Smoky BBQ Chicken Meltdown
A deliciously indulgent sandwich filled with tender shredded chicken, smoky BBQ flavor, caramelized onions, and creamy Havarti cheese, all grilled between crispy sourdough bread.
Ingredients
For the BBQ Chicken Filling
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for a rich base
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced bringing sweetness and texture
- 3 cloves garlic, minced for aromatic depth
- 2.5 cups shredded roast chicken the star ingredient, tender and flavorful
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika adding a hint of spice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce a savory enhancement
- 1 cup BBQ sauce providing the signature smoky flavor
For the Sandwiches
- 12 slices Havarti cheese creamy and melty
- 0.25 cup butter for richness and golden-brown toasting
- 2 cloves garlic, minced echoing the flavor profile
- 2 teaspoons parsley, minced adding freshness and color
- 12 slices sourdough bread or sturdy white bread the perfect bread for grilling
Instructions
BBQ Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced red onion and sauté until soft, about 2 minutes.
- Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Incorporate the shredded roast chicken, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce, stirring to combine.
- Let the mixture cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Garlic Butter Bread
- In a medium bowl, melt the butter, minced garlic, and parsley together in the microwave.
- Lay out 12 slices of sourdough bread on a work surface.
- Generously spread the melted butter mixture over each slice, then flip them over.
- On six of the bread slices, layer a slice of Havarti cheese, an even portion of the BBQ chicken mixture, and another slice of cheese on top.
- Place the remaining six slices on top, buttered side facing out.
Grilling
- Cook the sandwiches in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the bottoms for about 3-5 minutes.
- After flipping, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking until the second side is browned and the cheese is thoroughly melted, another 3-5 minutes.
Notes
Switch up the Cheese: Substitute Havarti with cheddar or pepper jack. Add Vegetables: Toss in leafy greens or grilled peppers for color and nutrition. Balance flavors with lemon juice or jalapeños. Use an outdoor grill or panini press for cooking.