There's something absolutely irresistible about the combination of melty cheese, tender chicken, and smoky barbecue sauce all sandwiched between two golden, buttery slices of bread. The moment this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese hits the skillet, the aroma alone is enough to gather the whole family into the kitchen.

I first whipped up this sandwich on a lazy Sunday, looking to breathe new life into some leftover chicken. Since then, it’s become one of our go-to comfort meals — quick to make, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Let’s dive right in!

Why You'll Love This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Get ready to fall head over heels for this gooey, flavor-packed sandwich. It's not just another grilled cheese — it's a mouthwatering twist that will have you craving more with every bite.

First, let’s talk about how quick and easy it is. From start to finish, you can have this meal on the table in under 20 minutes. Whether you're juggling work, school, or just don't feel like spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe has your back.

It’s budget-friendly too. With just a few simple ingredients — many of which you likely already have — you can create a restaurant-worthy sandwich at home without breaking the bank.

The versatility is another huge plus. You can easily swap in different cheeses, add veggies, or even spice it up with jalapeños for a bit of heat. Whether you're feeding picky kids or adventurous eaters, there's room to make it your own.

And let’s not forget about the pure comfort factor. That combination of crispy bread, melty cheese, and smoky BBQ chicken is the very definition of indulgence. It’s the perfect meal for cozy nights, casual gatherings, or even a quick lunch.

Now that your mouth is watering, let’s take a closer look at the simple ingredients that make this recipe shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient contributes to a rich tapestry of flavors and textures that come together effortlessly.

The star of the show is cooked chicken. This is a great opportunity to use up leftovers — whether it’s rotisserie chicken, grilled breast, or even shredded thighs. The key is to shred or chop it finely so it melds beautifully with the sauce and cheese.

Next up is the barbecue sauce. A good BBQ sauce provides that perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy notes. You can use your favorite store-bought brand or whip up a homemade version if you’re feeling ambitious. Personally, I love a sauce with a bit of smoky hickory undertone.

Of course, no grilled cheese is complete without cheese, and this recipe calls for a delicious blend. I recommend using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, combined with mozzarella for that ideal gooey stretch. The blend ensures each bite is both flavorful and satisfyingly melty.

The bread serves as the perfect vessel for all these delicious fillings. I prefer a sturdy, hearty white or sourdough loaf that can hold up to the filling without getting soggy. The slices should be thick enough to give a crispy exterior while keeping everything inside warm and melted.

Finally, a generous slather of butter on the outside of the bread ensures a perfectly golden, crisp crust. Softened butter spreads easily and helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown sear when grilled.

For equipment, you’ll need a good non-stick skillet or griddle, a spatula for flipping, and a bit of patience to let each side cook to golden perfection without rushing.

How To Make This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Bringing this sandwich to life is surprisingly simple, but following a few key steps ensures perfection every time.

Start by preparing your filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with your barbecue sauce, stirring until the chicken is evenly coated. You want the mixture moist but not overly saucy to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy.

Next, prepare your bread slices. Lay them out on a clean surface and spread a generous layer of softened butter on one side of each slice. The buttered sides will face outwards, providing that beautiful crispy crust once grilled.

Flip the slices over and start building your sandwich on the unbuttered sides. Begin with a layer of shredded cheese, followed by a spoonful of the BBQ chicken mixture, then top with more cheese. This double layer of cheese helps glue everything together as it melts.

Now it’s time to grill. Heat your skillet over medium-low heat — patience is key here. Place the assembled sandwiches into the pan, buttered side down. Allow them to cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes, until the bread is golden and crispy.

Carefully flip the sandwiches using a wide spatula, pressing down gently to ensure even contact with the pan. Continue grilling for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the second side to crisp up and the cheese to fully melt.

Once both sides are golden and the cheese is perfectly gooey, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before slicing. This brief rest helps the cheese settle slightly, making for cleaner slices and fewer spills.

In total, you’re looking at about 15-20 minutes from start to finish, making this an ideal option for quick lunches, easy dinners, or spontaneous cravings.

Storage Options

While best enjoyed fresh and hot off the skillet, leftovers can still be delicious with a bit of care.

If you happen to have leftover sandwiches, allow them to cool completely before storing. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Stored this way in the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the sandwiches. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

When it’s time to reheat, the best method is to warm them slowly in a skillet over medium-low heat. This helps restore the crispy exterior while ensuring the inside is heated through and the cheese melts again. You can also reheat them in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.

Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the bread soggy and the texture less appealing.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best parts of this recipe is how flexible it can be to suit your tastes or pantry staples.

For a spicier version, consider adding thinly sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ chicken mixture. The heat pairs wonderfully with the smoky sweetness of the barbecue sauce.

If you prefer a slightly lighter option, swap out the traditional white bread for whole wheat or multigrain. These heartier breads add a subtle nutty flavor and extra fiber without sacrificing crispiness.

Different cheeses can also take this sandwich in new directions. Try smoked gouda for an extra layer of smoky richness, or pepper jack for a bit of a kick. Mixing up the cheeses keeps things interesting and allows you to customize to your liking.

For a veggie-packed version, add some thinly sliced red onions, roasted red peppers, or even a handful of fresh spinach before grilling. These additions bring freshness and a touch of brightness to the rich, cheesy filling.

If you're short on cooked chicken, deli-sliced rotisserie chicken or even turkey can work in a pinch. The goal is tender, shredded meat that blends seamlessly with the sauce and cheese.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this sandwich truly your own. The possibilities are endless, and every variation brings its own delicious twist to the table.