Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese combines the flavors of crispy chicken parmesan with the melty, golden goodness of a classic grilled cheese sandwich. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner without all the fuss.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Small saucepan (optional, for heating marinara)
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients Overview
- Bread: Choose thick, sturdy bread like sourdough or Italian bread to hold the hearty filling.
- Cooked Chicken: Breaded chicken tenders or leftover rotisserie chicken work great.
- Cheese: A mix of mozzarella for stretchiness and Parmesan for flavor.
- Marinara Sauce: Adds that classic chicken parmesan tang.
- Butter or Garlic Butter: For golden, crispy bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Use pre-cooked breaded chicken tenders or leftover cooked chicken. If the chicken isn’t warm, heat it in a skillet or oven until hot and crispy.
2. Heat the Marinara Sauce
- Warm about ½ cup of marinara sauce in a small saucepan or microwave-safe dish.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches
- Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- On the unbuttered side of one slice, layer:
- 1 slice of mozzarella cheese
- 1–2 pieces of cooked chicken
- 1–2 tablespoons of warm marinara sauce
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese
- Another slice of mozzarella cheese
- Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
4. Cook the Sandwiches
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the assembled sandwiches on the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve
- Remove from the skillet, let cool slightly, and slice in half. Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping if desired.
Recipe Tips
- Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- Upgrade the Butter: Use garlic butter or herbed butter for extra flavor.
- Add Veggies: Layer sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers for a veggie boost.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- Side Salad: A simple Caesar salad or mixed greens complement the sandwich.
- Soup: Tomato basil soup is a classic pairing.
- Potato Chips or Fries: Add crunch with chips or crispy oven-baked fries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use grilled chicken instead of breaded?
Yes! Grilled chicken works well for a lighter version of this sandwich.
What type of bread works best?
Thick bread like sourdough or Italian holds up well to the hearty filling, but any bread you enjoy can be used.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough, Italian, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons butter or garlic butter
- 2 cooked breaded chicken tenders (or equivalent cooked chicken)
- ½ cup marinara sauce, warmed
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by warming or cooking as needed.
- Butter one side of each bread slice.
- Assemble the sandwich with cheese, chicken, marinara sauce, and more cheese.
- Cook on a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and melty, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Serve with extra marinara for dipping and enjoy!
Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is the ultimate mashup of comfort foods, combining the best of both worlds into one gooey, crispy delight.
Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
Equipment
- Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Small saucepan (optional, for heating marinara)
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread sourdough, Italian, or your choice
- 2 tablespoons butter or garlic butter
- 2 cooked breaded chicken tenders or equivalent cooked chicken
- ½ cup marinara sauce warmed
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by warming or cooking as needed.
- Butter one side of each bread slice.
- Assemble the sandwich with cheese, chicken, marinara sauce, and more cheese.
- Cook on a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and melty, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Serve with extra marinara for dipping and enjoy!
- Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is the ultimate mashup of comfort foods, combining the best of both worlds into one gooey, crispy delight.
Leave a Reply