Save The first time I made this sandwich was during a rainy weekend when rotisserie chicken was on sale and I had a bag of fried shallots I impulse-bought. The crunch when I took that first bite absolutely shocked me. Now whenever gray weather hits, my kitchen starts smelling like buttery toasty heaven and I know exactly what is for lunch.
I served these at a casual dinner with friends last winter and watched everyone go silent after their first bite. Someone actually asked if there was a secret ingredient. That moment when a simple sandwich makes people happy is exactly why I keep cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded: Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here but poached breasts give you more control over seasoning
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise: This keeps the chicken mixture moist without overwhelming the other flavors
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds just enough sharpness to cut through the rich cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Taste your chicken first since rotisserie can already be seasoned
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Freshly ground makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor
- 1/2 cup crispy fried shallots: These are the star ingredient that makes this sandwich unforgettable
- 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar provides the bold cheesy punch we want
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese: This creates the gorgeous cheese pull and balances the cheddar
- 8 slices sourdough or country bread: Sturdy bread that will not get soggy under all these toppings
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter spreads evenly and helps the bread toast perfectly
Instructions
- Make the chicken mixture:
- In a medium bowl combine the shredded chicken mayonnaise Dijon mustard salt and pepper mixing until every piece is evenly coated.
- Prepare the bread:
- Lay out all your bread slices and spread softened butter on one side of each piece.
- Layer the fillings:
- Place four bread slices butter side down then top with cheddar chicken mixture shallots mozzarella and another cheddar slice.
- Close the sandwiches:
- Top each sandwich with the remaining bread slices butter side facing up.
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side pressing gently until golden and melty.
- Rest and serve:
- Let the sandwiches rest for 1 to 2 minutes before slicing so the cheese sets slightly.
Save This sandwich has become my go-to when I need to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. People remember it. They ask for it again. That is the highest compliment a recipe can get.
Choosing Your Cheese
Sharp cheddar brings the bold flavor while mozzarella contributes the stretch. The first time I used only cheddar the sandwich was good but missing that incredible cheese pull. Now I never skip the mozzarella layer.
Bread Matters
Sourdough or country bread holds up better than soft sandwich bread which can turn soggy. I learned this the hard way when I used white sandwich bread and ended up with a messy delicious disaster. Structure matters when you are piling on this many toppings.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I add thin tomato slices when I want something fresh and acidic. Other times I layer on pickles for crunch and tang. The base recipe is perfect as written but these additions can make it feel new again.
- Try swapping in gruyere for a nuttier sophisticated flavor
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the chicken mixture
- A dash of hot sauce in the chicken mixture wakes everything up
Save Hope this sandwich brings as much comfort to your table as it has to mine.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of chicken works best for this sandwich?
Shredded rotisserie or poached chicken breast offers tender and flavorful meat perfect for layering.
- → Can I substitute the bread used in this sandwich?
Sourdough or country-style bread provides a sturdy base, but any hearty bread works to hold the fillings.
- → How do I get the shallots crispy?
Use store-bought fried shallots for convenience or fry thinly sliced shallots in oil until golden and crisp.
- → What cheeses are recommended for melting?
Sharp cheddar and mozzarella melt smoothly, offering a balanced sharpness and creamy texture.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the sandwich?
Incorporate thin slices of tomato or pickles for added freshness and tanginess.
- → What is the best cooking method for this sandwich?
Cook on a medium-heated skillet or griddle, pressing gently for even browning and melted cheese.