Chicken Sandwiches: Best Cheese Pairings And Flavor Combos

The question of whether cheese belongs on a fried chicken sandwich is a highly contested topic. Some people believe that a fried chicken sandwich is sacred and that adding cheese is blasphemous. Others believe that cheese enhances the flavour of the sandwich and that it belongs on a chicken sandwich. There are many different types of cheese that can be added to a chicken sandwich, such as American cheese, provolone, cheddar, pepper jack, habanero cheddar, Swiss cheese, mozzarella, gouda, and brie. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to add cheese to a chicken sandwich is a matter of personal preference.

Characteristics of the type of cheese that goes with a chicken sandwich

Melty cheese options

When it comes to melty cheese options for a chicken sandwich, there are several varieties that can take your sandwich to the next level. Here are some popular choices:

Provolone

Provolone is a mild, creamy, and slightly tangy Italian cheese that pairs perfectly with chicken. It has a smooth, soft texture that melts beautifully, making it an excellent choice for a grilled chicken sandwich. Its mellow flavour won't overpower the other ingredients, but it will add a nice, subtle kick.

Mozzarella

Mozzarella is another mild cheese that is known for its stretchy, melty texture. It is a popular choice for sandwiches as it adds a nice, gooey factor without being too salty or overpowering. It pairs well with other ingredients such as tomatoes and basil, so consider adding those to your sandwich for a delicious caprese-inspired bite.

Cheddar

Cheddar is a versatile cheese that comes in a range of strengths, from mild to extra sharp. For a chicken sandwich, a mild or medium cheddar is a great option as it will add a creamy texture and a slightly sharp flavour without being too pungent. Cheddar melts well and can also be mixed with other cheeses like gouda for an extra gooey factor.

American Cheese

American cheese is a classic choice for a chicken sandwich, especially if you're going for that traditional, comforting taste. It melts easily and has a mild, creamy flavour that won't overwhelm the other ingredients. It's a good option if you want a simple, no-fuss cheese that will still add a nice, smooth texture to your sandwich.

Pepper Jack

If you're looking to add a little kick to your chicken sandwich, pepper jack is an excellent choice. It has a spicy, pungent flavour and a creamy texture that melts well. It's a great option if you want to add some heat to your sandwich, especially if you're already incorporating spicy ingredients like jalapeños or hot sauce.

Brie

For a more indulgent option, brie is a soft, creamy cheese that melts beautifully. It has a rich, buttery flavour and a smooth texture that can elevate your chicken sandwich. It pairs well with sweet and savoury ingredients, so consider adding some honey or fruit preserves to your sandwich for a unique, mouthwatering combination.

Creamy, mild cheeses

When it comes to crafting the perfect chicken sandwich, cheese is a key ingredient that can elevate this classic to new heights. For those who prefer their sandwiches creamy and mild, there are several delicious options to choose from.

A good place to start is with the ever-popular American cheese. This variety is known for its mild flavour and creamy texture, making it a versatile choice that pairs well with a range of other ingredients. It's also a favourite of many chefs, including Tom Henneman of Federal Donuts, who uses it in their much-loved chicken sandwich.

Provolone is another excellent option for those seeking a creamy, mild cheese. This variety has a slightly nutty flavour and a smooth, rich texture that can take your sandwich to the next level. It's also a favourite for grilled cheese sandwiches, as it melts beautifully.

For a slightly sharper flavour, without veering into overpowering territory, consider cheddar. This crowd-pleasing cheese is a safe bet and comes in a range of mild to sharp varieties, so you can choose the strength that suits your taste. It's also a great melting cheese, making it perfect for that gooey, stringy cheese pull factor.

If you're feeling a little more adventurous, you could try a Swiss cheese like Gruyère. This variety has a mild, slightly sweet flavour and a smooth, creamy texture. It's a popular choice for sandwiches as it's not too salty and won't overwhelm the other ingredients.

Finally, for a truly indulgent option, consider Brie. This French cheese is known for its rich, creamy texture and subtle flavour. It's a double cream cheese, so it will definitely add a luxurious mouthfeel to your sandwich.

When crafting your chicken sandwich, remember to consider the other ingredients and how they'll pair with your chosen cheese. Experiment with different combinations of toppings, sauces, and breads to find your perfect match.

Spicy cheese options

Spicy chicken sandwiches are a favourite for many, but the addition of cheese can be a controversial topic. Some say that cheese has no place on a spicy chicken sandwich, while others argue that it adds a layer of flavour and helps to cut through the heat. If you're in the latter camp, here are some spicy cheese options to consider:

Pepper Jack

A combination of Monterey Jack and spicy peppers, this cheese is not for the faint-hearted. It has a bold, spicy flavour that will add a kick to your chicken sandwich. Those who enjoy a good melt will also appreciate Pepper Jack, as it glides smoothly over your sandwich fillings, resulting in a gooey, spicy treat.

Smoked Gouda

If you're looking for a cheese with a punch of intense flavour, smoked Gouda is a perfect choice. This semi-hard cheese is smoked in ancient brick ovens over flaming hickory chip embers, resulting in a delectably smooth and creamy texture. Its smoky, caramel-like flavour is simply irresistible and offers a sense of depth to your chicken sandwich. Pair it with a spicy chicken filling to balance the heat and create an unforgettable flavour profile.

Colby Jack

Colby Jack is a classic American cheese that can add a nice kick to your spicy chicken sandwich. It has a mild, buttery flavour with just a hint of spice, so it won't overpower the other ingredients. Colby Jack melts well and is a good choice if you're looking for that gooey, cheesy texture.

Provolone

Provolone is a semi-firm cheese that originates from Italy. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavour, similar to cheddar, but with a milder taste. This cheese melts easily and holds its shape, making it an excellent choice for grilled chicken sandwiches. Its mild flavour allows it to be paired with various types of breads and fillings, so you can get creative with your sandwich combinations.

Feta

Feta cheese is a traditional Greek cheese that is crumbly and has a strong salty flavour. It is commonly made with sheep's milk, but modern versions often mix in cow's milk. Feta adds a layer of complexity to any sandwich with its distinct taste profile. It pairs exceptionally well with poultry sandwiches and can be used sparingly, making it a potent and tangy addition to your spicy chicken sandwich.

Best cheeses for a fried chicken sandwich

The fried chicken sandwich is a sacred object of culinary delight for some, and a delicious meal for others. But what type of cheese should you use?

American Cheese

A classic fried chicken sandwich with a slice of American cheese is a combination that some chefs swear by. The cheese is melted just enough to coat the chicken, adding a creamy texture and a boost of flavour. It is a safe bet that won't overpower the other ingredients.

Pimento Cheese

Pimento cheese, made with extra sharp cheddar and smoked cheddar, is a popular choice for fried chicken sandwiches. The sharpness of the cheddar cuts through the sandwich, adding a distinctive flavour.

Pepper Jack

For those who like a little spice, pepper jack cheese is a great option. It adds a kick to the sandwich and goes well with other spicy ingredients like jalapeños.

Mozzarella

Mozzarella is a good melting cheese, providing that perfect gooey texture. It is mild and creamy, so it won't overwhelm the other flavours in the sandwich.

Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is a versatile option for a fried chicken sandwich. It has a mild, slightly nutty flavour and melts well, adding a creamy texture.

Blue Cheese

Blue cheese is a strong and pungent option that adds a unique flavour to the sandwich. It pairs well with other ingredients like caramelised onions, arugula, and tomatoes.

In conclusion, the best cheese for a fried chicken sandwich depends on personal preference and the desired end product. Experimenting with different cheeses, breads, and sauces can lead to a unique and delicious combination.

Chicken sandwich with multiple cheeses

There are many ways to make a delicious chicken sandwich with multiple types of cheese. The key to a good chicken sandwich is to ensure the bread is toasted, the chicken is moist, and the toppings are balanced.

For a classic take on a chicken sandwich, opt for mild, creamy cheeses such as American, provolone, or cheddar. These cheeses add flavour without being overpowering. To take your sandwich to the next level, try a spicy cheese like pepper jack or habanero cheddar. If you're feeling indulgent, go for a gooey, melty cheese like mozzarella or gouda.

For a truly decadent sandwich, try a grilled cheese chicken sandwich. Start by buttering the outside of two slices of bread, preferably a sturdy variety like sourdough or brioche. Spread aioli sauce on the inside of the bread, then layer on sliced cheese, followed by chicken, bacon, tomato, and another layer of cheese. Top it off with the second slice of bread, buttered-side up. Grill the sandwich in a skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side, applying pressure with a spatula to ensure even cooking and melty cheese.

If you're feeling adventurous, try a combination of three cheeses like the Buxton Hall Barbecue sandwich. This sandwich features American cheese, pimiento cheese, and smoked cheddar, creating a creamy and flavourful experience.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, breads, and toppings to find your perfect combination. You can also add extra veggies like caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms, and try different sauces like BBQ, chipotle, or ranch.

Remember, the key to a great chicken sandwich is balancing the flavours and textures, so have fun creating your own unique masterpiece!

Frequently asked questions