Craving a hearty, flavorful sandwich that brings together smoky barbecue chicken, gooey mozzarella cheese, and the satisfying crunch of grilled bread? These Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches deliver all that and more. Juicy grilled chicken slathered in tangy BBQ sauce, layered with melted mozzarella, and packed between buttery toasted buns make for an irresistible meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or weekend cookouts.
Easy to prepare yet impressive on the plate, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Serves 4
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 4 sandwich buns or ciabatta rolls
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for grilling bread)
- Optional toppings: sliced red onion, lettuce, tomato, pickles
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Marinating time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
- Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag.
- Pour half the BBQ sauce over the chicken, coating evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavor.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill or Grill Pan
- Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the grates or pan with oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
- Remove chicken from marinade (discard leftover marinade).
- Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush chicken with remaining BBQ sauce and top each breast with mozzarella slices. Close the grill lid or cover with foil to melt the cheese.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
- Brush buns with olive oil or melted butter.
- Place buns cut side down on the grill for 1–2 minutes until golden and crisp.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Place grilled chicken with melted mozzarella on the bottom half of each bun.
- Add optional toppings like lettuce, tomato, red onion, or pickles as desired.
- Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with a cold beer or iced tea for the perfect summer meal.
- Wrap in foil for easy transport to picnics or outdoor gatherings.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 sandwich) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 42 grams |
| Total Fat | 18 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 7 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 45 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugars | 10 grams |
| Sodium | 900 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Chicken breast provides a lean source of high-quality protein.
- Mozzarella cheese adds creamy texture and calcium.
- BBQ sauce contributes flavor and sweetness—choose low-sugar options to reduce added sugars.
- Whole grain buns can increase fiber content for a heartier meal.
Tips for Success
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- For extra smoky flavor, grill wood chips alongside the chicken if using an outdoor grill.
- Allow chicken to rest a few minutes after grilling for juicier results.
- Customize your sandwich with spicy BBQ sauce or add jalapeños for heat.
Variations to Try
- Swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
- Use grilled pineapple slices to add a sweet tropical twist.
- Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for more juiciness.
- Try using ciabatta or brioche buns for different textures and flavors.
These Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches combine smoky, cheesy, and tangy flavors in a perfectly grilled handheld meal. Easy to prepare yet full of bold taste, they’re ideal for backyard barbecues, quick weeknight dinners, or casual gatherings. Serve them up and watch these sandwiches disappear fast!