Combine the crispy goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich with the bold, Italian-inspired flavors of chicken parmesan in this quick and satisfying recipe. Loaded with gooey mozzarella, marinara sauce, and savory chicken, it’s a comforting meal perfect for busy days or indulgent lunches.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Cheesy and Crispy: A golden, buttery crust with melted cheese inside.
- Italian-Inspired: A fun twist on the classic chicken parmesan dish.
- Versatile: Great for using up leftover chicken.
- Perfect for All Ages: A crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 slices bread (sourdough, white, or your favorite)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine the cooked chicken, marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Place one slice of bread butter-side down on a flat surface. Add a slice of mozzarella cheese, half of the chicken mixture, another slice of mozzarella, and top with a second slice of bread, butter-side up. Repeat for the second sandwich.
Step 3: Cook the Sandwiches
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool slightly. Slice in half and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2 sandwiches
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for heat.
- Herb Upgrade: Use fresh basil leaves or sprinkle extra Italian seasoning inside the sandwich.
- Cheese Alternatives: Swap mozzarella for provolone or use a combination of both.
- Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb bread or make the sandwich using large lettuce leaves as a wrap.
- Extra Crispy: Sprinkle grated Parmesan on the buttered side of the bread before grilling for a crispy crust.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the bread soggy.
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
2. Can I use a different bread?
Absolutely! Sourdough, whole wheat, or ciabatta are great options.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter and cheese alternatives to make it dairy-free.
4. What’s the best way to prevent soggy bread?
Use just enough marinara sauce to coat the chicken and avoid overfilling the sandwich.
5. Can I bake these sandwiches instead of grilling them?
Yes, bake them at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
6. How do I make it gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version.
7. Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Add sliced tomatoes, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
8. What dips pair well with this sandwich?
Serve with extra marinara sauce or garlic butter for dipping.
9. Can I freeze the sandwiches?
It’s best to freeze the assembled (but uncooked) sandwiches. Thaw and grill when ready to serve.
10. Can I make mini versions for appetizers?
Yes, use slider buns or smaller bread slices to create bite-sized portions perfect for parties.
Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a cheesy, crispy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With its melty mozzarella, savory chicken, and buttery bread, it’s a fun twist on two classic dishes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this sandwich is sure to impress!
Print
Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich is the ultimate comfort food! Combining the crispy goodness of grilled cheese with bold Italian flavors, it’s packed with marinara, mozzarella, Parmesan, and tender chicken. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days!
Ingredients
Meat:
- 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
Condiments:
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
Baking & Spices:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Bread & Baked Goods:
- 4 slices bread (Italian, sourdough, or your choice)
Dairy:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix the cooked chicken with marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Set aside.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Place a slice of bread butter-side down on a flat surface. Layer 1 slice of mozzarella, half of the chicken mixture, 1 tbsp of grated Parmesan, and another slice of mozzarella.
- Top with another slice of bread, butter-side up. Repeat for the second sandwich.
- Cook the Sandwiches:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
- Serve:
- Remove from the skillet, slice in half, and serve warm. Pair with extra marinara sauce for dipping if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover grilled chicken for extra flavor.
- Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different cheese profile.
- For a crunchy twist, sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan on the buttered side before grilling.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Snack
- Method: Griddle or Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American