Grilled Chicken Cheese Sandwich Recipe

This crispy gooey Grilled Chicken Cheese Sandwich is made with shredded cooked chicken and sharp cheddar cheese, ready in just 20 minutes. Cutting into the golden toasted crust reveals hot, stretching cheese melting perfectly over the warm meat inside. I make this constantly whenever I have leftover roast chicken sitting in the fridge.

Why This Classic Works

I used to struggle with getting the cheese fully melted before the bread burned in the pan. The trick I learned is using a mix of shredded cheese instead of thick slices, which melts twice as fast under heat.

Covering the pan for just a minute during cooking traps the heat to warm the chicken completely through. It creates the perfect balance of a crunchy exterior and a hot, gooey center without any cold spots.

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Grilled Chicken Cheese Sandwich Ingredients

• 4 slices thick sourdough bread
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

How To Make Grilled Chicken Cheese Sandwich

1. Mix the filling: In a small bowl, toss the shredded chicken with mayonnaise and garlic powder until evenly coated.
2. Butter the bread: Spread the softened butter evenly over one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
3. Build the sandwich: Place two bread slices butter-side down on a board. Layer with half the cheddar, the chicken mixture, mozzarella, and the remaining cheddar, then top with the remaining bread, butter-side up.
4. Grill the first side: Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sandwiches and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the bottom is a deep golden brown.
5. Flip and melt: Carefully flip the sandwiches, cover the skillet with a lid, and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and the bread is crispy.

Recipe Tips

• Use room temperature butter: Softened butter spreads easily without tearing the bread and ensures an even golden crust.
• Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly inside the sandwich.
• Keep the heat medium-low: Cooking too fast will burn the outside before the cheese has a chance to melt completely in the middle.

What To Serve With Grilled Chicken Cheese Sandwich

Pair this hearty sandwich with a classic creamy tomato soup for dipping. A crisp green side salad with a sharp vinaigrette also helps cut through the richness of the melted cheese.

How To Store

These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh right out of the hot skillet. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in a dry pan over low heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, just make sure to drain it very well. Pat it dry with paper towels so your sandwich does not get soggy.

What bread works best?

Sourdough, artisan white, or a thick-cut whole wheat hold up best. They support the heavy filling without falling apart in the pan.

Can I use mayonnaise instead of butter for grilling?

Absolutely, spreading a thin layer of mayonnaise on the outside of the bread works great. It yields an incredibly crispy and flavorful crust.

Nutrition

• Calories: 580 kcal
• Total Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 38g
• Protein: 34g

Try More Recipes:

• Hot Honey Grilled Chicken Sandwich Recipe
• Pesto Grilled Chicken Sandwich Recipe
• Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe