture on one side of each slice. Flip six slices over so the unbuttered side faces up. Place a slice of Havarti on each of these six pieces. Distribute the BBQ chicken mixture evenly among these six slices being careful not to overstuff. Add another slice of Havarti on top of the chicken to ensure proper cheese melting on both sides. Complete each sandwich with the remaining bread slices keeping the buttered side facing outward.
- Cook to Golden Perfection:
- Place your assembled sandwiches in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook until the bottom develops a beautiful golden brown crust approximately 3 to 5 minutes. Using a spatula carefully flip each sandwich reduce heat to medium low and continue cooking until the second side browns and the cheese fully melts about 3 to 5 minutes more. The lower heat allows the cheese to melt completely without burning the bread.
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The Havarti cheese is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered it after years of making grilled cheese with cheddar and was amazed at how creamy and velvety it makes these sandwiches. My family now refuses to have grilled cheese any other way especially when paired with the sweet tanginess of the BBQ chicken.
Make-Ahead Options
This recipe works beautifully for meal prep. You can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use simply reheat it in a skillet or microwave before assembling your sandwiches. The garlic butter can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator just bring it to room temperature before spreading so it's easily spreadable. Having these components ready to go makes this a perfect weeknight dinner option that comes together in minutes.
Customization Ideas
While this recipe is delicious as written there are countless ways to make it your own. Try different cheese varieties such as smoked gouda or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles. Add sliced avocado or tomato between the cheese layers for freshness and additional texture. For heat lovers mix some diced jalapeños into the chicken mixture or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors honey chipotle bourbon or mango habanero to create completely different taste experiences with the same basic recipe.
Serving Suggestions
These hearty sandwiches pair wonderfully with lighter sides to balance the meal. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich sandwich. Sweet potato fries or a cup of tomato soup make excellent companions for a more substantial meal. For casual entertaining cut the sandwiches into quarters and serve as appetizers alongside a variety of dipping sauces like ranch buffalo or additional BBQ sauce. These versatile sandwiches work equally well for lunch dinner or even a creative brunch option.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of bread works best for this dish?
Sourdough or sturdy white bread is recommended for its ability to hold the fillings while toasting perfectly.
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Havarti with cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese that melts well.
- → What is the cooking time for this dish?
The total cooking time is approximately 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy option.
- → How can I make this meal spicier?
Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of chili flakes to the BBQ chicken mixture for extra heat.
- → Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Yes, you can cook and shred the chicken ahead of time. Store it in the fridge and heat it with the BBQ sauce when ready to use.