Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a comforting and indulgent sandwich that combines the gooey meltiness of mozzarella cheese, tender cooked chicken, and tangy marinara sauce, all toasted between crispy, golden slices of buttered bread sprinkled with Parmesan. Perfect for a quick lunch, cozy dinner, or satisfying snack, this recipe brings classic Chicken Parmesan flavors into a delightfully easy grilled cheese format that’s customizable and kid-friendly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Butter
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough or your preferred type)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Filling
- 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or sliced)
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese (or 1 cup shredded mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
Instructions
- Butter the Bread: Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the buttered side and gently press so it sticks well.
- Heat the Pan: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat to prepare for toasting the sandwich.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Place one slice of bread buttered side down on the skillet. Layer one slice of mozzarella cheese, then the shredded chicken, spoonful of marinara sauce, and another slice of mozzarella on top. Finish by placing the second slice of bread on top with the buttered side facing up.
- Toast the Sandwich: Cook the sandwich for 3-4 minutes on one side until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip using a spatula and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Adjust the heat if the bread browns too quickly to prevent burning.
- Melt the Cheese: Press gently on the sandwich with the spatula to help the cheese melt evenly and bind the filling together.
- Serve: Remove the grilled cheese from the skillet, allow it to cool slightly, slice in half, and serve warm with additional marinara sauce if desired.
Notes
- Choose thick-cut or sturdy bread like sourdough to avoid sogginess.
- Avoid overfilling with sauce and chicken to prevent a messy sandwich.
- Cooking on medium heat allows for an evenly toasted crust without burning.
- Substitute mozzarella with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for varied flavors.
- Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs inside the sandwich.
- For a healthier option, use whole-grain bread and low-fat cheese.
- A panini press can replace the skillet method for perfectly even grilling.
- Serve with extra marinara sauce as a dipping side.
- Mix garlic powder into the butter for a flavorful garlic butter spread.
Keywords: Chicken Parmesan, Grilled Cheese, Easy Sandwich, Quick Lunch, Comfort Food, Italian-inspired, Cheese Melt
