BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Macaroni Salad: the quintessential side dish that graces picnics, potlucks, and summer barbecues with its creamy, tangy, and utterly irresistible charm. But this isn’t just any pasta salad; it’s a nostalgic journey back to childhood, a comforting embrace in a bowl, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser wherever it goes. Have you ever wondered why this simple combination of pasta, vegetables, and mayonnaise has such an enduring appeal?

While its exact origins are debated, the concept of combining cooked pasta with various ingredients dates back centuries. However, the modern macaroni salad, as we know and love it, likely emerged in the United States in the late 19th or early 20th century, coinciding with the rise of commercially produced mayonnaise. It quickly became a staple in American cuisine, adapting and evolving with regional variations and family traditions.

What makes this dish so beloved? It’s the perfect balance of textures – the tender macaroni, the crisp vegetables, and the smooth, creamy dressing. The flavor profile is equally captivating, a delightful dance between tangy, sweet, and savory notes. Plus, let’s be honest, it’s incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you can whip up a batch of this classic salad in no time. So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets to creating the ultimate macaroni salad that will have everyone asking for seconds!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the BBQ Chicken:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 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 a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• 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: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
2. Cook the Chicken: You have a few options here. You can grill the chicken, bake it, or even cook it in a skillet.
   • Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
   • Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
   • Skillet: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Make sure to not overcrowd the pan, cook in batches if needed.
3. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
4. Add BBQ Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Make sure every strand of chicken is covered in that delicious BBQ goodness!

Assembling the Grilled Cheese

1. Prepare the Bread: Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will be the outside of your grilled cheese, giving it that golden-brown, crispy texture.
2. Layer the Cheese: Place four slices of bread, butter-side down, on a clean work surface. Top each slice with two slices of cheddar cheese (or your cheese blend). 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 on each slice of bread. Don’t be afraid to pile it high! This is the star of the show, after all.
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 that cuts through the richness of the cheese and BBQ sauce.
5. Top with More Cheese: Add another slice of cheese on top of the BBQ chicken and red onion. This will help hold everything together and create an extra gooey, cheesy experience.
6. Top with Bread: Place the remaining four slices of bread on top, butter-side up.

Cooking the Grilled Cheese

1. Heat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. This is important! You want the cheese to melt slowly and evenly without burning the bread.
2. Cook the Grilled Cheese: Place the sandwiches in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. You can gently press down on the sandwiches with a spatula to help them cook evenly.
3. Check for Doneness: The key to a perfect grilled cheese is patience. Don’t rush the process! Lift the edge of the sandwich with a spatula to check the color of the bread. It should be a beautiful golden brown. Also, gently press on the top of the sandwich. The cheese should be melted and oozing out.
4. Remove and Serve: Once the grilled cheese sandwiches are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Let them cool for a minute or two before slicing them in half. This will prevent the cheese from squirting out everywhere.
5. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a pop of freshness and color.
6. Serve Immediately: Serve your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwiches immediately while they are hot and gooey. They are best enjoyed fresh!

Tips for the Perfect BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the final product. Choose good quality bread, cheese, and BBQ sauce.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the grilled cheese sandwiches in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can lower the temperature of the pan and result in unevenly cooked sandwiches.
• Use Medium-Low Heat: Cooking the grilled cheese over medium-low heat allows the cheese to melt slowly and evenly without burning the bread.
• Press Gently: Gently press down on the sandwiches with a spatula to help them cook evenly.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, provolone, or even pepper jack would be delicious in this recipe.
• Add Some Heat: If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the BBQ chicken mixture or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
• Make it a Meal: Serve your BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwiches with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Variations

• BBQ Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese: Substitute the BBQ chicken with BBQ pulled pork for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
• BBQ Chicken and Bacon Grilled Cheese: Add crispy bacon to the grilled cheese for extra flavor and texture.
• BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Grilled Cheese: Add grilled pineapple to the grilled cheese for a sweet and tangy twist.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Leftover BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese sandwiches can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, you can bake the sandwiches in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally, until heated through. Be careful not to burn the bread. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the bread soggy.

Conclusion:

So 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 grilled cheese and elevates it with the tangy sweetness of barbecue chicken. It’s the perfect balance of cheesy goodness, smoky flavor, and satisfying textures, all in one easy-to-make package. Forget boring lunches or predictable dinners – this sandwich is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While I’ve shared my go-to method, feel free to experiment and make it your own. For a spicier kick, add a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. If you’re a fan of creamy textures, try incorporating a layer of coleslaw or a smear of avocado. And for those who prefer a lighter option, you can use whole wheat bread or even swap out the cheddar cheese for a lower-fat alternative.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Serve it with a side of crispy sweet potato fries for the ultimate comfort food experience.
* Pair it with a light salad to balance out the richness of the sandwich. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing works wonders.
* Cut it into smaller squares and serve as appetizers at your next gathering. Trust me, they’ll disappear in minutes!
* For a vegetarian twist, replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms marinated in barbecue sauce.
* Consider using different types of cheese! Pepper jack would add a nice bit of heat, while provolone would offer a milder, meltier option.
* Don’t be afraid to experiment with different barbecue sauces! Each sauce will bring its own unique flavor profile to the sandwich.

I’m confident that once you try this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese, it will become a regular in your meal rotation. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying – the perfect solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekend lunches. The combination of the gooey cheese, the tangy barbecue sauce, and the tender chicken is simply irresistible.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself! I truly believe you’ll love it as much as I do. And remember, cooking is all about having fun and experimenting, so don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on it.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. Once you’ve made your own BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Share your photos, your variations, and your thoughts in the comments below. Let me know what you loved, what you changed, and what you would do differently next time. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to create even better recipes in the future. Happy cooking, and enjoy!