Chicken Sandwiches: Best Cheese Pairings For A Tasty Bite

Whether it's a sacred object of culinary worship or simply a delicious meal, people have strong opinions about their fried chicken sandwiches. One of the most controversial topics is whether or not to include cheese. For those who do, the next question is: what type of cheese should you use? There are many options to choose from, and the decision ultimately depends on personal preference. Some popular choices include American cheese, provolone, Swiss cheese, and Pepper Jack cheese. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even try a combination of multiple cheeses!

Characteristics of Cheese for a Chicken Sandwich

Blue cheese, provolone, or mild cheddar are all good options for a chicken sandwich

Blue cheese, provolone, or mild cheddar are all excellent choices for a chicken sandwich. Each of these cheeses has its own distinct flavour and texture, which can elevate a simple chicken sandwich into something truly special.

Blue cheese, for example, is known for its strong, tangy flavour and creamy texture. When paired with chicken, it can add a nice punch of flavour without being overwhelming. Provolone, on the other hand, is a mild and slightly sweet cheese with a creamy texture that melts beautifully on top of chicken. It's a great choice if you're looking for something that will enhance your sandwich without taking over. Mild cheddar is another excellent option, as its slightly sharp flavour and smooth texture can add depth and creaminess to your sandwich.

You can also get creative and experiment with different combinations of these cheeses to find your perfect match. For instance, you could try a mix of cream cheese and blue cheese, topped with a slice of mild cheddar or provolone. This way, you'll get the best of both worlds—the creaminess of the milder cheeses and the extra flavour kick from the blue cheese.

Don't be afraid to play around with different types of bread and toppings as well. A brioche bun or Texas toast can add a nice touch of indulgence, while toppings like bacon, avocado, or caramelised onions can take your sandwich to the next level. So, go ahead and get grilling—your perfect chicken sandwich awaits!

For a spicy kick, try Pepper Jack cheese

Pepper Jack cheese is a type of Monterey Jack cheese with spicy peppers added, giving it a unique and pungent taste. It's a natural choice for chicken sandwiches as the spice complements the chicken perfectly. The cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey, indulgent texture that takes your sandwich to the next level.

If you're making a chicken sandwich with bacon, Pepper Jack cheese is an excellent pairing. The saltiness of the bacon goes well with the spicy cheese, and the combination adds a wonderful depth of flavour to the sandwich. You can also add some dill pickles to the sandwich for a refreshing crunch that balances out the spice.

For an extra spicy kick, try drizzling some hot honey over the chicken before topping it with the Pepper Jack cheese. This combination of sweet and spicy will tantalise your taste buds and keep you coming back for more. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as brioche or onion buns, to find the perfect pairing for your spicy chicken and cheese creation.

So, if you're looking to add some spice to your chicken sandwich, Pepper Jack cheese is an excellent choice. It's a versatile cheese that can be paired with a variety of ingredients to create a unique and mouthwatering sandwich experience.

A combination of cream cheese and blue cheese adds a gourmet touch

There are many options to consider when choosing the cheese for your chicken sandwich. A combination of cream cheese and blue cheese adds a gourmet touch. This combination of cheeses is a great way to elevate your sandwich and impress your guests.

The cream cheese and blue cheese mixture creates a unique and indulgent texture that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The creaminess of the cream cheese is enhanced by the addition of blue cheese, which brings a distinct and pungent flavour. This combination is a perfect base for your sandwich and can be further enhanced by adding other ingredients.

To make the perfect creamy chicken and blue cheese sandwich, start by cooking and shredding your chicken. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with garlic powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, hot sauce, mayonnaise, and sour cream. In a separate bowl, combine equal parts of cream cheese and blue cheese. Spread the cheese mixture on one slice of bread, and the chicken mixture on the other. Close the sandwich and lightly coat the outside with mayonnaise. Grill for 2 minutes on each side and serve with your favourite sides.

This sandwich is a delicious and indulgent treat. The cream cheese and blue cheese combination is a perfect balance of creamy and flavourful, creating a gourmet sandwich that is sure to satisfy. You can further customise this sandwich to your taste by choosing your preferred type of bread and adding extra ingredients like sliced cheese, pickles, or fresh fruit salad on the side.

For a classic, simple sandwich, opt for American cheese

American cheese is a versatile option that can be used in a range of chicken sandwich recipes. For example, you could pair it with bacon, salami, or avocado. It also works well with a variety of breads, from brioche buns to Texas toast.

If you're making a grilled chicken sandwich, American cheese is an excellent choice. Its melting properties will give your sandwich a delicious, gooey texture. Simply add a slice of American cheese to your cooked chicken and place it in a grill pan until the cheese is melted to your liking.

You can also get creative with your toppings and condiments to enhance the flavour of the American cheese. Try adding some spicy mayo or a tangy pickle for a burst of flavour. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even experiment with different types of bread to find your perfect combination.

American cheese is a great go-to option for a chicken sandwich. Its mild flavour, melting properties, and versatility make it a popular choice for those seeking a classic, comforting meal. So, the next time you're craving a simple yet satisfying sandwich, reach for the American cheese and get creative!

If you're feeling fancy, go for Raclette—a type of Swiss cheese

When crafting your Raclette chicken sandwich, consider the other components carefully to create a harmonious flavour combination. Start with a sturdy, toasted bun—a brioche bun or a classic white bread roll could be a good choice. Layer on some crisp lettuce, sliced tomato, and perhaps a few pickles for a tangy crunch.

Now, for the chicken. A seared or grilled chicken breast is a good option, seasoned simply with salt and pepper to let the Raclette shine. Alternatively, you could go for a shredded or sliced chicken preparation, giving your sandwich a more rustic, hearty texture. If you're feeling adventurous, a smear of hot honey or a drizzle of spicy mayo could take your sandwich to the next level.

Finally, the Raclette. If you can source a block, try slicing it thinly and layering it onto the chicken while it's still warm, allowing the cheese to melt slightly and envelop the other ingredients in its creamy embrace. If you can only find Raclette in its pre-melted form, don't despair—spread a generous amount onto the bun or chicken, and you'll still get that signature creamy mouthfeel.

Top with the other half of the bun, and your fancy Raclette chicken sandwich is ready to enjoy! This indulgent creation is perfect for a special treat or a gourmet picnic. So, while there are many excellent options for cheese on a chicken sandwich, Raclette is a clear choice if you're seeking something a little more luxurious and distinctive.

Frequently asked questions