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Smoky BBQ chicken served on a plate, showcasing juicy texture and rich sauce.

Smoky BBQ Chicken Meltdown

A delightful mix of smoky BBQ, creamy Havarti cheese, and crispy sourdough bread for a deliciously gooey sandwich.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 490 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the BBQ Chicken

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil A rich and healthy fat that enhances flavor.
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced Adds a sweet, aromatic crunch.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced For that zesty, savory kick.
  • 2.5 cups shredded roast chicken Hearty and protein-packed.
  • 0.5 teaspoon paprika Infuses a subtle warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Enhances umami flavors.
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce The star of the show, providing sweetness and smokiness.

For the Sandwich Assembly

  • 12 slices Havarti cheese Creamy and melts beautifully.
  • 0.25 cup butter For golden, crispy bread.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Extra flavor for the garlic butter spread.
  • 2 teaspoons parsley, minced A touch of freshness.
  • 12 slices sourdough bread or sturdy white bread Firm enough to hold the fillings.

Instructions
 

BBQ Chicken Preparation

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced red onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 2 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the shredded roast chicken, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ sauce. Stir to combine and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Garlic Butter Bread

  • Melt the butter in the microwave and stir in the minced garlic and parsley.
  • Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over each slice of sourdough bread.
  • Flip the slices over so that the buttered side is facing down.

Assemble the Sandwiches

  • On six of the slices, lay down a slice of Havarti cheese, followed by an even portion of the BBQ chicken mixture.
  • Top each with another slice of Havarti cheese and finish with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side facing out.

Cook the Sandwiches

  • Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook the assembled sandwiches in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per side.
  • Lower the heat to medium-low and continue cooking until the cheese is melted, about another 3-5 minutes.

Serve

  • Carefully slice each sandwich in half and serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider using fresh herbs and quality BBQ sauce. Add sautéed peppers or spinach for nutrition. Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.
Keyword BBQ Chicken, Cheesy Meltdown, Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Sandwich