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
Scale
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.
