A delicious twist on two comfort food classics, the Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich combines the rich, savory flavors of chicken Parmesan with the crispy, melty goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich. This dish is a perfect option for those looking to elevate their lunch or dinner with minimal effort. The crispy bread holds tender, seasoned chicken breast, gooey melted mozzarella, and a flavorful marinara sauce, making it a satisfying meal in every bite. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this cheesy, flavorful sandwich in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
To make the Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich, you will need a few key ingredients that come together to create the perfect combination of textures and flavors. Begin with two slices of sturdy bread, such as sourdough, that will hold up well during grilling. For the filling, shredded or sliced cooked chicken breast serves as the base, topped with marinara sauce, grated Parmesan cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese. These cheeses melt beautifully, creating a gooey, delicious filling that’s rich and savory. Olive oil or butter will be used to crisp up the bread and add an extra layer of flavor. Finally, a sprinkle of dried basil and garlic powder can be added for a burst of herbaceous flavor, though these are optional based on your preference.
Instructions
To start making the Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich, begin by preparing the chicken if it’s not already cooked. You can use leftover chicken or cook fresh chicken breasts, seasoning them with salt and pepper for flavor. Once cooked, shred or slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure that it fits perfectly in your sandwich and allows for even distribution of the flavors.
Next, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on one side of each slice of bread. Make sure to cover the entire surface, but don’t overdo it—too much sauce can make the sandwich soggy. Afterward, layer the shredded chicken evenly over the sauce on one slice of bread. This ensures that each bite has a good amount of chicken without overwhelming the other ingredients.
Once the chicken is layered, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the chicken. The Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor, while the mozzarella contributes to the gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience that we all love in grilled cheese sandwiches. For added flavor, you can sprinkle dried basil and garlic powder on top of the cheese. These ingredients are optional, but they bring a burst of flavor that complements the marinara and cheese.
Now, take the second slice of bread and place it, sauce side down, on top of the layered ingredients to form a sandwich. The sauce side of the bread should be in contact with the cheese and chicken mixture to prevent it from becoming too soggy during cooking.
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Allow the oil or butter to melt and heat up, making sure it covers the bottom of the skillet. If you prefer extra crispiness, you can add a little more oil or butter. Once the skillet is ready, place the sandwich into the pan. Use a spatula to press down gently on the sandwich, which helps ensure an even grill and that the cheese melts thoroughly. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
Once the first side is perfectly toasted, flip the sandwich over and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Pressing down gently during the flip helps the bread crisp up evenly. The sandwich should be golden brown and the cheese should be completely melted. If the bread is browning too quickly before the cheese is fully melted, you can reduce the heat slightly to allow more time for the cheese to melt without burning the bread.
When the sandwich is done, remove it from the skillet and let it cool for a minute or two before slicing it in half. This allows the cheese to set slightly, so you won’t lose all of it when you cut into the sandwich.
Tips
For the best Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich, use a hearty, sturdy bread like sourdough or Italian bread. These types of bread will hold up well during grilling and create the perfect crispy exterior. You can also use fresh, homemade marinara sauce if you prefer, or opt for your favorite store-bought variety. If you prefer more cheese, feel free to add extra mozzarella for an even gooier sandwich.
Additionally, for an extra burst of flavor, try using garlic butter instead of regular butter for grilling the sandwich. This will enhance the garlic flavor and make the sandwich even more decadent.
If you don’t have chicken breast on hand, you can easily substitute with rotisserie chicken or any other cooked chicken of your choice.
Serving Suggestions
The Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a satisfying meal on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a fresh salad, such as a simple Caesar salad, or a side of crispy fries for a classic comfort food combo. For a lighter option, pair it with roasted vegetables or a side of soup, like a tomato bisque, for dipping.
Storage
If you have leftover sandwiches, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat to keep the bread crispy. Alternatively, you can use a toaster oven to warm them up, which will help retain their crispy texture.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of bread for this sandwich?
Yes, you can use any type of bread you like, but sturdy bread like sourdough or Italian bread works best for grilling and holding the ingredients together.
Can I make this sandwich without marinara sauce?
While marinara sauce is a key ingredient for the classic Chicken Parmesan flavor, you can substitute it with a different sauce, like pesto or Alfredo sauce, for a different twist.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, is a great time-saving option and will still result in a delicious sandwich.
Conclusion
The Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a perfect blend of two beloved comfort foods. With tender chicken, gooey melted cheese, and crispy golden bread, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or a snack, this recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. Enjoy it on its own or with your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Print
Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Description
A hearty and flavorful sandwich featuring tender chicken breast, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella, all grilled between two crispy slices of sourdough for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Ingredients
• 2 slices sturdy bread (sourdough works well)
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced
• ½ cup marinara sauce
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• ½ teaspoon dried basil (optional)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook and shred or slice the chicken breast, seasoning it with salt and pepper.
2️⃣ Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on one side of each bread slice.
3️⃣ Layer the shredded chicken over the sauce on one slice of bread.
4️⃣ Sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses over the chicken, adding basil and garlic powder if desired.
5️⃣ Top with the other slice of bread, sauce side down.
6️⃣ Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil or butter.
7️⃣ Place the sandwich in the skillet, pressing down gently, and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8️⃣ Remove from the skillet, let cool slightly, slice, and serve hot.