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This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwich takes comfort food to a whole new level with its perfect combination of tangy BBQ chicken and gooey Havarti cheese, all nestled between slices of garlicky buttered sourdough bread. The savory filling paired with crispy, golden bread creates an irresistible meal that satisfies those comfort food cravings while still feeling special enough for dinner.
I first created this sandwich during a busy weeknight when I needed something quick but satisfying for my family. The combination was such a hit that it's now requested at least twice a month. My teenagers even bring friends over specifically when they know these sandwiches are on the menu.
Ingredients
- Shredded roasted chicken: provides a tender protein base while saving time; use rotisserie chicken from the grocery store for maximum convenience
- Red onion: adds a slight sweetness and beautiful color contrast
- Garlic: infuses the chicken mixture and butter with aromatic flavor
- BBQ sauce: choose your favorite brand with the sweetness and tanginess you prefer
- Havarti cheese: melts beautifully with a buttery flavor that complements the BBQ perfectly
- Sourdough bread: holds up well to the filling and provides the perfect tang
- Butter: creates that irresistible golden crust
- Worcestershire sauce: adds a depth of umami flavor
- Smoked paprika: brings a subtle smokiness that enhances the BBQ flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add thinly sliced red onions and cook until they become translucent and begin to soften, about 2 minutes. Add minced garlic to the onions and cook just until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it, as it will become bitter. Add shredded chicken, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce to the skillet. Stir everything thoroughly to combine and ensure the chicken is evenly coated with sauce. Continue cooking until the mixture is heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Create the Garlic Butter:
- Combine butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave until completely melted, approximately 30 seconds. Stir well to ensure the garlic and parsley are evenly distributed throughout the butter. This flavored butter will create an incredible aroma and golden crust on your bread.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Lay out all 12 bread slices on your work surface. Using a pastry brush or spoon, spread the garlic butter mixture generously over one side of each bread slice. Flip 6 of the bread slices over so the unbuttered side faces up. Place a slice of Havarti cheese on each of these 6 bread slices. Divide the BBQ chicken mixture evenly among these 6 slices, spreading it carefully to the edges. Add another slice of Havarti on top of the chicken mixture. Complete each sandwich by placing the remaining 6 bread slices on top, with the buttered side facing outward.
- Cook to Golden Perfection:
- Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place 2-3 sandwiches in the skillet, buttered side down. Cook until the bottom is beautifully golden brown, approximately 3-5 minutes. Press down gently with a spatula occasionally to ensure even contact with the pan. Carefully flip each sandwich and reduce heat to medium-low. Continue cooking until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted, about 3-5 minutes more. Transfer to a cutting board and repeat with remaining sandwiches.
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The Havarti cheese is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I discovered it works magic in grilled cheese when my local deli was out of my usual cheddar. Its creamy texture creates the most satisfying cheese pull when you take that first bite, and the mild flavor allows the BBQ chicken to shine while still providing that essential melty goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
These BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwiches can be partially prepped ahead of time to make dinner even quicker. Prepare the BBQ chicken mixture up to two 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 kept refrigerated; just bring it to room temperature before spreading.
Fully assembled but uncooked sandwiches can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 8 hours before cooking. This makes them perfect for packing for lunches or picnics; just cook them right before eating.
Perfect Pairings
While these sandwiches are hearty enough to serve as a complete meal, they pair beautifully with lighter sides that balance their richness. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the savory sandwich. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside sweet potato fries or a cup of tomato soup for dipping.
For beverages, consider a cold craft beer, lemonade, or iced tea to complement the BBQ flavors. The tanginess of these drinks helps cut through the richness of the cheese and butter.
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Customizing Your Sandwich
The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is to different tastes and dietary needs. For a spicier version, add sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. Swap the Havarti for pepper jack cheese for additional heat. For a sweeter profile, use a honey BBQ sauce and add caramelized onions instead of simply sautéed ones.
For a healthier version, use whole grain bread and reduce the butter by half. You can also add sliced tomatoes or avocado for additional nutrition and flavor. The recipe works with turkey or pork as well if you prefer an alternative to chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of Havarti?
Yes, you can substitute Havarti with cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or a sharp cheddar for different flavor profiles.
- → What type of bread works best for this sandwich?
Sourdough or sturdy white bread is ideal as they hold up well during grilling and provide a great texture.
- → Can I prepare the BBQ chicken mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the chicken mixture in advance, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it before assembling the sandwiches.
- → How do I achieve perfectly golden bread?
Ensure your skillet is heated to medium and avoid rushing. Cook the sandwich slowly to allow the bread to brown evenly while the cheese melts.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the chicken with BBQ jackfruit or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative.