Pin Recipe Elevate your lunch routine with this Goat Cheese & Hot Honey Chicken Grilled Cheese. This gourmet sandwich takes the comfort of a classic grilled cheese and adds sophisticated layers of flavor, combining creamy, tangy goat cheese with hearty shredded chicken and a signature sweet-heat finish. Wrapped in buttery, golden sourdough, it is a perfectly balanced meal that feels special yet remains incredibly simple to prepare.
Pin Recipe The secret to this sandwich lies in the homemade hot honey drizzle. By infusing honey with red chili flakes, you create a complex glaze that cuts through the richness of the cheese and the savory notes of the chicken. Whether you are serving this for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend brunch, it is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients
- Bread & Cheese: 4 slices sourdough bread and 4 oz (115 g) softened goat cheese.
- Chicken: 1 cup (140 g) cooked chicken breast, shredded.
- Hot Honey: 2 tbsp honey and ½–1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste).
- Additional: 2 tbsp softened unsalted butter (for grilling), plus salt and black pepper to taste.
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare Hot Honey
- In a small bowl, combine the honey and red chili flakes. Set this aside to let the flavors meld.
- Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Lay out the sourdough slices on a clean surface. Spread the softened goat cheese evenly across one side of each slice.
- Step 3: Assemble the Filling
- Divide the shredded chicken between two of the slices. Drizzle the chicken with the prepared hot honey and season lightly with salt and black pepper.
- Step 4: Close the Sandwiches
- Place the remaining bread slices on top, cheese-side down, to close the sandwiches.
- Step 5: Butter the Exterior
- Spread the softened butter evenly on the outside of both sandwiches.
- Step 6: Grill to Perfection
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing down gently, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melty.
- Step 7: Serve
- Remove from heat, slice in half, and finish with an extra drizzle of hot honey if desired. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the best texture, ensure your goat cheese is properly softened before spreading to avoid tearing the sourdough. Use medium heat on your stovetop; this allows the bread to crisp up slowly and the cheese to soften thoroughly without burning the exterior.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you prefer a more traditional flavor, you can swap the goat cheese for cream cheese or a mild mozzarella. For those who enjoy extra heat, feel free to add a dash of hot sauce to the honey mixture or double the amount of red chili flakes.
Serviervorschläge
This sandwich is best enjoyed alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a warm bowl of tomato soup. The acidity of a salad or the richness of the soup balances the sweet and spicy notes of the grilled cheese perfectly.
Pin Recipe
With its irresistible combination of textures and the bold kick of hot honey, this sandwich proves that gourmet cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy your crispy, melty creation while it's hot!
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes hot honey special?
Hot honey combines the natural sweetness of honey with spicy chili flakes, creating a sweet-heat condiment that perfectly cuts through rich cheeses and adds complexity to savory dishes.
- → Can I use different bread?
While sourdough provides the best tangy flavor and sturdy texture, you can substitute with ciabatta, French bread, or even thick-cut country bread for equally delicious results.
- → How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Ensure your goat cheese is at room temperature for smooth spreading, and don't over-drizzle the hot honey inside the sandwich. Save extra honey for drizzling on top after grilling.
- → What cheese alternatives work well?
Cream cheese offers a milder flavor, while mozzarella provides excellent melt. Brie or fontina would create an equally gourmet experience with different flavor profiles.
- → Can I make this ahead?
You can prepare the hot honey and shred the chicken in advance. Assemble just before cooking for the crispiest results, as pre-assembled sandwiches may become soggy.
- → What pairs well with this sandwich?
A simple arugula salad with vinaigrette cuts the richness, or serve alongside tomato soup for a classic comforting meal combination.