This BBQ Chicken Pineapple Grilled Cheese sandwich combines the tangy sweetness of BBQ sauce and pineapple with the sharpness of cheddar, all melted together between slices of crispy bread. It’s a gourmet twist on the classic grilled cheese that’s perfect for a hearty lunch or a casual dinner. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- One cup of sweet and spicy BBQ sauce, separated.
- 8 slices thick-sliced bread, such as sourdough
- Two cups of extra sharp cheddar cheese, grated using the largest setting.
- Twelve thinly sliced pineapple strips (you can also use thinly sliced canned pineapple).
- Butter, for spreading
- Nonstick spray, for cooking
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cook the chicken breasts until fully done. You can either grill, bake, or pan-fry them according to your preference. Once cooked, let them cool slightly and then shred or chop the meat finely.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with about ¾ cup of the BBQ sauce, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread butter on one side of every slice of bread. These buttered sides will be the outer parts of the sandwich to achieve a golden, crispy finish.
- Flip the slices over and brush the other sides with the remaining BBQ sauce.
- On four slices of the bread (BBQ sauce side up), evenly distribute the grated cheddar cheese.
- Arrange the BBQ chicken over the cheese, then lay the pineapple strips on top of the chicken.
- Top with an additional layer of cheese before covering with another slice of bread, buttered side up.
- Grill the Sandwiches:
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place the sandwiches in the skillet, pressing them down slightly with a spatula.
- Cook until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has started to melt, about 3-4 minutes per side. You may need to adjust the heat to prevent the bread from burning while allowing enough time for the cheese to melt thoroughly.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the sandwiches from the skillet. Let them sit for a minute before cutting, allowing the cheese to set slightly, which makes them less messy to eat.
- Cut each sandwich in half and serve while hot.
Tips:
- Cheese Varieties: While extra sharp cheddar provides a nice bite against the sweet BBQ sauce, you can also use Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- BBQ Sauce Options: Choose a BBQ sauce that complements your taste; anything from honey BBQ to a more traditional smoky sauce works well, depending on how sweet or spicy you like your sandwich.
- Adding Extras: For an even more flavorful sandwich, consider adding a slice of cooked bacon or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro inside the sandwich for added texture and taste.
Conclusion:
This BBQ Chicken Pineapple Grilled Cheese sandwich is an indulgent and satisfying meal that perfectly blends a variety of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making a quick dinner or serving up a unique lunch, this sandwich is sure to impress with its delightful combination of sweet, savory, and cheesy elements. Enjoy the comfort of a grilled cheese with the added bonus of BBQ chicken and pineapple for a truly special dish.