This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich takes the beloved Italian classic and fuses it with the comfort of a crispy, buttery grilled cheese. Imagine juicy, breaded chicken smothered in marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella, all tucked between golden, crispy slices of buttery garlic bread. It’s a perfect balance of indulgence and comfort, making it an irresistible treat for lunch or dinner!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Parmesan:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Grilled Cheese Sandwich:
- 4 slices sourdough or Italian bread
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Parmesan
- Flatten the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts between parchment paper or plastic wrap.
- Using a rolling pin or meat mallet, pound them to about ½-inch thickness for even cooking.
- Set Up the Breading Station:
- In one shallow bowl, add flour.
- In a second bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Dredge chicken in flour, coating fully.
- Dip into egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered.
- Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Add the Sauce & Cheese:
- Spoon marinara sauce over the cooked chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with a lid or place under a broiler for a few minutes until cheese melts.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Bread
- Mix the Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, garlic powder, and parsley.
- Spread the mixture evenly onto one side of each bread slice.
- Toast the Bread:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place bread buttered-side down, and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan onto each slice.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes, until golden and cheese starts to melt.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
- Place Chicken on Bread:
- Once the bread is toasted, place the Chicken Parmesan on one slice.
- Add extra marinara sauce if desired.
- Top & Melt:
- Place the second slice of toasted bread on top, cheese-side down.
- Press lightly and cook for 1–2 minutes until crispy.
- Serve & Enjoy!
- Slice in half and serve hot with extra marinara sauce on the side.
Pro Tips for the Best Sandwich
- Use thick-cut bread to support the juicy chicken and melted cheese.
- Double-coat the chicken for extra crispiness!
- Butter & garlic seasoning adds extra depth to the grilled cheese.
- Use fresh mozzarella for an ultra-gooey melt.
This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich is the ultimate blend of crispy, cheesy goodness! Would you like to add a gourmet twist—perhaps a balsamic glaze or roasted tomatoes?