Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that adds flavor and saves time. Just shred it before mixing with the barbecue sauce.

What’s the best cheese to use besides Havarti?

While Havarti melts beautifully and adds creaminess, you can also use mozzarella, provolone, or sharp cheddar depending on your flavor preference.

How do I know when the sandwich is done cooking?

Check for a golden-brown crust on the bread and ensure the cheese is fully melted. You can press lightly on the sandwich—if it feels hot all the way through and the cheese oozes slightly, it’s ready.

Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken mixture and garlic butter ahead, but it’s best to assemble and cook the sandwiches fresh to keep the bread crispy.

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Name: BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 ½ cups shredded roasted chicken; ½ teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 12 slices Havarti cheese; ¼ cup butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons parsley, minced; 12 slices sourdough bread (or sturdy white bread)

Description

This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a quick, comforting sandwich made with garlicky toasted bread, tender barbecue chicken, and melty Havarti cheese—perfect for busy nights or casual weekend meals.

Ingredients

Scale

For the BBQ Chicken:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 ½ cups shredded roasted chicken
½ teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup BBQ sauce
12 slices Havarti cheese

For the Garlic Butter Bread:

¼ cup butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons parsley, minced
12 slices sourdough bread (or sturdy white bread)

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Instructions

Make the Garlic Butter: Melt the butter in a small microwave-safe bowl, then stir in the minced garlic and parsley. Let it sit while you prepare the chicken so the flavors can infuse.
Soften the Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the thinly sliced red onions until they become soft and slightly translucent, about 2–3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Cook the Chicken Filling: To the skillet, add shredded chicken, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce. Stir everything together and cook until heated through and well combined, about another 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Lay all 12 slices of bread flat on your counter or work surface. Spread the garlic butter mixture on one side of each slice. Flip the slices over so the buttered side is down. On half the slices, place a slice of cheese, a generous amount of the BBQ chicken mixture, and another slice of cheese. Top each sandwich with a remaining slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
Toast the Sandwiches: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet (working in batches if needed). Cook until the bottom side is golden and crisp, about 3–5 minutes. Flip, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook the second side for another 3–5 minutes until golden and the cheese is fully melted.

Notes

To save time, prepare the garlic butter and chicken filling ahead and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Use a sandwich press or grill pan for even crispiness. Add a handful of arugula or spinach inside the sandwich before cooking for a peppery green boost. If using pre-shredded cheese, be aware it may not melt as smoothly as freshly sliced cheese.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop (Skillet)
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 692
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 1240mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 19g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 105mg