Grilled BBQ Chicken Pineapple Sandwich

Are you ready to elevate your grilled cheese game with a mouthwatering twist? Look no further than this crowd-pleasing recipe for BBQ Chicken Pineapple Grilled Cheese! This innovative sandwich creation is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Imagine juicy, tender chicken breasts smothered in sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, paired with sharp cheddar cheese, and sandwiched between two slices of thick-cut sourdough bread. But the star of the show? Those luscious pineapple rings that add a tropical twist to each bite. The combination might sound unconventional, but trust me, it’s a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss!

Inspired by a Hawaiian pizza craving and perfected through trial and error, this BBQ Chicken Pineapple Grilled Cheese has become a beloved weekend staple in many households. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or a comforting dinner option, this sandwich is sure to hit the spot. Get ready to take your grilled cheese game to the next level with this delicious and indulgent recipe!

Quick Benefits

• Innovative Flavor Combination: The BBQ chicken and pineapple create a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors in each bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the sandwich with different BBQ sauces, fruits, or even meat options like turkey, making it adaptable to your preferences.
• Kid-Friendly: A hit with kids, this sandwich is a great way to introduce new flavors and ingredients in a familiar and comforting format.
• Quick and Easy: Once you’ve mastered the proportions and heat, this recipe is straightforward to make, making it a convenient option for a delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled BBQ Chicken Pineapple Sandwich Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, juicy pineapple, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a flavor explosion that is both comforting and exciting.
• Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters will love this sandwich, as proven by the author’s own children and their friends who declared it “actually fire.”
• Versatile and Customizable: You can switch up the BBQ sauce flavor, try different fruits like apple slices, or even substitute the chicken with turkey for a new twist each time you make it.
• Foolproof Recipe: After a bit of trial and error with heat levels and ingredient ratios, this recipe is now considered foolproof, ensuring delicious results every time you make it.
• Perfect Comfort Food: These grilled cheese sandwiches hit the spot when you’re craving something indulgent yet comforting, making them an ideal choice for a lazy weekend treat.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up these sandwiches in no time, making them a convenient option for a satisfying meal.
• Great for Leftovers: If you have leftover chicken, this recipe is a fantastic way to give it new life and prevent food waste, turning mundane leftovers into a mouthwatering meal.

Ingredients for Grilled BBQ Chicken Pineapple Sandwich

For the BBQ Chicken

• 1 cup sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, divided
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Sandwiches

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 12 thin pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 8 slices thick-cut sourdough bread
• Cooking spray

How to Make Grilled BBQ Chicken Pineapple Sandwich

Step 1: Bake the chicken

Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish, coat with half of the BBQ sauce, and bake for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices are clear.

Step 2: Shred and season

Take chicken out of the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks, then mix it with the remaining BBQ sauce until evenly coated.

Step 3: Prep the bread

Spread butter on one side of each bread slice, then place them butter-side down on your work surface to use as the outside of your sandwiches.

Step 4: Build the sandwiches

Layer ¼ cup cheese, ¼ of the BBQ chicken mixture, 3 pineapple rings, and another ¼ cup cheese on 4 bread slices. Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up, and press gently to adhere.

Step 5: Grill to perfection

Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and coat with cooking spray. Cook 2 sandwiches at a time, buttered side down, for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Carefully flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the second side is golden and cheese is melted.

Step 6: Serve hot

Take off the heat and allow to cool for 1 minute. Slice each sandwich diagonally in half and serve promptly while the cheese is melted.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve made these BBQ chicken and pineapple grilled cheese sandwiches, it’s best to enjoy them right off the skillet while everything is hot and gooey. They are perfect when served fresh with some chips and pickles, or even a simple salad if you’re looking for a lighter accompaniment. Due to the nature of the dish, these sandwiches do not store well because the bread tends to get soggy. However, you can store the leftover chicken mixture in the fridge for a few days and use it as a delicious filling for quesadillas. If you must reheat a sandwich, using a toaster oven is recommended over the microwave to help retain some crispness.

Experimenting with different BBQ sauces, such as honey mustard or spicy variations, can add an interesting twist to these sandwiches. You can also try substituting pineapple with thin apple slices for a different kind of sweetness or use leftover turkey instead of chicken. These BBQ chicken and pineapple grilled cheese sandwiches have become a beloved Saturday tradition for many families, offering a comforting and indulgent meal that’s easy to put together. Despite the initial skepticism about the unconventional combination, these sandwiches have won over the hearts of both kids and adults alike with their unique and delicious flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have boneless, skinless chicken breasts on hand, you can substitute with leftover rotisserie chicken, shredded cooked chicken, or even canned chicken for convenience. Just ensure the chicken is well seasoned and coated in BBQ sauce before assembling the sandwiches. To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, swap the chicken for sliced grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu for a flavorful alternative.

For those who prefer a different cheese, feel free to experiment with substitutes like Gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a unique twist on the classic grilled cheese. You can also mix different cheeses together for a more complex flavor profile. Additionally, if you’re not a fan of pineapple, consider using mango slices, sliced peaches, or roasted red peppers for a different sweet and savory combination. These variations can cater to personal preferences and dietary needs while still delivering a delicious and satisfying grilled cheese experience.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these BBQ Chicken Pineapple Grilled Cheese sandwiches with a side of crispy sweet potato fries for a delicious and satisfying meal. The sweetness of the pineapple and tangy BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with the gooey cheese and savory chicken, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. For a fun twist, try cutting the sandwiches into smaller pieces and serving them as appetizers at your next gathering.

To elevate the presentation of these BBQ Chicken Pineapple Grilled Cheese sandwiches, consider garnishing them with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. You can also serve them with a dollop of creamy coleslaw on the side to balance out the richness of the sandwich. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering with friends or simply looking to treat yourself to a comforting meal, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

FAQs for Grilled BBQ Chicken Pineapple Sandwich

Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for thick-cut sourdough bread, you can use any type of bread you prefer or have on hand. Just keep in mind that the thickness of the bread may affect cooking time and the overall texture of the sandwich.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this grilled cheese by omitting the chicken. You can add more pineapple slices or incorporate other veggies like bell peppers or caramelized onions for a flavorful twist.

How can I prevent the sandwich from burning while ensuring the cheese melts?

To prevent burning the bread while ensuring the cheese melts, cook the sandwich over medium heat and keep a close eye on it. You can also cover the skillet with a lid or foil for the first few minutes to help the cheese melt evenly without burning the bread.

Can I freeze these sandwiches for later?

It’s not recommended to freeze these grilled cheese sandwiches as the texture may become soggy when reheated. It’s best to enjoy them fresh off the skillet for the optimal taste and texture.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for BBQ Chicken Pineapple Grilled Cheese brings as much joy to your weekend lunches as it has to mine and my family’s. It’s a delightful twist on a classic grilled cheese sandwich that never fails to satisfy our cravings for something comforting and delicious. The sweet and tangy BBQ sauce paired with juicy pineapple and savory chicken, sandwiched between crispy sourdough bread and gooey cheddar cheese, creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.

Remember, don’t be discouraged by any initial mishaps in the kitchen – perfecting these grilled cheese sandwiches is all part of the fun! So, gather your loved ones, fire up the skillet, and dive into the world of BBQ Chicken Pineapple Grilled Cheese sandwiches. Embrace the process, enjoy the aromas wafting through your kitchen, and savor each bite of this delectable creation. Here’s to many more memorable moments and delicious meals shared around the table with your loved ones. Cheers to the magic of BBQ Chicken Pineapple Grilled Cheese!

Grilled BBQ Chicken Pineapple Sandwich

Indulge in a Saturday tradition with this “actually fire” BBQ chicken pineapple grilled cheese that combines familiar flavors in a new and exciting way.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time5 Minutes

Cook Time30 Minutes

Total Time35 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (4 sandwiches)

Ingredients

For the BBQ Chicken

• 1 cup sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, divided
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Sandwiches

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 12 thin pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 8 slices thick-cut sourdough bread
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Bake the chicken: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish, coat with half of the BBQ sauce, and bake for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices are clear.
2. Shred and season: Take chicken out of the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks, then mix it with the remaining BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
3. Prep the bread: Spread butter on one side of each bread slice, then place them butter-side down on your work surface to use as the outside of your sandwiches.
4. Build the sandwiches: Layer ¼ cup cheese, ¼ of the BBQ chicken mixture, 3 pineapple rings, and another ¼ cup cheese on 4 bread slices. Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up, and press gently to adhere.
5. Grill to perfection: Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and coat with cooking spray. Cook 2 sandwiches at a time, buttered side down, for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Carefully flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the second side is golden and cheese is melted.
6. Serve hot: Take off the heat and allow to cool for 1 minute. Slice each sandwich diagonally in half and serve promptly while the cheese is melted.