Pin it I stood in my kitchen at 2am, jetlagged and craving something specific. The fridge held leftover rotisserie chicken and a bag of those crispy shallots Id bought on impulse. Ten minutes later, I understood why this combination belongs in the comfort food hall of fame.
My roommate stumbled into the kitchen following that incredible smell, eyes half closed, and demanded I make him one too. Now its the only thing we make when one of us has had a terrible day at work.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded: Rotisserie saves time, but poached breasts work beautifully if you prefer control over seasoning
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise: This binds the chicken without the dryness of plain Greek yogurt or the heaviness of extra dressing
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Sharp Dijon cuts through rich cheese while adding just enough heat to keep things interesting
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Adjust based on how seasoned your cooked chicken already is
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Freshly ground makes a noticeable difference in how the pepper blooms
- 1/2 cup crispy fried shallots: Store bought ones work perfectly, but homemade will change your life if you have the time
- 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar provides the assertive flavor needed to stand up to chicken
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella delivers the insane cheese pull in every single bite
- 8 slices sourdough or country bread: Sturdy bread that can handle this much filling without turning soggy or falling apart
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter spreads evenly without tearing the bread
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until every shred of chicken is lightly coated and seasoned.
- Butter the bread:
- Lay out all bread slices and spread butter on one side of each piece, reaching all corners to ensure even golden browning.
- Build the first layer:
- Place 4 bread slices butter side down on your work surface. Top each with one slice of sharp cheddar, creating a solid cheese base.
- Add the filling:
- Divide the chicken mixture evenly among the sandwiches, followed by 2 tablespoons of crispy shallots per sandwich.
- Layer the remaining cheese:
- Add one slice of mozzarella to each sandwich, then top with another slice of sharp cheddar for maximum cheese coverage.
- Close the sandwiches:
- Place the remaining bread slices on top, butter side facing out.
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook in a heated skillet or griddle over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until deeply golden and the cheese has melted completely.
- Rest before serving:
- Let the sandwiches rest for 1 to 2 minutes so the cheese sets slightly.
Pin it I made these for a Sunday dinner with friends last winter, and we all stood around the stove eating them straight from the cutting board, forks abandoned, napkins forgotten.
Make It Your Own
Thinly sliced tomato adds acidity that cuts through the richness, and bread and butter pickles bring a tangy crunch. A smear of fig jam creates an unexpected sweetness that makes people ask what your secret ingredient is.
The Bread Choice Matters
Sourdough provides tang and structure that holds up beautifully under all these toppings. Country bread with a thick crust creates incredible texture contrast. Whatever you choose, avoid ultra soft sandwich bread that will turn to mush.
Perfect Pairings
Tomato soup is the classic choice, but a bright arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness. Roasted tomato bisque feels elegant enough for dinner guests.
- Letting the sandwiches rest prevents molten cheese from escaping the moment you cut them
- A sharp knife creates clean slices instead of squishing everything out
- Cutting diagonally feels fancy but actually makes them easier to eat
Pin it Some recipes are just worth the extra napkin or two.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve crispy shallots for this sandwich?
Use store-bought crispy fried shallots or thinly slice shallots and fry them in hot oil until golden and crisp, then drain on paper towels.
- → Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, sharp cheddar and mozzarella provide both flavor and meltiness, but feel free to substitute with your preferred varieties.
- → What is the best bread for this sandwich?
Sourdough or country bread works well due to its sturdy texture and flavor, helping hold the fillings without becoming soggy.
- → How long should I grill the sandwich?
Cook on medium heat for about 3–4 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- → Can I prepare the chicken mixture in advance?
Yes, combining shredded chicken with mayonnaise and seasonings ahead saves time and enhances flavor as it melds.