If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food mashup, look no further than this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese. This sandwich takes the ooey-gooey goodness of a grilled cheese and levels it up with smoky barbecue chicken, melty cheese, and crispy, buttery bread. It’s a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner that hits all the right notes—savory, sweet, creamy, and crunchy. Perfect for weeknights, leftovers, or game day eats, this BBQ chicken grilled cheese sandwich is a delicious twist on two classic favorites.

What Makes This Sandwich Special?
This isn’t your average grilled cheese. The combo of tender shredded chicken tossed in smoky barbecue sauce, paired with melty cheese and crispy grilled bread, creates a flavor-packed experience in every bite. It’s customizable, quick to make, and endlessly comforting. Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or freshly grilled, it always comes out delicious.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2 sandwiches
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
- ⅓ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough, Texas toast, or your favorite)
- 1 tbsp butter (softened)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, pepper jack, or a mix)
- Optional: sliced red onion, jalapeños, or pickles for extra flavor
Instructions
1. Mix the Chicken and BBQ Sauce
In a bowl, toss the cooked chicken with the barbecue sauce until evenly coated. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches
Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer half the shredded cheese, followed by the BBQ chicken, and then the remaining cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
3. Grill the Sandwiches
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
4. Slice and Serve
Remove from the skillet, let rest for a minute, then slice in half and serve hot. Pair with chips, coleslaw, or a side salad.

Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or use spicy BBQ sauce.
- Extra Cheese: Mix in a second cheese like Monterey Jack or smoked gouda for added depth.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Add a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the chicken and a handful of crushed tortilla chips inside the sandwich.
- Hawaiian Style: Add pineapple slices for a sweet contrast.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information (Per Sandwich – Approx.)
- Calories: 480
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 25g
- Sugar: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers wrapped in foil or in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to keep the bread crispy—avoid the microwave if possible.
My Cooking Experience
This sandwich is a go-to in my kitchen, especially when I have leftover chicken on hand. It’s one of those meals that feels like a treat but only takes minutes to throw together. I love using sharp cheddar for the bold flavor and adding a few pickled jalapeños for a little heat. It never fails to satisfy and makes the perfect cozy meal.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a smoky twist. It’s quick, customizable, and bursting with cheesy, BBQ flavor. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the family, this sandwich brings the best of both worlds together in one golden, melty bite.

bbq chicken grilled cheese
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, toss the cooked chicken with the barbecue sauce until evenly coated. Set aside.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer half the shredded cheese, followed by the BBQ chicken, and then the remaining cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the skillet, let rest for a minute, then slice in half and serve hot. Pair with chips, coleslaw, or a side salad.
Notes
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers wrapped in foil or in an airtight container for up to 2 days.