Save to Pinterest My roommate came home with leftover butter chicken from last night's dinner order, and I was staring into the fridge wondering what to do with it. Then it hit me—why not treat it like a filling for a grilled cheese? The result was so unexpectedly good that I've made this fusion sandwich at least once a week since. The warm spices meet melted cheese in a way that feels both indulgent and somehow perfect.
I made this for my friends during a casual Sunday afternoon, and they actually fought over the last quarter. One of them literally asked if I could start meal prepping these, which was the highest compliment I could get. Since then, it's become my go-to move when I need to impress people without spending hours cooking.
Ingredients
- Cooked butter chicken: Use about 1 cup with the sauce included—that creamy, spiced layer is what makes this work.
- Fresh cilantro: Optional but recommended; it adds brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Sturdy bread: White or sourdough both work, but avoid soft sandwich bread that'll fall apart under pressure.
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup shredded gives you that classic melt, but don't skimp on the amount.
- Sharp cheddar: ½ cup balances the mozzarella with a bit of tang and depth.
- Softened butter: 2 tablespoons total—having it softened makes spreading even and effortless.
Instructions
- Warm your filling:
- If the butter chicken is cold from the fridge, gently heat it in a skillet or microwave just until warm to the touch. Stir in the cilantro if you're using it—this keeps everything cohesive when you assemble the sandwich.
- Prepare the bread:
- Lay all four slices out on your cutting board. Spread a thin, even layer of softened butter on one side of each slice; this is what creates that golden, crispy exterior.
- Layer the cheese base:
- Place two slices buttered-side down on a clean surface. Divide half the mozzarella and cheddar between them, creating an even layer on each slice.
- Add the chicken:
- Spread the warm butter chicken evenly over the cheese on each slice, being careful not to oversaturate any one spot. Top with the remaining cheese mixture so it melts right into the chicken.
- Seal the sandwich:
- Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered-side up. You now have two complete sandwiches ready for the pan.
- Grill to golden perfection:
- Heat your nonstick skillet over medium heat—not too high or the outside will burn before the cheese melts inside. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with your spatula as they cook so the cheese melds together.
- Rest and serve:
- Transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board and let them sit for 1 to 2 minutes; this lets the cheese set just enough to hold together when you slice. Cut diagonally if you want that café-style presentation, then serve while still hot.
Save to Pinterest There's something almost meditative about watching the bread turn golden under gentle heat while the cheese inside softens into this creamy, spiced mass. It stopped being just dinner and became the sandwich I crave when life feels complicated.
Flavor Upgrades
The base recipe is already incredible, but small additions can push it in different directions depending on your mood. Red onions add a sharp, crisp contrast that balances the richness beautifully, while jalapeños bring genuine heat that wakes up your palate. I've also tucked fresh spinach under the cheese and added a tiny drizzle of mango chutney, which sounds weird until you taste it.
Cheese Swaps and Bread Choices
While the mozzarella and cheddar combination is my blueprint, provolone delivers a nuttier flavor that plays well with the spices, and gouda brings this gentle smokiness that feels almost luxurious. Sourdough bread gives you a tangier backdrop compared to plain white, which is especially nice if you're adding cilantro or fresh vegetables. Don't feel locked into these options; the sandwich format is forgiving enough to let you experiment with what you have on hand.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
This sandwich is substantial enough to stand alone, but it genuinely shines alongside something cool and bright that cuts through the richness. I always serve mine with cucumber raita on the side, which feels like the natural partner given the Indian roots of the butter chicken. A simple green salad, some sliced tomatoes with a pinch of salt, or even leftover mango lassi all work beautifully as companions.
- Try pairing with a cold, crisp beer or an iced chai latte if you want to match the flavor profile.
- Cucumber raita or tzatziki brings cooling relief and helps digest all that wonderful richness.
- A side of pickle or chutney ties the whole meal together and adds textural contrast.
Save to Pinterest This sandwich reminds me why fusion cooking works so well—it takes the best from each culture and creates something that feels entirely new. Make it once, and it'll become one of those lazy-day staples you return to again and again.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use leftover butter chicken?
Yes, gently reheat leftover butter chicken before assembling to maintain moisture and flavor.
- → Which cheeses work best for this dish?
Mozzarella and sharp cheddar melt well and balance creaminess with tang; provolone or gouda are great alternatives.
- → How do I prevent the bread from burning?
Cook on medium heat and press gently; use softened butter for even browning without burning.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, thinly sliced red onions or jalapeños add crunch and spice; fresh cilantro adds brightness.
- → What side dishes pair well?
Light sides like cucumber raita or a green salad complement the rich, savory flavors perfectly.