Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a perfect combination of speed, ease, and flavor. It’s made with a handful of ingredients that come together to create a warm, cheesy sandwich that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how customizable it is based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re using leftover chicken, a store-bought breaded chicken patty, or mixing in extra ingredients, this sandwich is sure to become a go-to comfort meal.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread (Italian or sourdough recommended)
- 1 cooked breaded chicken patty or leftover chicken Parmesan
- 2 slices of mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter (softened)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place one slice of bread, butter side down, on the skillet.
- Layer with one slice of mozzarella cheese, the chicken patty, marinara sauce, and the second slice of mozzarella cheese.
- Top with the second slice of bread, butter side up.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 1 sandwich
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Healthier option: Use whole-grain bread and grilled chicken for a lighter version.
- Add herbs: Fresh basil or a sprinkle of garlic powder can add extra flavor.
- Cheese upgrade: Add provolone or Parmesan cheese for extra cheesiness.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce to spice things up.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: While this sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over low heat and cover with a lid to warm through without burning the bread.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of a breaded patty?
Yes, you can use grilled or baked chicken. Simply slice or shred it and coat it with marinara sauce before assembling the sandwich.
What kind of bread works best for this sandwich?
Sourdough, ciabatta, or Italian bread work great. Choose a hearty bread that can handle the fillings without getting soggy.
Can I make this sandwich without marinara sauce?
Yes, you can skip the marinara sauce or substitute it with another sauce like pesto or Alfredo for a different twist.
Can I freeze the assembled sandwich?
It’s not recommended to freeze the entire sandwich, but you can freeze the chicken and bread components separately, then assemble and cook when ready.
Can I make this sandwich in the oven instead of a skillet?
Yes, you can bake the sandwich at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
What type of cheese can I use besides mozzarella?
Provolone, cheddar, or fontina are good alternatives that melt well and pair nicely with chicken Parmesan flavors.
Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with breaded eggplant or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?
Use thicker slices of bread and be sure to not overload the sandwich with too much marinara sauce.
Can I add extra toppings like veggies or bacon?
Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, or crispy bacon would make delicious additions to this sandwich.
How can I make this sandwich spicier?
You can sprinkle red pepper flakes in the marinara sauce or add a dash of hot sauce inside the sandwich before grilling.
Conclusion
The Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a quick and satisfying meal that brings all the flavors of chicken Parmesan into a convenient sandwich. With minimal ingredients and an easy cooking process, this recipe is perfect for busy nights or when you’re in the mood for something comforting and delicious. You can customize it with various toppings, sauces, and cheeses, making it as versatile as it is tasty. Enjoy this cheesy, golden delight whenever you’re craving a simple yet indulgent meal.
PrintChicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
The Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese combines the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan into a quick and easy grilled cheese sandwich. With tender chicken, melted mozzarella, marinara sauce, and crispy, buttery bread, this comforting meal is perfect for busy nights or whenever you’re craving something delicious with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 5min
- Cook Time: 10min
- Total Time: 15min
- Yield: 1sandwish
- Category: Sandwich, Lunch
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread (Italian or sourdough recommended)
- 1 cooked breaded chicken patty or leftover chicken Parmesan
- 2 slices of mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter (softened)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place one slice of bread, butter side down, on the skillet.
- Layer with one slice of mozzarella cheese, the chicken patty, marinara sauce, and the second slice of mozzarella cheese.
- Top with the second slice of bread, butter side up.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use whole-grain bread and grilled chicken.
- Add fresh basil or garlic powder for extra flavor.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle some hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
