292cd374
Take your comfort food game to the next level with this Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich. It combines the crispy, cheesy goodness of chicken parmesan with the melty, golden crunch of a grilled cheese. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a decadent weekend treat.
PREP TIME
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2 sandwiches
EQUIPMENT
- Skillet or nonstick frying pan
- Spatula
- Small bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Grater (if using block cheese)
INGREDIENTS
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough, Italian, or thick-cut white bread)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
INGREDIENT NOTES
- Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breast, or leftover fried chicken for ease.
- Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully, but provolone or a blend works great.
- Bread: Choose sturdy slices that can hold up to the fillings without getting soggy.
- Butter: Can sub with garlic butter or mayo for extra flavor and crispiness.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Prep the Bread:
Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. These will be the outer sides that get grilled. - Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, on a clean surface.
- On each slice, layer: mozzarella cheese, chicken, a spoonful of marinara sauce, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and more mozzarella.
- Top with the second bread slice, butter-side up.
- Grill the Sandwiches:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Place sandwiches in the pan and cook until golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3–4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
- Serve:
- Slice in half and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
- Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
NUTRITION FACTS (per sandwich, approximate)
- Calories: 540
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
(Varies depending on bread, cheese, and sauce used.)
TIPS AND VARIATIONS
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara or sprinkle inside the sandwich.
- Crispy Version: Use breaded chicken cutlets instead of shredded chicken for a crunchier texture.
- Cheese Lovers: Add a layer of provolone or fontina for extra richness.
- Healthier Twist: Use whole wheat bread, reduced-fat cheese, and grilled chicken.
- Make It a Meal: Serve with a green salad or tomato soup for a balanced lunch or dinner.
