Chili Honey Chicken Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Sweet and spicy shredded chicken with honey, chili crisp, and melted cheese layered in crisp bread.

# What You Need:

→ Chicken Mixture

01 - 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
02 - 2 tablespoons honey
03 - 2 tablespoons chili crisp, plus extra for serving
04 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
05 - 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Sandwich Components

07 - 8 slices sourdough or sturdy sandwich bread
08 - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
09 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
10 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
11 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for extra crispness)

# Step-by-Step:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken, honey, chili crisp, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated. Set aside.
02 - Mix shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese in a separate bowl until evenly blended.
03 - Lay out bread slices and spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each. If desired, spread mayonnaise on the opposite side to enhance crispness.
04 - On the unbuttered side of half the bread slices, layer a generous portion of the cheese mixture, then evenly distribute the honey chili crisp chicken, and top with more cheese. Cover with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
05 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place sandwiches onto the surface and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula until the bread is golden brown and cheese is melted. Work in batches if necessary.
06 - Remove sandwiches from heat and allow to cool slightly. Slice and serve with extra chili crisp if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The honey and chili crisp create a glaze that's addictive without being pretentious—it tastes like you actually know what you're doing in the kitchen.
  • Mozzarella melts like a dream while sharp cheddar adds a backbone that keeps the sandwich from tasting one-dimensional.
  • Ready in 25 minutes total, which means you can make this on a Tuesday night without any special planning.
02 -
  • Medium heat is non-negotiable—high heat will char the outside while the cheese is still cold in the center, and you'll be genuinely upset about it.
  • Softened butter spreads without shredding the bread; cold butter is your enemy and will leave you frustrated before the pan even gets warm.
  • Mozzarella alone will melt but taste flat; sharp cheddar is what prevents this from tasting like nothing.
03 -
  • Chill your shredded cheese for 15 minutes before using it if your kitchen is warm; cold cheese melts more evenly and doesn't separate as easily.
  • Taste the chicken glaze before you assemble the sandwiches—if it needs more heat or sweetness, adjust it then rather than realizing it mid-bite.
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