Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Who doesn’t love a good grilled cheese sandwich? Crispy, buttery bread encasing warm, gooey cheese—it’s the ultimate comfort food. But what if you could take it up a notch by fusing it with another classic dish? That’s where the Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich comes in. This delicious creation combines the savory goodness of chicken parmesan with the cheesy, crispy perfection of grilled cheese. The result? A sandwich that’s indulgent, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.

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This recipe is perfect for when you want something easy and comforting but with a little more flair than your average sandwich. It’s great for using up leftover chicken, or you can cook a fresh batch just for this meal. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or even a weekend treat, this Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich is sure to hit the spot.

Let’s dive into the details of what makes this sandwich so irresistible and how you can make it at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. The magic happens when they come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients:

For the Sandwich:

• 2 slices of bread (sourdough recommended): For the ultimate grilled cheese, you want a bread that’s sturdy enough to hold all the fillings while still getting crispy when toasted. Sourdough is perfect for this, but feel free to use any type of bread you prefer—whether it’s white, whole wheat, or a French baguette.
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced: You can use leftover chicken or cook a fresh breast specifically for this sandwich. Shredded chicken works best because it distributes more evenly, but thin slices will do the trick too.
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce: The marinara sauce adds that essential tomato element, just like in a classic chicken parmesan dish. Use a store-bought sauce for convenience, or make your own for extra flavor.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan brings a salty, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the chicken and marinara sauce.
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella is a must for its creamy, melty texture. It helps bind the sandwich together while adding a delightful gooeyness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter: Either olive oil or butter will give the bread that crispy, golden finish when grilled. Butter is rich and flavorful, while olive oil offers a slightly lighter texture with a hint of fruitiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional): For an added layer of flavor, a sprinkle of dried basil gives the sandwich an extra Italian touch.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Garlic powder adds a subtle garlicky kick that complements the marinara and cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create a Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich that’s crispy on the outside, melty on the inside, and bursting with flavor.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you don’t already have cooked chicken on hand, now’s the time to make it. You can either:

• Cook a fresh chicken breast: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices, then cook it in a skillet over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding or slicing.
• Use leftover chicken: If you have leftover grilled or roasted chicken, simply shred or slice it into thin pieces for the sandwich. Leftovers work wonderfully in this recipe, making it an ideal option for repurposing last night’s dinner.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich

Once your chicken is ready, it’s time to build your sandwich.

• Spread marinara sauce: Take two slices of bread and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on one side of each slice. Be careful not to overdo it with the sauce, as too much can make the sandwich soggy. A light coating is all you need.
• Add the chicken: Layer the shredded or sliced chicken over the marinara sauce on one slice of bread. Make sure the chicken is evenly distributed to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
• Add the cheeses: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella over the chicken. The Parmesan adds a sharp, salty kick, while the mozzarella brings that essential melty, gooey texture we all love in grilled cheese.
• Season with basil and garlic powder (optional): For extra flavor, sprinkle a little dried basil and garlic powder over the cheese. These optional seasonings give the sandwich an additional depth of flavor, reminiscent of a classic chicken parmesan dish.
• Top with the second slice of bread: Place the second slice of bread on top, sauce-side down, to complete the sandwich.

Step 3: Cook the Sandwich

Now it’s time to grill your sandwich to golden perfection.

• Heat the skillet: Place a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the pan, letting it melt and coat the surface evenly. If you want a crispier crust, feel free to add more butter or oil.
• Grill the sandwich: Place the assembled sandwich in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Use a spatula to press down gently on the sandwich as it cooks to help everything meld together.Pro Tip: To ensure even cooking, cover the skillet with a lid for the first minute or two. This traps the heat and helps the cheese melt faster while still allowing the bread to crisp up.
• Flip and repeat: Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes, pressing down gently with the spatula to achieve a golden, crispy crust.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the sandwich is grilled to perfection, remove it from the skillet and let it cool for about a minute before slicing. This brief cooling period helps the cheese set slightly, making the sandwich easier to slice and enjoy.

Cut the sandwich in half diagonally (if you like) for that classic, Instagram-worthy presentation. Serve it up hot and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Want to elevate your Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich game even further? Here are some helpful tips and tricks to ensure your sandwich turns out perfectly every time:

1. Use Sturdy Bread

For the best results, use a sturdy bread like sourdough, Italian bread, or even a French baguette. These types of bread can handle the weight of the fillings without falling apart, and they get extra crispy when grilled.

2. Keep the Marinara Sauce Light

While marinara sauce adds great flavor, using too much can make your sandwich soggy. Spread just enough to cover the bread without oversaturating it. You can always serve extra marinara on the side for dipping if you want more sauce.

3. Press the Sandwich Gently

Pressing down on the sandwich with a spatula while grilling helps compress the fillings and ensure everything melts together. Just be gentle—you don’t want to squish the bread flat, but applying light pressure helps everything cook evenly.

4. Experiment with Cheeses

Feel free to mix up the cheeses in this sandwich. While Parmesan and mozzarella are classic choices, you can experiment with provolone, fontina, or even gouda for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well.

5. Add Extra Toppings

Want to take your sandwich to the next level? Consider adding extra toppings like sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even a slice of crispy bacon for additional flavor and texture.

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Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a meal in itself, but if you’re looking for the perfect side dish or beverage pairing, here are a few suggestions:

• Serve with a side salad: A light, refreshing salad with a simple vinaigrette makes a great contrast to the rich, cheesy sandwich.
• Pair with soup: A bowl of tomato basil soup or a creamy chicken soup pairs beautifully with this sandwich, creating a comforting, hearty meal.
• Add a side of fries: For a more indulgent meal, serve the sandwich with a side of crispy French fries or sweet potato fries.
• Enjoy with a cold drink: A cold glass of lemonade, iced tea, or even a light beer makes for a refreshing accompaniment to this warm, cheesy sandwich.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 28g

Final Thoughts

The Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods: chicken parmesan and grilled cheese. With its crispy, golden bread, gooey melted cheese, and savory chicken and marinara filling, this sandwich is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack when you’re craving something indulgent and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to make with ingredients you likely already have on hand.

So, next time you’re in the mood for something cheesy, savory, and downright delicious, give this Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Enjoy and happy cooking! 🍞🍗