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This BBQ chicken grilled cheese sandwich transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that will have your family requesting it again and again. The combination of tangy BBQ sauce, succulent shredded chicken, and gooey Havarti cheese creates a flavor explosion between crispy, garlicky bread that's impossible to resist.
I first made these sandwiches during a rainy weekend when my family was craving something special but I didn't want to spend hours in the kitchen. They've since become our go to option whenever we need a quick yet satisfying meal that feels like a treat.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: Creates the perfect base for sautéing your onions and garlic creating depth of flavor
- Small red onion: Adds a slight sweetness and beautiful color contrast to the BBQ chicken
- Garlic cloves: Provide essential aromatic flavor for both the filling and the buttered bread
- Shredded roasted chicken: Makes this recipe quick and versatile, use leftover rotisserie chicken for extra convenience
- Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that enhances the BBQ sauce
- Worcestershire sauce: Delivers that umami depth that makes the filling taste like it's been cooking for hours
- BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite variety, sweet, spicy, or smoky all work beautifully
- Havarti cheese: Melts perfectly with a buttery flavor that complements the tangy BBQ chicken
- Butter: Forms the foundation of the garlic spread that creates that irresistible crispy exterior
- Parsley: Brings a fresh herbal note that balances the richness of the sandwich
- Sourdough bread or sturdy white bread: Provides structure to hold all the delicious fillings while developing a perfect crisp crust
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the BBQ Chicken Mixture:
- Cook the sliced red onions in olive oil over medium heat until they become translucent and soft, typically about 2 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking just until fragrant, usually about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it as garlic can quickly turn bitter. Introduce the shredded chicken, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce, stirring everything thoroughly to ensure even coating. Continue cooking just until everything is heated through, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. The mixture should be warm with the flavors well combined but not overcooked.
- Create the Garlic Butter:
- Combine butter, garlic, and minced parsley in a medium bowl and microwave until completely melted. This aromatic mixture will become the key to achieving that restaurant-quality crispy exterior on your sandwiches. The butter carries the garlic and herb flavors directly into the bread as it toasts creating a complex flavor profile that elevates the entire sandwich.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Arrange all 12 bread slices on your work surface and spread the melted garlic butter mixture evenly across one side of each slice. This ensures consistent flavor throughout. Flip all pieces over so the buttered sides are facing down. Place one slice of Havarti cheese on six of the bread slices, creating the foundation layer. Distribute the BBQ chicken mixture evenly among these six slices, making sure to get a good balance of chicken, onions, and sauce in each sandwich. Add another slice of Havarti on top of the chicken mixture; this second layer of cheese helps bind everything together. Complete each sandwich by placing the remaining bread slices on top with the buttered sides facing outward.
- Cook to Perfection:
- Place the assembled sandwiches in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook until the bottoms develop a beautiful golden brown color, approximately 3 to 5 minutes. Using a spatula, carefully flip each sandwich, reduce the heat to medium-low, and continue cooking until the second side is equally browned and the cheese has melted completely, about another 3 to 5 minutes. The lower heat for the second side prevents burning while giving the cheese enough time to melt thoroughly.
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My absolute favorite thing about this recipe is how the Havarti cheese melts into every crevice of the BBQ chicken mixture creating pockets of creamy goodness. The first time I served these to my family the kitchen fell completely silent except for appreciative mumbles which any cook knows is the highest form of culinary praise.
Make Ahead Options
These sandwiches can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance before cooking. Simply prepare the BBQ chicken mixture and refrigerate it separately from the bread. When ready to serve, spread the garlic butter on your bread, add the cheese and chicken, then proceed with cooking. This makes them perfect for entertaining or meal prepping for busy weeknights.
Perfect Pairing Suggestions
These hearty sandwiches pair wonderfully with lighter sides to balance the meal. Consider serving with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil. For heartier appetites, a small bowl of tomato soup makes for the classic grilled cheese companion. During summer months, fresh corn on the cob or a simple coleslaw provides refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sandwich.
Customization Ideas
The versatility of this recipe allows for endless variations. Swap the Havarti for smoked gouda or pepper jack for different flavor profiles. For a spicier version, add sliced jalapeños to the chicken mixture or use a hot BBQ sauce. Vegetarians can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted sweet potatoes while maintaining all the delicious BBQ flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of bread is best for this sandwich?
Sourdough or any sturdy white bread works best, as they can hold the fillings well without getting soggy.
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, while Havarti is recommended for its creaminess, you can use cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese that melts well.
- → How can I make the chicken mixture spicier?
Add a dash of hot sauce or some chili flakes to the BBQ chicken mixture to give it an extra kick.
- → Can this sandwich be made ahead of time?
It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the chicken mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Assemble and toast the sandwiches just before serving.
- → What is a good side dish for this sandwich?
Serve it with a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or a bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal.