Chili Crisp Honey Chicken Cheese (Printable)

A bold, sweet-spicy grilled cheese with honey chili crisp chicken and gooey cheese layers in buttery sourdough.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
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 black pepper

→ Sandwiches

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)

# Directions:

01 - Combine shredded chicken, honey, chili crisp, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly until evenly coated. Set aside.
02 - In a separate bowl, blend shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese.
03 - Lay out bread slices and spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice. If desired, spread mayonnaise on the opposite side for additional crispness.
04 - On the unbuttered side of half the bread slices, layer the cheese mixture, then the honey chili crisp chicken, and more cheese. Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side outward.
05 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet, cooking 3 to 4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula until the bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
06 - Remove sandwiches from the skillet and allow to cool slightly. Slice and serve with additional chili crisp, if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The honey and chili crisp create this sticky glazed situation that clings to every strand of chicken
  • Using both mozzarella and cheddar means you get the perfect marriage of melt and sharp flavor
02 -
  • Low and slow heat wins the race or you will burn the bread before the cheese melts
  • The chicken mixture can be made ahead and kept in the fridge for up to three days
03 -
  • Mayo on the outside sounds weird until you try it and realize it creates the most even golden crust
  • Do not overload with chicken or the cheese will not melt properly and you will have a structural disaster
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