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BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Melts - A Sweet, Smoky, and Cheesy Comfort Classic

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great)
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup BBQ sauce (sweet and tangy or smoky—your choice)
  • 8 slices sourdough or sturdy sandwich bread
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar
  • 4 slices provolone or mozzarella
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (for extra-crispy bread)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the pan, if needed)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Start with 1/2 cup and add more if you like it saucier. Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
  2. In a small dish, mix the softened butter and mayonnaise. This blend gives a golden, crispy crust. Spread a thin layer on one side of each bread slice.
  3. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. If your pan tends to stick, add a drizzle of olive oil.
  4. Assemble each sandwich on a cutting board: buttered side down, add a slice of cheddar, a generous layer of BBQ chicken, a few slices of red onion and jalapeño (if using), and a slice of provolone. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
  5. Transfer sandwiches to the hot skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula. Aim for deeply golden bread and fully melted cheese. Reduce heat to medium-low if browning too quickly.
  6. Once done, move sandwiches to a cutting board. Let rest 1 minute so the cheese sets slightly, then slice in halves or quarters. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley if you like.
  7. Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce for dipping and a side of crisp pickles or a simple slaw.