Looking for a quick and comforting meal that merges two beloved classics? This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich is exactly what you need! It combines the crispy, cheesy goodness of chicken Parmesan with the comforting flavors of a grilled cheese sandwich. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded or thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 4 slices of thick bread (such as sourdough or Italian)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh basil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded or sliced cooked chicken breast with the marinara sauce, garlic powder, oregano, and basil. Stir until well combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean work surface.
- Layer each slice with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Evenly distribute the chicken mixture over the mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken mixture.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Place the other two slices of bread on top, buttered side up.
Step 3: Cook the Sandwiches
- Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
- Reduce the heat if necessary to prevent the bread from burning before the cheese is fully melted.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool slightly before slicing.
- Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh basil for added flavor and presentation.
Cooking Notes
- Bread Choice: A thicker bread like sourdough or Italian works best for this recipe, as it holds up well with the hearty filling.
- Cheese Melting Tip: To ensure the cheese melts evenly, cover the skillet with a lid for part of the cooking time.
- Leftover Chicken: This is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken from a previous meal.
Variations
Spicy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Version
- Substitute the chicken with breaded eggplant slices for a vegetarian twist on this classic sandwich.
Extra Cheesy Version
- Use a combination of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy, gooey sandwich.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
It’s best to assemble and cook the sandwiches just before serving for optimal crispiness. However, you can prepare the chicken mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I Use a Different Cheese?
Absolutely! Provolone, Swiss, or even a mix of mozzarella and cheddar can be used in this recipe. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese?
This sandwich pairs well with a side salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or even some crispy French fries for a more indulgent meal.
How Do I Prevent the Bread from Burning?
If your bread is browning too quickly before the cheese melts, reduce the heat and cover the skillet to help the cheese melt more evenly.
This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a perfect way to combine two classic comfort foods into one incredible meal. Crispy bread, tender chicken, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese come together to create a flavor-packed sandwich that’s sure to impress. Try out the different variations or add your own twist to make it uniquely yours!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family, and save it for your next craving for comfort food!
