Irresistible Smoky BBQ Chicken Melt Sandwich Recipe for All

Succulent chicken meets its ultimate match in this smoky bbq chicken melt sandwich that promises pure comfort.

Layers of tender, juicy meat burst with rich, tangy flavors.

Melted cheese cascades over perfectly seasoned chicken, creating a harmony of textures and tastes.

Every bite delivers a delightful blend of smokiness and warmth.

The sandwich combines classic grilling techniques with mouthwatering ingredients.

Melted cheese and barbecue sauce create an irresistible combination that elevates this simple sandwich to a gourmet experience.

How to Build a Smoky BBQ Chicken Melt Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare Savory BBQ Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Sauté onions until they become soft and translucent.

Add minced garlic and cook until its aroma fills the kitchen.

• Shredded chicken
• Paprika
• Worcestershire sauce
• BBQ sauce

Stir everything together and cook until the mixture is thoroughly heated and flavors meld beautifully.

Step 2: Create Garlic Butter Bread Base

• Butter
• Minced garlic
• Chopped parsley

Melt the mixture in the microwave.

Arrange bread slices on a clean surface.

Generously brush the melted garlic butter across each slice.

Flip the bread over.

Step 3: Assemble Sandwich Layers

• Cheese slice
• BBQ chicken mixture
• Another cheese slice

Top with remaining bread slices, ensuring the buttered side faces outward.

Step 4: Grill to Golden Perfection

Place sandwiches in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.

Cook until the bottom turns a beautiful golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.

Carefully flip and continue cooking on medium-low heat until the second side browns and cheese melts completely, approximately 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove sandwiches from the skillet, slice diagonally, and serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Pro Tips for Cheesy BBQ Melt Sandwiches

• Marinate chicken in BBQ sauce overnight for deeper, more intense taste that penetrates every bite.
• Use room temperature cheese to ensure smooth, even melting without burning the bread's exterior.
• Press sandwiches gently with a spatula while cooking to create a crispy, golden-brown crust that adds delightful crunch.
• Adjust BBQ sauce brand or mix mild and spicy sauces to customize heat according to personal preference.
• Store BBQ chicken mixture separately in the refrigerator for quick sandwich assembly within 3-4 days, maintaining maximum freshness.

Sandwich Variations for BBQ Chicken Melts

• Spicy Southwest Chicken Melt: Replace BBQ sauce with salsa and add diced green chilies to the chicken mixture. Swap regular cheese for pepper jack for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Jackfruit Melt: Substitute shredded chicken with pulled jackfruit seasoned with BBQ spices. Use plant-based cheese for a meat-free version.
• Mediterranean Chicken Melt: Use za'atar seasoning instead of paprika, add crumbled feta cheese, and mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes with the chicken.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread and ensure BBQ sauce is certified gluten-free. Replace Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Smoky BBQ Chicken Melts

• Picnic Paradise: Pack these sandwiches in a cooler with cold packs for a delightful outdoor meal that's easy to transport and enjoy.
• Sidekick Sensations: Serve alongside crispy potato chips, tangy coleslaw, or a fresh green salad to complement the rich, smoky flavors of the sandwich.
• Dinner Date Upgrade: Slice the sandwich diagonally and plate with a small garnish of fresh parsley or a light drizzle of extra BBQ sauce for an elevated presentation that looks restaurant-worthy.
• Game Night Crowd-Pleaser: Cut into smaller quarters for bite-sized portions perfect for sharing during sports events or casual gatherings with friends.

Storing BBQ Chicken Melt Sandwiches

• Store leftover BBQ chicken melt sandwiches in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
• Carefully wrap each sandwich tightly in aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Separate sandwiches with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove wrapping and place sandwiches on a baking sheet. Warm for 10-12 minutes until cheese melts and sandwich is heated through. Cover with foil to prevent burning.
• Place sandwich on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 30-45 seconds, checking halfway to ensure even warming.

FAQs

• What makes the BBQ chicken flavorful?

The combination of paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce creates a rich, smoky flavor profile that enhances the shredded chicken’s taste.

• Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests standard cheese slices, you can experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone to add your personal twist to the melt.

• How do I prevent the bread from burning?

Cook the sandwiches on medium heat and use a non-stick skillet. Adjust the heat to medium-low after initial browning to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the BBQ chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and grill the sandwiches when ready to eat for a quick, delicious meal.

What Makes Smoky BBQ Chicken Melt Sandwiches So Delicious

• Blast Flavor Combinations: Packed with smoky BBQ chicken, melted cheese, and garlic butter, this sandwich delivers an explosion of mouthwatering tastes that will make taste buds dance.
• Quick Weeknight Warrior: Perfect for busy families, this recipe comes together in minimal steps, requiring basic ingredients and simple cooking techniques that even novice cooks can master.
• Customize Your Comfort: Easily swap chicken with pulled pork or shredded beef, adjust spice levels, or add extra toppings like crispy bacon or pickled jalapeños to make this sandwich uniquely yours.
• Crowd-Pleasing Performance: Guaranteed to impress at casual gatherings, game day parties, or lazy weekend lunches, this sandwich transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that everyone will love.

BBQ Chicken Melt Sandwich Ingredient List

• Chicken: Shredded chicken provides the hearty protein foundation for this sandwich.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth and enhances the savory flavor of the chicken.

• Cheese Slices: Melts beautifully to create a creamy, gooey texture in the sandwich.
• Butter: Creates a rich, golden-brown crust on the bread.
• Garlic: Infuses the butter with a robust, aromatic flavor.
• Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the garlic butter.

• Bread Slices: Serves as the crispy exterior for the sandwich.
• Paprika: Provides a smoky, slightly spicy undertone to the chicken.
• BBQ Sauce: Delivers a tangy, sweet flavor that defines the sandwich's character.
• Onions: Offers a subtle sweetness and depth to the chicken mixture.
• Oil: Helps sauté the onions and prevent sticking to the pan.

Smoky BBQ Chicken Melt Sandwich Recipe

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4.8 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Savor the irresistible smoky bbq chicken melt sandwich, a culinary masterpiece blending tender chicken, melted cheese, and tangy barbecue sauce. Indulgent layers promise a flavor explosion that will transport taste buds to grilling paradise.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 2 1/2 cups shredded roast chicken
• 12 slices havarti cheese

Bread and Base:

• 12 slices sourdough bread or sturdy white bread
• 1/4 cup butter

Seasonings and Sauces:

• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons parsley (minced)

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Instructions

1. Sauté diced onions in a skillet over medium heat until translucent, approximately 2 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until aromatic, about 30 seconds.
2. Incorporate shredded chicken into the skillet, blending with paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce. Stir thoroughly and heat until warm, roughly 2-3 minutes.
3. Combine melted butter with chopped parsley and minced garlic in a small bowl, creating a fragrant spread.
4. Arrange bread slices on a clean work surface and generously brush with the herb-infused butter mixture.
5. Flip bread slices and layer each with a slice of cheese, followed by an even distribution of the smoky BBQ chicken mixture.
6. Top each sandwich with another cheese slice and complete with the remaining buttered bread.
7. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium temperature and carefully place sandwiches inside.
8. Grill for 3-4 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy.
9. Gently flip sandwiches and reduce heat to medium-low, cooking an additional 3-4 minutes until cheese melts completely and second side achieves a rich, toasted color.
10. Remove from skillet, let rest briefly, then slice diagonally before serving.

Notes

• Shred chicken easily by using two forks to pull apart warm, cooked chicken breasts or use rotisserie chicken for a faster preparation.
• Customize BBQ sauce intensity by mixing different brands or adding hot sauce for extra kick, letting you control the spice level to suit personal preferences.
• Toast bread beforehand to enhance sandwich crispiness and prevent sogginess, creating a more textural and satisfying eating experience.
• Make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free bread and checking that BBQ sauce contains no wheat-based ingredients, allowing those with dietary restrictions to enjoy the meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 565 kcal
• Sugar: 9 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Fat: 36 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 33 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg