BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad: Just the name conjures up images of sun-drenched beaches, luaus overflowing with delicious food, and the spirit of Aloha. But what if I told you that this creamy, dreamy salad, so ubiquitous in Hawaiian plate lunches, has a surprisingly fascinating history and isn’t quite as “Hawaiian” as you might think?

While macaroni salad might seem like a simple side dish, it’s become a cornerstone of Hawaiian cuisine, a testament to the islands’ unique blend of cultures. Brought over by plantation workers, particularly from the Philippines and Japan, macaroni salad evolved over time, adapting to local tastes and ingredients. The result? A uniquely Hawaiian creation that’s far more than just pasta and mayonnaise.

What makes Hawaiian Macaroni Salad so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures – the tender macaroni, the creamy dressing, and often, a delightful crunch from vegetables like celery or carrots. The slightly sweet and tangy flavor profile is incredibly addictive, making it the ideal accompaniment to grilled meats, kalua pig, or any other Hawaiian favorite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a simple weeknight meal. So, are you ready to bring a taste of the islands to your kitchen? Let’s dive in and create this iconic dish together!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the BBQ Chicken:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand!)
• For the Grilled Cheese:
• 8 slices of your favorite bread (I love using sourdough or Texas toast)
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 8 slices cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese – Monterey Jack or pepper jack are great too!)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional, but adds a nice bite)
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Preparing the BBQ Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: First, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if your skillet is small, cook the chicken breasts in batches.
3. Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender chicken. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can use your hands (once the chicken is cool enough to handle) or even a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for quick shredding.
4. Add BBQ Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated in the sauce. Set aside while you prepare the grilled cheese. You can adjust the amount of BBQ sauce to your liking – if you prefer a saucier chicken, add a bit more!

Assembling the Grilled Cheese:

1. Prepare the Bread: Lay out the bread slices on a clean work surface. Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice. This buttered side will be the outside of your grilled cheese, giving it that golden-brown, crispy texture.
2. Layer the Cheese: Place two slices of cheddar cheese (or your cheese of choice) on the unbuttered side of four bread slices. Make sure the cheese covers the entire surface of the bread to prevent any dry spots.
3. Add the BBQ Chicken: Spoon a generous amount of the BBQ chicken mixture onto the cheese-covered bread slices. Spread it evenly, leaving a little space around the edges to prevent it from spilling out during cooking. Don’t overload the sandwich, or it will be difficult to flip and cook evenly.
4. Add Red Onion (Optional): If you’re using red onion, sprinkle a few slices over the BBQ chicken. The red onion adds a nice sharpness and crunch that complements the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
5. Top with More Cheese: Add another two slices of cheese on top of the BBQ chicken and red onion. This extra layer of cheese will help hold everything together and create a gooey, melty center.
6. Top with Bread: Place the remaining bread slices on top of the cheese, buttered side up. Gently press down on the sandwiches to compress them slightly.

Cooking the Grilled Cheese:

1. Heat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. You want the skillet to be hot enough to melt the cheese and toast the bread, but not so hot that it burns the bread before the cheese melts.
2. Cook the Sandwiches: Carefully place the assembled grilled cheese sandwiches in the hot skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the sandwiches in batches if necessary.
3. Grill One Side: Cook for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Use a spatula to gently press down on the sandwiches while they cook to ensure even browning and melting. Keep a close eye on the sandwiches to prevent burning.
4. Flip and Grill the Other Side: Once the first side is golden brown, carefully flip the sandwiches using a spatula. Continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes, or until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted.
5. Check for Doneness: To check if the grilled cheese is done, gently press down on the center of the sandwich. If the cheese oozes out easily and the bread is golden brown, it’s ready. If the cheese isn’t fully melted, continue cooking for a minute or two longer per side.
6. Remove and Serve: Remove the cooked grilled cheese sandwiches from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Let them cool for a minute or two before slicing.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to slice the grilled cheese sandwiches in half diagonally. This makes them easier to handle and eat.
2. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the grilled cheese sandwiches for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the BBQ chicken grilled cheese sandwiches immediately while they are hot and the cheese is melty.
4. Pairing Suggestions: These grilled cheese sandwiches are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with:
   • Tomato soup
   • Coleslaw
   • Potato salad
   • Pickles
   • A simple green salad
5. Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. Here are a few ideas:
   • Add Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor that complements the BBQ chicken perfectly.
   • Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or provolone.
   • Add Jalapeños: For a spicy kick, add some sliced jalapeños to the sandwich.
   • Use Different Bread: Try using different types of bread, such as brioche, rye, or ciabatta.
   • Make it a Melt: Add sliced tomatoes and avocado for a California-style melt.

Tips for the Perfect BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the final product will be. Choose good quality bread, cheese, and BBQ sauce.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the sandwiches in batches ensures that they cook evenly and get a nice golden-brown crust.
• Use Softened Butter: Softened butter spreads more easily and evenly on the bread, resulting in a more consistent browning.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Adjust the BBQ Sauce to Your Liking: Some BBQ sauces are sweeter than others. Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce to your preference.
• Press Down on the Sandwiches: Gently pressing down on the sandwiches while they cook helps to ensure even browning and melting.
• Serve Immediately: Grilled cheese sandwiches are best served immediately while they are hot and the cheese is melty.

Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese isn’t just another sandwich; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it takes the comforting familiarity of a grilled cheese and elevates it to a whole new level with the tangy sweetness of barbecue chicken. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy even the biggest cravings. Forget boring lunches or predictable dinners – this sandwich is a game-changer.

But why is it so special? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The crispy, golden-brown bread gives way to gooey, melted cheese, followed by the savory, slightly smoky, and sweet BBQ chicken. It’s a symphony of flavors that will have you coming back for more. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile!

Looking for serving suggestions? I love pairing this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese with a side of creamy coleslaw to cut through the richness. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also works wonders. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside some crispy sweet potato fries or a bowl of tomato soup. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try dipping it in a little extra BBQ sauce – trust me, you won’t regret it!

Now, let’s talk variations! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Sharp cheddar adds a nice bite, while Monterey Jack offers a milder, creamier flavor. Pepper jack will give it a spicy kick! You can also swap out the BBQ sauce for your favorite flavor – honey BBQ, spicy BBQ, or even a tangy Carolina-style sauce would all be delicious.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with the chicken too. Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a super-easy weeknight meal, or grill your own chicken breasts and shred them for a more homemade touch. You could even add some crispy bacon or caramelized onions for extra flavor and texture. For a vegetarian option, try using grilled halloumi cheese or marinated tofu in place of the chicken. The possibilities are endless!

This BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is truly a customizable masterpiece.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe, and I can’t wait to hear what you think! I encourage you to give it a try and let me know how it turns out. Did you make any modifications? What were your favorite toppings? What did you serve it with? Share your photos and stories in the comments below – I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration.

Seriously, you need this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese in your life! It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly day, a quick and easy lunch option, or a fun and flavorful dinner that the whole family will enjoy. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to experience the ultimate grilled cheese sandwich. Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave a comment below! Your feedback helps me create even more delicious recipes for you to enjoy. And be sure to share this recipe with your friends and family – they’ll thank you for it!