Pin It This satisfying sandwich combines shredded chicken breast coated in your favorite BBQ sauce with a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella. Grilled between buttered sourdough slices until golden and crispy, each bite delivers smoky, savory, and cheesy flavors. Ready in just 20 minutes, these hearty sandwiches make an ideal lunch or casual dinner.
The smell of BBQ chicken hitting a hot skillet will always stop me in my tracks. My dad used to make these on Sunday afternoons during football season, and the entire house would smell like smoky, tangy comfort. I've been making them ever since, and they never fail to turn a regular Tuesday dinner into something that feels like a treat.
Last summer, my neighbor Sarah came over for lunch and literally moaned after her first bite. She said it tasted like a BBQ restaurant sandwich but better because the bread was perfectly golden. Now she texts me every time she makes them, usually with a photo of her messy kitchen counter and a happy plate.
Ingredients
- Shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here, or use leftovers from a roasted bird
- BBQ sauce: Choose whatever brand you love best—sweet, spicy, or smoky all work beautifully
- Cheddar and mozzarella blend: The cheddar brings sharp flavor while mozzarella creates that incredible cheese pull
- Sourdough bread: The tangy flavor and sturdy texture hold up beautifully to grilling
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter spreads evenly and helps achieve that golden, restaurant style crust
- Red onion and cilantro: These add fresh brightness that cuts through the rich cheese and smoky BBQ
Instructions
- Prepare the filling:
- Toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl until every piece is coated and saucy
- Mix your cheeses:
- Combine cheddar and mozzarella in a separate bowl so they are ready to sprinkle
- Butter your bread:
- Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice—this will be the outside that gets golden and crispy
- Build your sandwiches:
- Layer the BBQ chicken, cheese blend, and any optional toppings on butter side down slices, then top with remaining bread
- Get your skillet ready:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat until it is evenly hot but not smoking
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with your spatula, until bread is deep golden and cheese is melting out the edges
Pin It My kids started calling these happy sandwiches because they are the one meal everyone agrees on without negotiation. There is something about that first crispy, cheesy bite that just makes people smile.
Making Ahead
You can mix the chicken with BBQ sauce up to two days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The cheese blend can also be prepared in advance. Just assemble and grill when you are ready to eat.
Cheese Variations
Smoked gouda adds incredible depth, while pepper jack brings a nice kick for spice lovers. Monterey Jack melts beautifully and has a mild flavor that lets the BBQ sauce shine through.
Serving Ideas
A crisp pickle spear or a small side of coleslaw cuts through the richness perfectly. For a lighter meal, serve with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette.
- Try these for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special
- Pack them for lunch but reheat in a toaster oven to maintain crunch
- Keep extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping
Pin It These sandwiches have become my go to for comfort food cravings, and I hope they find a permanent spot in your recipe rotation too.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best?
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Sourdough or country-style bread holds up well to grilling and provides a sturdy base for the hearty filling. The slight tang of sourdough complements the sweet BBQ sauce beautifully.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
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Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds extra flavor. Simply shred about 2 cups of meat and mix with your preferred BBQ sauce.
- → How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
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Butter the bread generously and cook over medium heat to ensure the exterior crisps up before the filling overheats. Don't overcrowd the skillet, which lowers the temperature.
- → What cheese combinations work well?
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The cheddar-mozzarella blend offers sharp flavor plus excellent melt. Try smoked gouda for depth, Monterey Jack for creaminess, or pepper jack for extra heat.
- → Can I make these ahead?
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Assemble sandwiches up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature 15 minutes before grilling for even cooking. Best enjoyed warm and freshly cooked.
