Savory BBQ Chicken Sandwich

This BBQ chicken grilled cheese sandwich transforms ordinary lunch into something extraordinary. The combination of tangy BBQ sauce, succulent shredded chicken, and creamy Havarti cheese between slices of garlicky butter-toasted bread creates an irresistible comfort food experience that delivers on both flavor and satisfaction.

I first made these sandwiches on a rainy Saturday afternoon when my family was craving something special but I didn't want to spend hours in the kitchen. The combination was such a hit that it's now in our regular rotation whenever we have leftover roasted chicken.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: provides the perfect base for sautéing without overpowering other flavors
• Red onion: adds a slight sweetness and beautiful color contrast
• Fresh garlic cloves: bring essential aromatic flavor to both the chicken mixture and butter spread
• Shredded roasted chicken: works perfectly whether freshly made or leftover
• Paprika: adds a subtle smoky note that complements the BBQ sauce
• Worcestershire sauce: brings depth and umami to the chicken filling
• BBQ sauce: ties everything together with its sweet tangy profile
• Havarti cheese: creates the perfect melt with a buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with BBQ
• Butter: forms the base of the garlic spread that creates the crispy golden exterior
• Fresh parsley: brightens the garlic butter with color and fresh flavor
• Sourdough bread: stands up well to the fillings while crisping beautifully when toasted

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the BBQ Chicken Mixture:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers slightly. Add thinly sliced red onions and cook until they become translucent and begin to soften which takes about 2 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant being careful not to burn it as this happens quickly in about 30 seconds. Immediately add your shredded chicken along with paprika Worcestershire and BBQ sauce. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure even coating of the sauce and spices. Let the mixture heat through completely for about 2 to 3 minutes which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Create the Garlic Butter Spread:

Combine butter minced garlic and fresh parsley in a medium microwave safe bowl. Heat in microwave in short intervals until completely melted and fragrant. The butter should be liquid but not bubbling hot. This aromatic mixture will be the key to creating that perfect golden crust on your sandwich.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Lay out all 12 bread slices on your work surface and spread each one with the melted garlic butter mixture ensuring complete coverage to the edges. This will create that beautiful golden crust when cooking. Flip 6 of the bread slices over so the buttered side is down. Place one slice of Havarti cheese on each of these 6 pieces. Distribute the BBQ chicken mixture evenly among these 6 bread slices being careful not to overfill. Add another slice of Havarti on top of the chicken mixture. The cheese on both sides helps seal in the chicken filling. Top with remaining bread slices ensuring the buttered sides are facing outward.

Cook to Golden Perfection:

Place assembled sandwiches in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook until the bottom bread achieves a beautiful golden brown color typically taking 3 to 5 minutes. Use a spatula to carefully flip each sandwich over reducing heat to medium low to prevent burning while allowing enough time for the cheese to fully melt. Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes until the second side is equally golden and the cheese has completely melted creating that irresistible gooey texture.

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The Havarti cheese is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. Unlike cheddar or American I find Havarti melts into the most luxurious creamy texture while complementing the tangy BBQ sauce perfectly. My family actually fought over the last sandwich the first time I made these which convinced me this recipe was a definite keeper.

Make Ahead Options

You can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture up to three days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes weeknight assembly incredibly quick just requiring you to build and grill the sandwiches. The mixture also freezes beautifully for up to three months just thaw completely before using. For busy nights you can even assemble the sandwiches completely and wrap them individually in plastic wrap for same day cooking.

Clever Substitutions

If Havarti isn't available gouda makes an excellent substitute with its similar melting properties and slightly smoky flavor. Provolone or monterey jack would also work well in this recipe. For the bread consider using brioche for a sweeter profile or ciabatta for a more rustic texture. The BBQ sauce can be switched for different varieties depending on your preference. Try a spicy chipotle BBQ sauce for heat lovers or a honey BBQ for those who enjoy sweeter profiles.

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Serving Suggestions

These hearty sandwiches pair beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a more substantial meal serve alongside crispy sweet potato fries or homemade pickle spears. During summer months fresh watermelon slices provide a refreshing contrast to the savory sandwich. For entertaining consider cutting the sandwiches into quarters and serving as appetizers with small cups of tomato soup for dipping.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover sandwiches can be stored in the refrigerator wrapped tightly in aluminum foil for up to two days. To reheat place in a dry skillet over medium low heat for about 3 minutes per side until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as this will make the bread soggy. For best results separate any leftover assembled but uncooked sandwiches with parchment paper before storing to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ What type of bread works best for this sandwich?

Sourdough or sturdy white bread works best as they hold up well to the filling without getting soggy. The firmer texture also creates the perfect crispy exterior when buttered and grilled.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

While Havarti offers a perfect creamy melt, you can substitute with other melting cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gouda. For extra flavor, try a smoked variety or a combination of cheeses.

→ How can I prepare the shredded chicken?

You can use leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken from the store, or quickly poach chicken breasts and shred them. For extra flavor, try smoked or grilled chicken.

→ What sides pair well with this sandwich?

This hearty sandwich pairs beautifully with lighter sides like a fresh green salad, coleslaw, potato chips, or a cup of tomato soup for dipping. For a heartier meal, serve with sweet potato fries or onion rings.

→ Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

The BBQ chicken mixture can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated. However, for best results, assemble and grill the sandwiches just before serving to maintain the crispy exterior and melty interior.

→ How do I prevent my sandwich from getting soggy?

Make sure your BBQ chicken mixture isn't too watery. If needed, simmer it a bit longer to reduce excess liquid. Also, buttering the outside of the bread creates a barrier that helps prevent sogginess while creating a crispy exterior.