If you are looking for a delicious, comforting twist on two classic favorites, you will absolutely love the Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe. It combines the crispy, flavorful breaded chicken with gooey melted cheese and rich marinara sauce, all snugged between perfectly grilled Italian bread. This easy-to-make sandwich not only satisfies your craving for Italian flavors but also adds a quick, satisfying meal to your weeknight menu. The best part is how simple the ingredients come together for a result that feels indulgent but takes just minutes to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly but play a huge role in bringing out the heartiness, tang, and crunch that make this sandwich a standout. Each element contributes something unique, from buttery crispy bread to savory tomato sauce and melty cheese layers.
- Frozen breaded chicken patties: Choose quality patties for that irresistible crispy texture and juicy chicken flavor.
- Garlic butter: Adds rich, aromatic flavor and helps toast the bread to golden perfection.
- Italian bread: The sturdy yet airy texture holds all fillings well while grilling nicely.
- Marinara sauce: Provides the classic tomato sweetness and acidity that balances the rich cheese and chicken.
- Dried basil: Offers a fragrant herbal note that elevates the sauce.
- Garlic salt: Adds just the right punch of savory depth without overpowering.
- Provolone cheese: Melts beautifully and brings a mild, creamy flavor.
- Shredded Parmesan cheese: Gives a sharp, nutty finish when sprinkled on the side sauce.
How to Make Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Chicken Patties
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the frozen breaded chicken patties on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, carefully slice each patty in half lengthwise; these thinner pieces fit perfectly in the sandwich and ensure every bite tastes balanced.
Step 2: Prepare the Warm Marinara Sauce
While the chicken cooks, grab a microwave-safe bowl and combine the marinara sauce with dried basil and a pinch of garlic salt. Heating this mixture for 30 seconds to a minute helps bring out the flavors and makes it easier to spread onto the sandwich layers.
Step 3: Assemble Your Sandwich
Spread garlic butter generously on one side of each bread slice – this creates that crave-worthy golden crust. Then in a warm skillet over medium heat, place one slice buttered side down. Layer on two slices of provolone cheese, a spoonful of the warmed marinara, your sliced chicken patties, more marinara sauce, and two more provolone slices. Top it all with the second slice of bread, butter side up.
Step 4: Grill Until Golden and Melty
Cook the sandwich for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You want a deep golden-brown crust with gooey melted cheese oozing in every bite. Repeat with the second sandwich and keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning, adjusting as needed.
Step 5: Serve with Parmesan Dipping Sauce
Before serving, sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over any remaining marinara sauce and serve on the side. This dipping sauce adds an extra layer of that classic Chicken Parmesan flavor that’s simply irresistible.
How to Serve Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves or a pinch of red pepper flakes on top makes the sandwich pop visually and adds fresh, bright flavors that complement the rich ingredients. Even a little cracked black pepper on the marinara dip can elevate your presentation.
Side Dishes
This grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to keep the meal balanced. For a heartier touch, garlic parmesan fries or a classic Caesar salad make perfect companions that echo the Italian flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing your sandwich diagonally and stacking them to show off the layers of melted cheese and breaded chicken. Serving the sandwiches slightly open-faced with sauce drizzled artistically on the plate adds a restaurant-style flair at home. You can even skewer sandwich halves with toothpicks for easy sharing and a fun look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though these sandwiches rarely last long!), wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days without losing too much texture or flavor.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the sandwiches without grilling them first. Wrap each one individually and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to a month. When ready to eat, bake from frozen to maintain the crispy texture without sogginess.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or frozen sandwiches in a skillet over medium-low heat to crisp up the bread again, or use an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it might make the bread chewy rather than crispy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen chicken patties?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can bread and cook fresh chicken breasts before assembling the sandwich. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly and maintain that crispy coating for the best experience.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Italian bread is ideal because it has a firm crust and soft interior, perfect for grilling without falling apart. However, rustic sourdough or a sturdy ciabatta can also work beautifully.
Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken patties with breaded eggplant slices or a plant-based breaded chicken alternative. The marinara and cheese give you plenty of classic flavor even without meat.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
This sandwich is very kid-friendly due to its familiar flavors and gooey cheese. You can adjust the herbs and garlic salt to taste for little ones who prefer milder seasoning.
What cheese substitutes can I use if I don’t have provolone?
Mozzarella or mild cheddar can be excellent stand-ins. Mozzarella melts nicely and keeps the traditional Italian profile, while mild cheddar adds a touch of sharpness if you like something different.
Final Thoughts
If you want a quick yet hearty lunch or dinner that combines the best of comfort food and classic Italian flavors, the Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe is here to save the day. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this sandwich is all about cozy satisfaction and delicious nostalgia. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it one of your easy weeknight favorites too.
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Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A quick and easy twist on classic chicken parmesan, this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese combines crispy baked breaded chicken patties, melted provolone cheese, and flavorful marinara sauce between buttery grilled Italian bread slices. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a comforting, savory sandwich perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinara
- 2 frozen breaded chicken patties (such as Tyson®)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (or to taste)
- Pinch of garlic salt (or to taste)
Sandwich
- 4 slices Italian bread
- 2 tablespoons garlic butter (or to taste)
- 6 thin slices provolone cheese
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bake the Chicken Patties: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the frozen breaded chicken patties on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, or until they become crispy and are cooked through. Once baked, carefully cut each chicken patty in half lengthwise to prepare for the sandwich assembly.
- Prepare the Marinara Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the marinara sauce, dried basil, and a pinch of garlic salt. Heat the mixture in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute until warm, then stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread garlic butter evenly on one side of each slice of Italian bread. Heat a skillet over medium heat and place one slice of bread, buttered side down. Layer this bread slice with two slices of provolone cheese, one tablespoon of warm marinara sauce, two halves of the chicken patty, an additional two tablespoons of marinara sauce, two more slices of provolone cheese, and finally top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
- Grill the Sandwich: Cook the sandwich in the skillet for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Flip carefully and continue cooking until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside has melted fully. Repeat the process for the second sandwich.
- Serve with Parmesan Marinara: Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over any remaining marinara sauce and serve it alongside the grilled sandwiches as a flavorful dipping sauce to complement every bite.
Notes
- Using frozen breaded chicken patties makes this recipe very quick and effortless.
- Adjust the garlic butter amount on the bread slices according to your taste for a richer flavor.
- Make sure the skillet is preheated properly before grilling the sandwich to achieve a perfect golden crust.
- You can substitute provolone with mozzarella cheese if desired for a different cheese flavor.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce mix.
