Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Sometimes you just want the comfort of chicken parmesan without the fuss of breading and frying. This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese brings all those flavors together in a crispy melty sandwich that is quick enough for lunch yet satisfying enough for dinner. It is my go to when there are leftover chicken and hungry faces at the table.

I whipped this up one late night when my kids were begging for “something cheesy and crispy” and since then it has been in our heavy weeknight rotation The way the parmesan butter crisps up the bread … nobody complains when this lands on their plate

Ingredients

• Bread: Use a sturdy sourdough or your favorite sandwich loaf The flavor and crunch are important for that classic grilled cheese texture Look for bread with a good crust and soft interior
• Cooked chicken: Shredded or sliced leftovers work wonderfully Make sure it is moist and not overcooked for the best bite Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here
• Mozzarella cheese: Melty mozzarella is a must for that signature cheese pull You can use slices or shred your own for better melting
• Marinara sauce: Use a thick flavorful sauce so your sandwich does not get soggy Homemade or a good quality jarred marinara makes a big difference
• Grated parmesan cheese: This adds sharpness and crisps up beautifully when grilled Buy a wedge and grate it fresh if you can
• Unsalted butter: Softened butter is key for easy spreading and golden toasting Choose high quality butter for extra flavor
• Italian seasoning: Brings an herby zip to the whole sandwich Look for a blend with oregano basil and a hint of rosemary

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bread:

Spread a generous amount of softened butter on one side of each bread slice Press grated parmesan cheese onto the buttered sides so it sticks well and sets the stage for that irresistible crispy exterior

Heat the Pan:

Place a non stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and allow it to warm up for a few minutes for even toasting

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Lay one slice of bread buttered side down into the hot skillet Top with mozzarella cheese enough to cover the bread then add the shredded or sliced chicken Spoon a bit of marinara sauce over the chicken but do not drown it Finish with another layer of mozzarella

Top the Sandwich:

Add a second slice of bread buttered side up forming a sandwich Press lightly so everything holds together

Grill to Golden:

Let the sandwich cook for about three to four minutes until the bottom is deeply golden and the cheese starts to melt Peek underneath with a spatula to check for doneness

Flip and Finish:

Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula If the bread browns too fast adjust the heat down Toast the second side until golden and melty Press gently with the spatula to encourage the cheese to ooze out a bit and glue the sandwich together

Serve While Hot:

Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it sit for a minute before slicing in half This makes it easier to cut neatly and keeps the insides hot Serve warm

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The parmesan on the outside is what takes this over the top for me That nutty flavor and crunch makes every bite feel special My family loves how the kitchen smells like an Italian restaurant when these are sizzling away on the stove

Storage Tips

Leftover sandwiches can be wrapped tightly and refrigerated for up to two days To reheat place in a hot skillet for a few minutes per side so the bread crisps back up and the cheese melts again Avoid microwaving as it makes the bread soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

No mozzarella Use provolone or fontina for a different cheese pull Only have tomato sauce Add a pinch more Italian seasoning and a touch of garlic powder for a rich flavor swap Any leftover chicken is fair game even grilled or roasted turkey

Serving Suggestions

Pair these with a crisp green salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a filling meal They make a crowd favorite on game day or as a fast weeknight dinner Serve with extra marinara on the side for dipping if you love extra sauciness

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Cultural Context

Chicken parmesan is an Italian American classic that blends Italian flavors with the love of cheesy comfort food This sandwich takes the heart of that dish and turns it into an easy handheld treat perfect for kids and grownups alike

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken adds flavor and saves time. Simply layer it with cheese and sauce as directed.

→ What kind of bread works best?

Sourdough holds up well and develops a crispy crust, but any sturdy sandwich bread will work.

→ Is another cheese suitable instead of mozzarella?

Provolone or fontina can be substituted for mozzarella for a similar melt and flavor profile.

→ Can I prepare this ahead?

Assemble in advance, but cook just before eating to keep the bread crisp and cheese perfectly melted.

→ How do I keep the sandwich from becoming soggy?

Lightly butter the bread and use just enough marinara. Cooking on medium heat helps achieve a crisp exterior.