Description
Ranch Chicken Bacon Grilled Cheese Melt
Ingredients:
2 cups shredded Gouda cheese
10 slices maple-glazed bacon
2 cooked BBQ chicken breasts, sliced
2 tbsp ranch dressing
4 tbsp butter
8 slices brioche bread
Instructions:
Heat a pan over medium heat.
Butter the outside of each brioche slice.
Assemble with Gouda cheese, BBQ chicken, bacon, and a hint of ranch.
Grill on both sides until perfectly crispy.
Serve with a side of pickles!
#BBQGrilledCheese
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect melt. First, cook the bacon until crispy, then set aside on paper towels. Shred the Gouda cheese and slice the cooked BBQ chicken breasts. Take two slices of brioche bread per sandwich. Butter the outer side of each slice generously. On the unbuttered side of one slice, layer a handful of shredded Gouda, half of the sliced chicken for one sandwich, two to three slices of bacon, and a drizzle of ranch dressing. Top with another handful of Gouda and the second slice of bread, buttered side out. Preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwich in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. Repeat for the second sandwich.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and savory melt pairs beautifully with light, acidic, or crisp sides to cut through the richness. Classic dill pickle spears or a tangy bread-and-butter pickle chip are perfect. For a fuller meal, serve with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or a bowl of tomato soup for dipping. A cold glass of lager or iced tea completes the comfort food experience.
How-to Summary
Butter brioche slices, layer with shredded Gouda, sliced BBQ chicken, crispy bacon, and ranch dressing. Grill in a medium-hot pan until the bread is golden and the cheese is oozing. Serve immediately with pickles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese? Yes, while Gouda provides a superb melt and flavor, Monterey Jack, sharp cheddar, or a smoked cheese blend are excellent substitutes.
What if I don’t have pre-cooked BBQ chicken? You can quickly cook two chicken breasts seasoned with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika, then shred or slice them. A tablespoon of your favorite BBQ sauce mixed into the chicken adds the needed flavor.
How do I prevent a soggy sandwich? Ensure your pan is properly preheated to medium, not high. This allows the bread to crisp up and the cheese to melt evenly without burning the exterior.
Can I make this in a panini press? Absolutely. A panini press will create excellent grill marks and even pressure. No need to flip—just cook until golden and melted.
How can I make this ahead of time? You can cook the bacon and chicken ahead. Assemble the sandwiches just before cooking to prevent the bread from becoming soggy from the ranch and chicken moisture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using cheese that isn’t fully shredded, as chunks won’t melt evenly. Don’t overfill the sandwich, as this makes it difficult to flip and can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure your heat is at a true medium; too high will burn the buttered bread before the cheese melts. Finally, do not press down too hard while grilling, which can squeeze out the delicious fillings.
Conclusion
This Ranch Chicken Bacon Grilled Cheese Melt is the ultimate upgrade to a classic comfort food. By combining smoky BBQ chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch, and melted Gouda in buttery brioche, you create a restaurant-quality sandwich at home. Following the detailed steps and tips ensures a perfectly crispy, gooey result every time. It’s a decadent, satisfying meal that is sure to become a new favorite.
