The 10 Best Cheeses for BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

BBQ chicken sandwiches are a classic American favorite that have been enjoyed for generations.

Whether you’re grilling at a backyard barbecue, ordering takeout, or cooking up a quick meal at home, there’s no denying the appeal of a juicy, flavorful chicken sandwich smothered in tangy BBQ sauce.

But what really takes a BBQ chicken sandwich to the next level?

The answer is simple: the best cheese for BBQ chicken sandwiches.

Choosing the right cheese to add to your BBQ chicken sandwich can enhance the flavors and textures of the dish, providing a delicious contrast to the smoky, savory taste of the BBQ sauce and chicken.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best cheeses for BBQ chicken sandwiches, discussing the unique qualities of each cheese and providing tips on how to use them to create a mouthwatering sandwich that will satisfy even the most discerning cheese and BBQ lovers.

So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect cheese to elevate your BBQ chicken sandwich to new heights!

Criteria for Selecting the Best Cheese for BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Selecting the right cheese for your BBQ chicken sandwich is key to creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here are the main criteria to consider when choosing the best cheese for BBQ chicken sandwiches:

• Flavor Profile: When selecting a cheese for your BBQ chicken sandwich, consider the flavor profile of the cheese. You want a cheese that complements the smoky and tangy flavors of the BBQ sauce and the chicken. Cheeses that are too mild or too strong can overpower the other ingredients and disrupt the balance of the sandwich. Look for cheeses that have a robust and savory flavor that can hold up against the BBQ sauce.
• Texture: Texture is another important consideration when selecting the best cheese for BBQ chicken sandwiches. You want a cheese that melts well and adds a creamy and smooth texture to the sandwich. Cheeses that are too crumbly or hard can be difficult to melt and may not provide the desired texture. Look for cheeses that have a semi-soft to semi-hard texture and melt easily.
• Availability and Affordability: Finally, availability and affordability are important factors to consider when selecting the best cheese for BBQ chicken sandwiches. You want to choose a cheese that is readily available and affordable in your area, and that fits your budget. While some specialty cheeses may offer unique flavors and textures, they may not be easily accessible or cost-effective. It’s best to choose cheeses that are widely available and reasonably priced for the best results.

The 10 Best Cheeses for BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Now that we’ve covered the criteria for selecting the best cheese for BBQ chicken sandwiches, let’s dive into the top 10 cheeses that will take your sandwich to the next level.

1. Cheddar: Cheddar is a classic cheese that pairs well with BBQ sauce and chicken. Its sharp, tangy flavor adds depth to the sandwich, and it melts easily, providing a creamy texture. For an extra kick, try using smoked cheddar or jalapeno cheddar.
2. Gouda: Gouda is a versatile cheese that comes in a range of flavors and textures. Smoked gouda is an excellent option for BBQ chicken sandwiches, as it adds a rich and smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce. Spicy gouda also works well, providing a bit of heat to the sandwich.
3. Pepper Jack: Pepper Jack is a semi-soft cheese that’s perfect for melting on a BBQ chicken sandwich. It has a mild, creamy flavor with a hint of spice, thanks to the addition of jalapeno peppers. It pairs well with the smoky and tangy flavors of the BBQ sauce.
4. Colby: Colby is a semi-hard cheese with a mild flavor that melts well. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a cheese that won’t overpower the other ingredients in the sandwich. Its creamy texture adds a nice contrast to the crispy chicken and tangy BBQ sauce.
5. Provolone: Provolone is a popular cheese for sandwiches, thanks to its mild and buttery flavor. It melts well and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a cheese that won’t compete with the other flavors in the sandwich.
6. Blue Cheese: Blue cheese is a bold and tangy cheese that can add a unique twist to a BBQ chicken sandwich. Its strong flavor pairs well with the smoky and tangy flavors of the BBQ sauce. If you’re a fan of blue cheese, try it on your next BBQ chicken sandwich.
7. Swiss: Swiss cheese is a semi-hard cheese with a nutty flavor that pairs well with BBQ sauce and chicken. It melts well and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a cheese that’s not too overpowering.
8. Brie: Brie is a soft and buttery cheese that melts well and adds a creamy texture to a BBQ chicken sandwich. Its mild flavor complements the smoky and tangy flavors of the BBQ sauce. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a cheese that’s a bit different than the usual options.
9. Havarti: Havarti is a semi-soft cheese with a mild, buttery flavor that melts well. It adds a creamy texture to the sandwich and pairs well with the smoky and tangy flavors of the BBQ sauce. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a cheese that’s a bit different than the usual options.
10. Monterey Jack: Monterey Jack is a semi-soft cheese with a mild flavor that melts well. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a cheese that won’t overpower the other ingredients in the sandwich. Its creamy texture adds a nice contrast to the crispy chicken and tangy BBQ sauce.

How to Use Cheese in BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Now that you have a list of the top 10 best cheeses for BBQ chicken sandwiches, it’s time to talk about how to use them in your sandwiches.

Here are some tips for melting cheese on your BBQ chicken sandwich and other toppings that pair well with the selected cheeses:

Tips for melting cheese on the sandwich:

• Use a low heat setting to melt the cheese slowly and evenly.
• Cover the sandwich with a lid or a piece of foil to trap the heat and help the cheese melt faster.
• Add the cheese to the sandwich just before it’s done cooking to ensure it melts properly.

Suggested bread types for optimal cheese melt:

• Brioche bun
• Sourdough bread
• Ciabatta roll
• Texas toast

Other toppings and condiments that pair well with the selected cheeses:

• Bacon
• Avocado
• Red onion
• Tomato
• Lettuce
• Mayo
• Ranch dressing
• Mustard

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best cheese for your BBQ chicken sandwich can take it from good to great.

When selecting a cheese, consider the flavor profile, texture, availability, and affordability.

From classic cheddar to bold blue cheese, there’s a cheese out there that will take your BBQ chicken sandwich to the next level.

So, what is the best cheese for a BBQ chicken sandwich?

The best cheese for a BBQ chicken sandwich is Monterey Jack. This semi-soft cheese has a mild flavor that will not overpower the other components of the sandwich. It also melts easily, making it perfect for any grilled or melted sandwiches. Havarti and pepper Jack are also good options as they both have distinct flavors that can complement the barbecue sauce.

Remember to experiment with different combinations of cheeses and toppings to find your favorite flavor and texture profile. Whether you’re grilling at a backyard BBQ, ordering takeout, or cooking up a quick meal at home, adding the perfect cheese can elevate your BBQ chicken sandwich to a new level of deliciousness.