Irresistible Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread: Your Ultimate Game Day Appetizer

Looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bursting with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and ready in minutes? Look no further than this Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread! It’s the perfect snack for your next game day gathering, a casual party, or simply a fun family dinner. Combining tender shredded chicken, rich BBQ sauce, and a generous layer of melted cheese all piled high on crispy French bread, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. With just 8 simple ingredients and a quick 20-minute preparation time, you’ll be pulling apart gooey, savory slices in no time, making you the hero of any event!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Head Country Bar-B-Q. As always, all opinions are my own.

About This Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread

Get ready to impress your friends and family with this incredible Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a game-changer for any social gathering. Imagine a vibrant spread of perfectly toasted French bread, generously slathered with a sweet and savory BBQ chicken mixture, and crowned with a gooey, irresistible blanket of melted cheese. This is the kind of dish that disappears in minutes, leaving everyone asking for more!

This recipe is a true “back pocket” gem – quick to assemble, uses minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. It’s especially fantastic during football season or when you’re hosting a casual get-together, as it’s designed to feed a crowd without requiring hours in the kitchen. The magic truly happens with the star ingredient: Head Country Original BBQ Sauce.

As a devoted fan, I always return to Head Country’s Original BBQ sauce for three compelling reasons:

1. **Unmatched Flavor Profile:** This sauce strikes a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and just a hint of spice. It’s bold, rich, and incredibly versatile, making it the ideal base for all your favorite BBQ-inspired recipes. The depth of flavor it brings to the chicken mixture elevates this bread from good to absolutely outstanding.
2. **Exceptional Value:** Don’t let the affordable price tag fool you – this sauce delivers premium taste that often surpasses more expensive brands on grocery store shelves. It proves that you don’t have to compromise on quality or flavor to stay within budget, especially when cooking for many.
3. **Rich Heritage:** I have a soft spot for brands with a story, and Head Country Bar-B-Q certainly has one! Originating in 1947, this sauce has been a staple on dinner tables for generations. Its enduring popularity speaks volumes about its timeless appeal and authentic BBQ tradition. You can learn more about their journey here.

This phenomenal BBQ sauce is what binds every element of this cheesy, hearty, and intensely flavorful recipe together. With simple ingredients and a mere 20 minutes from start to finish, you’ll be enjoying perfectly gooey slices with your loved ones. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings big, bold BBQ taste to your table with minimal effort.

Key Ingredients for Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread

Crafting this delicious Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the incredible flavors and textures that make this appetizer so irresistible.

• French Bread: A sturdy loaf of French bread is truly the star here, providing the perfect crisp-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside foundation for our savory toppings. Its elongated shape and firm crust are ideal for holding generous amounts of chicken and cheese. You could also experiment with an Italian loaf, a rustic ciabatta, or even a denser sourdough, though French bread yields the most classic result.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened unsalted butter is brushed onto the bread before toasting. This step is key for achieving that golden, slightly crisp crust and adds a rich, complementary flavor without overpowering the BBQ sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
• Cooked, Shredded Chicken: This recipe is a fantastic way to utilize leftover chicken! If you don’t have any on hand, a store-bought rotisserie chicken is your best friend for convenience. Alternatively, you can quickly cook and shred chicken breasts in an Instant Pot, boil them on the stovetop, or bake them. Just ensure it’s cooked through and easily shreddable for the best texture.
• Head Country Original BBQ Sauce: As highlighted, this is the essential flavor enhancer. Head Country Original BBQ Sauce offers a perfect symphony of sweet, tangy, and smoky notes with a balanced spice, making it unparalleled for this recipe. Its robust flavor ensures every bite is packed with authentic BBQ goodness.
• Minced Garlic: Garlic is a cornerstone of so many savory dishes, and this one is no exception. It adds a pungent, aromatic depth that beautifully complements the chicken and BBQ sauce. I always keep a jar of minced garlic in my fridge for a convenient shortcut, saving time on peeling and chopping while ensuring that fresh garlic flavor.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion provides a mild sharpness and a delightful crunch, cutting through the richness of the chicken and cheese. Its vibrant color also adds visual appeal. If red onion isn’t available, a sweet onion can be a good substitute, offering a milder, less pungent flavor.
• Shredded Cheese Blend: A combination of Colby Jack and Monterey Jack cheeses creates the ultimate melty, gooey, and flavorful topping. These cheeses are known for their excellent melting properties and mild, creamy taste, which pairs wonderfully with BBQ chicken. Feel free to experiment with other good melting cheeses like mozzarella, sharp cheddar, or a Mexican blend for a slightly different twist.

Essential Equipment for This Recipe

You don’t need a lot of fancy kitchen gadgets to whip up this amazing Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread. A few basic tools will make the preparation process smooth and efficient:

• Half Sheet Baking Pan: An indispensable item for baking, a good quality half sheet baking pan is perfect for toasting your French bread halves evenly. Its ample surface area ensures the bread gets wonderfully crispy, providing a sturdy base for your toppings. You might even want to line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
• Large Mixing Bowl: You’ll need a spacious mixing bowl to comfortably combine the shredded chicken, Head Country BBQ sauce, minced garlic, and red onion. A large bowl allows for easy stirring and ensures all ingredients are thoroughly coated, guaranteeing consistent flavor in every bite.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A sturdy wooden spoon or a silicone spatula is ideal for stirring the chicken mixture. These tools are gentle on your mixing bowls and effective for combining ingredients without mashing the chicken too much.
• Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for slicing the French bread lengthwise and thinly dicing your red onion. A sharp chef’s knife makes these tasks safe and precise, while a stable cutting board protects your countertops.

How to Make Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread

This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping appetizer that everyone will rave about:

Toast the Bread

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully slice your large French bread loaf in half lengthwise, creating two flat pieces. Spread the softened unsalted butter evenly over the cut sides of both bread halves. This butter layer will help achieve a beautiful golden crust and prevent the bread from becoming soggy once the toppings are added. Place the buttered bread halves on a baking sheet and toast them in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes. This quick toast helps to create a slightly crispy base that holds up perfectly to the moist chicken and melted cheese, adding an important textural contrast to the dish.

Prepare the BBQ Chicken Topping

While your bread is toasting, prepare the flavorful BBQ chicken topping. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, the star Head Country Original BBQ Sauce, minced garlic, and thinly sliced red onion. Using a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula, stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until the chicken is completely coated in the rich, tangy BBQ sauce and the garlic and onion are well distributed. This ensures that every bite of the cheesy bread delivers a burst of delicious BBQ flavor.

Assemble and Top

Once the toasted bread comes out of the oven, it’s time to assemble your cheesy masterpiece. Evenly spread the prepared BBQ chicken mixture over the toasted halves of French bread. Make sure the chicken is distributed from edge to edge to ensure a satisfying bite every time. Next, generously sprinkle both the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and Colby Jack cheese over the chicken topping. The blend of these two cheeses provides optimal meltiness and a fantastic creamy texture once baked, creating that irresistible gooey factor.

Bake to Perfection

Return the assembled bread to the oven and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and the chicken mixture is thoroughly warmed through. For an extra golden-brown, slightly crispy top, carefully place the bread under the broiler on high for just about one minute. Keep a very close eye on it, as broilers can brown quickly! Once out of the oven, for an added touch of freshness and flavor, drizzle with a little more Head Country BBQ sauce and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley before slicing and serving immediately. This fresh garnish adds a pop of color and a herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish.

More tasty bbq appetizer recipes to try: Honey BBQ Grilled Chicken Wings | Hearty BBQ Charcuterie Board | Chipotle BBQ Steak Air Fryer Empanadas | Cheesy BBQ Chicken Pull Apart Sliders | Cheesy Pulled Pork BBQ Bread Dip

Can This Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread Be Prepped Ahead of Time?

While this Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread is incredibly quick to prepare, it’s generally best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for the optimal crispy bread and gooey cheese experience. The total cooking and assembly time is so minimal (around 20 minutes) that making it just before serving is usually the best approach.

However, if you need to get a head start, you can absolutely prepare the BBQ chicken mixture (shredded chicken, Head Country BBQ sauce, garlic, and red onion) a day in advance. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread it onto the freshly buttered and toasted French bread, add the cheese, and bake as directed. This simple prep-ahead step significantly cuts down on last-minute work, making it even easier to serve this delicious appetizer!

Can I Use a Different Kind of Bread for This Recipe?

While French bread is highly recommended for its ideal texture and shape, you certainly have options if you want to experiment or use what’s on hand. The goal is a bread that can support a generous topping without becoming too soft or soggy.

• Italian Loaf: Similar to French bread, an Italian loaf offers a good crust and soft interior, making it a great alternative. It might be a bit wider, allowing for even more topping.
• Sourdough Bread: For a tangier flavor profile, sourdough is a fantastic choice. Its denser crumb can handle the moist topping well, and its distinct taste adds another layer of complexity to the BBQ chicken.
• Ciabatta Bread: With its airy texture and crisp crust, ciabatta could work beautifully. Consider cutting a larger ciabatta loaf in half or using individual ciabatta rolls for smaller servings.

Keep in mind that the baking times might vary slightly depending on the thickness and density of your chosen bread. Always aim for a golden, slightly crispy base before adding the toppings. Regardless of your choice, ensure the bread is hearty enough to support the delicious, cheesy BBQ chicken without falling apart.

Need some more inspiration for game day? Check out my appetizers recipe page!

What to Serve with Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread

This Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread is a fantastic standalone appetizer, but it also pairs wonderfully with other game day snacks and refreshing drinks. Since it’s ideal for a party setting, here are some complementary ideas to complete your spread:

• Cool and Crisp Sides: A simple, crisp coleslaw or a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette would offer a refreshing contrast to the rich, warm bread.
• Additional Finger Foods: Round out your appetizer menu with other easy-to-eat finger foods. Consider Honey BBQ Grilled Chicken Wings for more BBQ goodness, or classic potato skins and loaded nachos.
• Big Batch Beverages: For drinks, think crowd-friendly options. A large pitcher of Chile Beer Sangria is always a hit, offering a unique and refreshing twist. Alternatively, a batch of Margarita Mexican Mules provides a zesty, bubbly option.
• Unique Cocktails: If you’re looking for a signature cocktail, this Cherry Vodka Sour offers a sweet and tart balance that’s surprisingly complementary.
• Dips and Spreads: Offer a variety of dips like a creamy ranch, blue cheese dressing, or even a spicy queso to give guests more options for their cheesy bread slices.

No matter what you choose to serve alongside it, this Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread is sure to be the star attraction of your party spread!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread leftovers, proper storage and reheating can help preserve its deliciousness for another meal. While it’s best fresh, it can still be enjoyed later!

• Storage: Once the bread has completely cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftover pieces to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days. To prevent the bread from drying out, you might want to place a piece of paper towel beneath and on top of the bread within the container.
• Reheating for Crispness: For the best texture, I highly recommend reheating this cheesy bread in a toaster oven or a conventional oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). Place the bread directly on a baking sheet and bake for about 8-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly again, and the bread is warmed through and slightly crisp.
• Microwave Reheating (Less Crisp): While quicker, reheating in the microwave will result in a softer bread and less crispy crust. If speed is your priority, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as the cheese can become rubbery.

Enjoying leftovers is a great way to extend the life of this delightful appetizer!

Cheesy BBQ Chicken Bread

This gooey bread packs in the BBQ flavor and easily feeds a crowd!

Prep Time: 5 minutes mins

Cook Time: 15 minutes mins

Total Time: 20 minutes mins

5 from 1 vote

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Equipment

• Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
• Silicone Baking Mat Sheets
• Half Sheet Pan

Ingredients

• 1 large French bread loaf cut in half lengthwise
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
• 2 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 1 1/2 to 2 chicken breasts)
• 1 cup Head Country Original BBQ Sauce + more for serving
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded monterrey jack cheese
• 1 cup shredded colby jack cheese

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 400˚F (200°C).
• Spread softened butter on the French bread halves and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 5 minutes to toast.
• While the bread is toasting, add chicken, Head Country Original BBQ Sauce, garlic, and red onion to a large bowl. Stir together until everything is evenly coated.
• Spread the chicken mixture on each half of the bread, dividing the mixture evenly between the two. Sprinkle both halves with both cheeses evenly.
• Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until warm and gooey. To get that browned top, stick it under the broiler set to High for 1 minute (watch carefully to avoid burning).
• Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.

Cuisine: Tailgating

Category: Appetizer