If you are looking for a delicious comfort food mash-up that will instantly become a weeknight favorite, this Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the crispy, herby chicken parmesan with melty mozzarella and buttery grilled bread, each bite delivers a perfect harmony of classic Italian flavors and gooey, toasty satisfaction. It’s a fun twist on two beloved dishes that is simple to make yet absolutely indulgent—a treat you’ll want to share with everyone at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a key role in layering flavors and textures from crispy chicken to creamy cheese and rich tomato sauce.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Pounded thin for quick, even cooking that stays juicy inside.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Adds tangy, herby moisture that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that iconic stringy, cheesy pull.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, nutty flavor that intensifies the Italian vibe.
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs: For that crispy, golden coating that makes each bite irresistible.
- 1/4 cup flour: Helps the breading stick to the chicken and creates a light crust.
- 1 large egg (beaten): Acts as a glue for the breading mixture, ensuring every crumb stays put.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with warm, savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a classic Italian herbaceous aroma.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Enhances the flavor profile with fragrant sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and heighten all the flavors.
- 8 slices of your favorite bread: Italian, sourdough, or sandwich bread work well for crisp, buttery toasts.
- 4 tablespoons butter (softened): For grilling the sandwiches to a golden brown perfection.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps the skillet hot and adds richness to the chicken crust.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Flatten and Season the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken breasts between plastic wrap or parchment paper, then gently pound them to about half an inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and stay tender. Once flattened, season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil. These herbs and spices build a robust base flavor that shines through after cooking.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station and Coat the Chicken
Prepare three shallow dishes: flour in the first, beaten egg in the second, and a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese in the third. Dredge each chicken breast in flour first, knocking off any excess, then dip into the egg, and finally press firmly into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix. This triple coating creates that signature crispy crust that makes this Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe so comforting.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the pan, cooking for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Look for a deep golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness. Let the chicken rest briefly before slicing into strips—that way, all the juices stay locked in.
Step 4: Build Your Sandwiches
Lay out your bread slices and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on one side of each. On half of the slices, arrange sliced chicken, a little more marinara, shredded mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Then cover with the remaining bread slices, sauce side down, forming your sandwiches. The layering here is where the magic of the Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe comes alive.
Step 5: Grill to Melty, Golden Goodness
Butter the outside of each sandwich generously on both sides. Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat, then add the sandwiches. Grill for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the bread is beautifully toasted and the cheese inside has melted into luscious gooeyness. This step is pure joy—the smell alone will make your mouth water!
Step 6: Slice and Serve Immediately
Once grilled, remove the sandwiches from the pan and let them rest for a minute to set the cheese slightly. Then slice each sandwich in half. Serve hot with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping, completing the ultimate taste experience.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
For a vibrant touch, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top just before serving. You can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. These garnishes brighten the dish visually and elevate every bite with fresh or spicy accents.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette or crispy garlic roasted potatoes. For an extra indulgence, serve with a bowl of warm tomato soup which beautifully echoes the marinara sauce in the sandwich.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the sandwiches open-faced with melted cheese under the broiler for a gorgeous bubbly top, or cut into smaller sliders for a party platter. You can even sprinkle extra Parmesan on the bread’s crust before grilling for an cheesy crust upgrade that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. It’s best to keep the extra marinara sauce separate, so the bread stays crispier when reheated.
Freezing
Wrap the unopened sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a lid on to help the cheese melt evenly without drying out the bread. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the sandwich crispy and melty as intended by this Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely, using pre-cooked chicken can speed up the process, but make sure it’s flavorful and moist since the breading step won’t add as much crispness as with raw chicken.
What bread is best for Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe?
Italian, sourdough, or any sturdy sandwich bread work best because they hold up well against the sauce and grilling without becoming soggy.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with breaded eggplant slices for a delicious vegetarian alternative that still captures the essence of chicken parmesan.
How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Be sure to spread a thin layer of sauce and use sturdy bread. Buttering and grilling crisp the bread to seal in moisture and keep the sandwich from becoming soggy during cooking.
Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead and keep refrigerated, then grill just before serving to enjoy that perfect golden crust fresh and hot.
Final Thoughts
There is something so utterly satisfying about this Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe that makes it a winner every single time. The combination of crispy, cheesy, and saucy elements creates a sandwich experience that’s both nostalgic and excitingly new. I really hope you take a little time to try this at home—it’s comfort food that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make, guaranteed to warm up any meal or mood.
Print
Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a delicious twist combining crispy breaded chicken, classic marinara, and melted mozzarella cheese sandwiched between buttery toasted bread. This hearty and comforting sandwich recipe brings together Italian flavors in a satisfying grilled cheese perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Breading Station
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Sandwich
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 slices of bread (Italian, sourdough, or sandwich bread)
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Flatten the chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thickness using plastic wrap and a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil.
- Bread the Chicken: Set up three shallow dishes: flour, beaten egg, and a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken breast first in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove and let rest, then slice into strips.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on one side of each bread slice. Layer half of the slices with sliced chicken, additional marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Top with the remaining bread slices, marinara side down.
- Grill the Sandwiches: Butter the outside of each sandwich on both sides. Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grill sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
- Serve: Remove from skillet and cool briefly. Slice each sandwich in half and serve immediately with extra marinara sauce for dipping if desired.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- For extra crispiness, you can double coat the chicken by repeating egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Butter the bread generously to get a golden, crunchy crust when grilling.
- Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese for variation.
- Serve with a side salad or chips for a complete meal.
