Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

What happens when you combine the rich, comforting flavors of Chicken Parmesan with the gooey, melty goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich? You get the ultimate comfort food mash-up: Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese! This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re craving something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious sandwich that’s crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and bursting with the savory flavors of Chicken Parmesan.

Recipe Summary

This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a mouthwatering fusion of two beloved comfort foods. Tender chicken, marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella are sandwiched between slices of buttery, golden bread, creating a quick and easy meal that’s satisfying and full of flavor. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a late-night snack, this sandwich delivers all the goodness of Chicken Parmesan without the hassle.

Story

Chicken Parmesan is a classic, but let’s be honest—sometimes you just don’t have the time or energy to go all out with the breading, frying, and baking. That’s where this grilled cheese version comes in. I love making these sandwiches on a lazy Sunday afternoon when I want something indulgent but easy. My family was skeptical at first, but once they took a bite, they were hooked. Now, it’s a go-to recipe whenever we want a quick, comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Selling Points

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: Combines the best of Chicken Parmesan and grilled cheese in one delicious sandwich.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this fun and tasty twist on a classic.

How to Make Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by pre-cooking the chicken breast (if not using leftovers). Shred or slice it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Lay out your bread slices. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on one side of each slice. Top one slice with shredded mozzarella, followed by the cooked chicken, and then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Place the second slice of bread on top, marinara side down.
3. Butter and Season: Spread softened butter on the outside of both slices of bread. Sprinkle with a little garlic powder for extra flavor, if desired.
4. Cook the Sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
5. Serve: Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool slightly. Cut in half and serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like.

Tips

• Use Leftovers: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken or marinara sauce.
• Extra Crispy: For an extra crispy crust, sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on the outside of the buttered bread before grilling.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.

Substitutions and Variations

• Different Cheese: Try using provolone or fontina for a different flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make this sandwich gluten-free.
• Add Veggies: Include some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

Make a Healthier Version

• Lower Calorie Option: Use whole wheat bread, low-fat mozzarella, and reduced-fat butter to lighten up the sandwich.
• Grill Without Butter: For a healthier alternative, you can use a non-stick pan and grill the sandwich without butter.

Closing

This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mash-up, perfect for when you’re craving something hearty and cheesy but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Whether it’s for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or a midnight snack, this sandwich is sure to hit the spot. Give it a try and enjoy the best of both worlds!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken works great in this recipe.
2. What’s the best bread to use? Italian bread, ciabatta, or sourdough are all excellent choices. Use what you have on hand or what you prefer.
3. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance and assemble the sandwich just before cooking.
4. How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat in a skillet over low heat to keep the bread crispy, or use a toaster oven.
5. Can I add other toppings? Definitely! Pepperoni, sautéed onions, or roasted red peppers would be delicious additions.
6. Is there a vegetarian version? Yes, replace the chicken with breaded eggplant slices or a veggie burger patty.
7. How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out? Don’t overstuff the sandwich, and make sure the skillet isn’t too hot to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts.
8. Can I make this in a panini press? Yes, a panini press works perfectly for this recipe and gives a nice, even crisp.
9. What can I serve with this sandwich? A side salad, some roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of soup would complement this sandwich nicely.
10. Can I freeze this sandwich? It’s not recommended to freeze the sandwich, but you can freeze the cooked chicken and use it when you’re ready to make the sandwich.

Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Recipe by Alexandra

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: All Word Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• 2 slices 2 your favorite bread (Italian, sourdough, or ciabatta work well)

• 1/2 cup 1/2 cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced

• 1/4 cup 1/4 marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1/2 cup 1/2 shredded mozzarella cheese

• 2 tbsp 2 grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp 2 unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 tsp 1/2 garlic powder (optional)

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Prepare the Ingredients: Start by pre-cooking the chicken breast (if not using leftovers). Shred or slice it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
• Assemble the Sandwich: Lay out your bread slices. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on one side of each slice. Top one slice with shredded mozzarella, followed by the cooked chicken, and then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Place the second slice of bread on top, marinara side down.
• Butter and Season: Spread softened butter on the outside of both slices of bread. Sprinkle with a little garlic powder for extra flavor, if desired.
• Cook the Sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
• Serve: Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool slightly. Cut in half and serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like.

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