BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

Alyssa

Savor the perfect blend of tangy BBQ chicken, gooey melted cheese, and crispy toasted bread in this irresistible grilled cheese recipe.

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2 tbsp olive oil: This will be used to sauté the onions adding moisture and flavor to the BBQ chicken filling.
1 small red onion thinly sliced: The sweetness of red onion caramelizes beautifully and adds depth to the dish.
3 cloves garlic minced: Garlic enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic qualities, especially when sautéed.
2 ½ cups shredded roasted chicken: The star ingredient! You can use leftover roasted chicken which makes this recipe incredibly convenient.
½ tsp paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a bit of warmth to the BBQ chicken.
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: A splash brings umami depth to the dish amplifying the BBQ flavor.
1 cup BBQ sauce: The key player that ties the flavors together providing sweetness and tang.
12 slices Havarti cheese: This creamy cheese melts beautifully adding richness and creaminess to the sandwich.

For the garlic buttered bread:

¼ cup butter: Essential for achieving that crispy golden exterior.
2 cloves garlic minced: When mixed with butter, it creates a fragrant spread for the bread.
2 tsp parsley minced: Fresh parsley adds a bright flavor and a pop of color.
12 slices sourdough or sturdy white bread: A great foundation for the sandwich bread that can hold up to delicious fillings.

Prepare the BBQ Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 small red onion (thinly sliced) and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Stir in 2 ½ cups of shredded roasted chicken, ½ tsp paprika, and 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce. Mix well and then pour in 1 cup of BBQ sauce. Stir everything together and let it cook through on low heat for about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of butter, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 2 tsp of minced parsley. Microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until melted. Mix well to combine.
Prepare the Bread: Spread the garlic butter mixture generously on one side of each 12 slices of sourdough or sturdy white bread. On the unbuttered side, layer a generous amount of the BBQ chicken mixture, followed by 2 slices of Havarti cheese. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side out.
Cook the Sandwiches: In a skillet over medium heat, place the sandwiches and cook until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Carefully flip them over, reduce the heat to low, and continue cooking until the cheese has melted, around 5-7 more minutes. Use a spatula to press down slightly on the sandwiches, ensuring even cooking. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your skillet.