Introduction

This Ultimate Grilled BBQ Chicken Sandwich is the perfect quick meal for busy weeknights, ready in just 20 minutes! Tender grilled chicken is slathered in tangy barbecue sauce, topped with melted mozzarella, and served on a toasted bun for a satisfying crunch. For another fast family favorite, try this Monterey Chicken Is A Dinner The Whole Family Will Love. It’s a fuss-free dinner that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

These Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches combine smoky BBQ sauce with melted mozzarella and fresh cilantro for a satisfying meal with minimal prep time.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1/4 medium red onion, sliced
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 8 slices crusty Italian bread
• 8 slices thick-cut mozzarella cheese

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	10 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes

Context: These Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches come together about 25% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

Pat 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Let the seasoned chicken sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to ensure even cooking on the grill.

Step 2 — Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature of 375–400°F. If using a gas grill, set all burners to medium-high. For a charcoal grill, arrange hot coals for direct heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Step 3 — Grill the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for 6–8 minutes per side, depending on thickness. The chicken is ready to flip when it releases easily from the grates. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for safe doneness.

Step 4 — Apply BBQ Sauce

During the last 2–3 minutes of grilling, brush a generous layer of your favorite BBQ sauce onto both sides of the chicken. Let the sauce caramelize slightly on the grill, but watch carefully to prevent burning due to the sugar content in most sauces.

Step 5 — Toast the Buns

While the chicken rests, slice 4 brioche or potato buns in half and place them cut-side down on the cooler part of the grill. Toast for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden and crisp. You can also toast them in a skillet or toaster oven if preferred.

Step 6 — Assemble the Sandwiches

Place a grilled BBQ chicken breast on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top each with 1–2 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese. The residual heat from the chicken will begin to melt the cheese slightly. Add any optional toppings like lettuce, red onion, or pickles at this stage.

Step 7 — Serve Immediately

Close the sandwiches with the top bun and serve your Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches immediately while warm. These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, as the toasted buns may soften over time from the juicy chicken and sauce.

Nutritional Information

Calories	520
Protein	38g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fat	22g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	980mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey breast — Leaner protein option with mild flavor that pairs well with BBQ sauce
• Portobello mushrooms — Hearty vegetarian alternative with meaty texture and earthy flavor
• Lettuce wraps — Lower-carb option that adds fresh crunch while reducing bread calories
• Dairy-free cheese — Plant-based mozzarella alternatives that melt well for lactose-free versions
• Whole wheat buns — Higher fiber option that provides more nutrients than white bread
• Low-sodium BBQ sauce — Reduced salt version that maintains the sweet and tangy profile
• Grilled eggplant slices — Mediterranean twist with soft texture that absorbs BBQ flavors beautifully
• Gluten-free buns — Celiac-friendly alternative that works perfectly for these Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crispy sweet potato fries or a light coleslaw for contrasting textures
• Serve at summer cookouts, game day gatherings, or casual weeknight dinners
• Accompany with pickles and onion rings for added crunch and tang
• Offer alongside corn on the cob or grilled vegetables during barbecue season
• Present on wooden boards with parchment paper for rustic picnic-style plating
• Cut sandwiches diagonally and secure with skewers for neat presentation
• Serve with various BBQ sauce options for customizable heat levels

These Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches make a satisfying main course that pairs well with both light and hearty sides, perfect for casual entertaining or family meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using thick BBQ sauce that burns before chicken cooks through. Fix: Apply sauce in the last 5 minutes of grilling or thin it with apple cider vinegar.
• Mistake: Overcooking chicken breasts until dry and tough. Fix: Grill to 165°F internal temperature and let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
• Mistake: Placing cold mozzarella on hot chicken so it doesn’t melt properly. Fix: Bring cheese to room temperature while chicken grills for even melting.
• Mistake: Choosing bread that gets soggy from BBQ sauce and chicken juices. Fix: Use sturdy brioche or ciabatta rolls and lightly toast them first.
• Mistake: Skipping the marinade step for bland, one-dimensional flavor. Fix: Marinate chicken in buttermilk or olive oil with spices for 2+ hours.
• Mistake: Piling ingredients too high so the sandwich falls apart. Fix: Slice chicken thinly and layer strategically with crisp lettuce for structure.
• Mistake: Grilling on high heat causing charred exterior and raw interior. Fix: Use medium heat (350-400°F) and flip chicken every 4-5 minutes.
• Mistake: Not balancing sweet BBQ sauce with acidic or crunchy elements. Fix: Add pickles, coleslaw, or a squeeze of fresh lime to cut richness.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep chicken at or below 40°F for food safety.
• Freezer: Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Microwave reheating may result in soggy bread.

Always check that your Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F when reheating to ensure food safety and optimal flavor.

Conclusion

These Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a surefire hit for any summer cookout or easy weeknight dinner. We hope you love this recipe as much as we do! Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. For more delicious ideas like our Loaded BBQ Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole Recipe, be sure to subscribe for updates.

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Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

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A delicious grilled sandwich featuring tender BBQ chicken, melted mozzarella cheese, and crusty bread, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

• Author: Dorothy Miller
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x
• Method: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1/4 medium red onion, sliced
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 8 slices crusty Italian bread
• 8 slices thick-cut mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add shredded chicken and sliced red onion. Cook until chicken is warmed through and onion has softened.
3. Stir in BBQ sauce and cilantro. Mix well, then transfer to a bowl and set aside.
4. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Spread one side of each slice of bread with softened butter.
6. Place one slice of mozzarella cheese on the non-buttered side of four bread slices.
7. Spoon 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture onto each cheese-topped slice.
8. Place another slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken.
9. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
10. Cook sandwiches over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cheese is melted.
11. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, use smoked mozzarella. Add avocado slices for creaminess. Use your favorite BBQ sauce for a personalized touch.

Nutrition

• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 8
• Sodium: 800
• Fat: 22
• Saturated Fat: 10
• Unsaturated Fat: 12
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 35
• Fiber: 2
• Protein: 38
• Cholesterol: 100

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese for these Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack cheese. These alternatives will still melt beautifully and complement the BBQ chicken, though the classic flavor of Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches may vary slightly.

What is the best way to prevent the chicken from drying out on the grill?

To keep the chicken juicy, pound it to an even thickness and marinate it before grilling. Cook it over medium heat and brush with BBQ sauce only during the last few minutes to avoid burning the sugar, ensuring perfect Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches.

Can I prepare these sandwiches ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken and slice your toppings in advance, but assemble and grill just before serving. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy and ensures your Grilled Mozzarella BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are warm and crispy.