If you love the comforting flavors of chicken Parmesan but crave something incredibly quick, cheesy, and crispy, then you are going to adore this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe. It takes all the classic ingredients you know and love — tender breaded chicken, melted provolone, bubbly Parmesan cheese, and tangy marinara — and wraps them up in golden, buttery grilled bread for a sandwich experience that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re tackling a busy weeknight or just want a satisfying, cheesy meal in under 40 minutes, this recipe has all the passion of Italian flavors with zero fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key, but don’t worry, this recipe keeps it simple and approachable. Each component plays a crucial role: from the crispy chicken patties adding hearty texture, to the garlic butter that crisps up the bread with an irresistible aroma.
- 2 frozen breaded chicken patties: These bring the crispy, savory chicken component without any prep hassle.
- 2 tablespoons garlic butter: Adds rich flavor and helps the bread toast to a perfect golden brown.
- 4 slices Italian bread: A sturdy, flavorful bread that crisps up beautifully and holds all fillings.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: The tangy, herby base that makes every bite deliciously Italian.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds fragrant herbal notes to the sauce for authentic taste.
- Pinch of garlic salt: Enhances the savory flavor and gives a subtle kick.
- 6 thin slices provolone cheese: Melts smoothly to create luscious, gooey layers inside the sandwich.
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty finish when sprinkled over the marinara dip.
How to Make Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Chicken Patties
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the frozen breaded chicken patties on a baking sheet and bake them until they are crispy on the outside and fully cooked through — about 20 minutes. Once done, slice each patty in half lengthwise to perfectly fit in your sandwich.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinara Sauce
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the marinara sauce with dried basil and a pinch of garlic salt. Microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute until the sauce is warm and aromatic. Give it a good stir to meld the flavors together before layering it on your sandwich.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Spread garlic butter liberally on one side of each bread slice. Place a slice of bread, buttered side down, onto a skillet set over medium heat. Then, layer two slices of provolone cheese, a tablespoon of the warm marinara sauce, two halves of your chicken patty, another two tablespoons of marinara, and one more slice of provolone. Cap it with the second slice of bread, buttered side up, ready for grilling.
Step 4: Grill Until Golden and Melty
Cook the sandwich for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, pressing lightly as it grills. You’re aiming for a crunchy, golden crust and perfectly melted cheese gooing around that tender chicken. Repeat the process for the second sandwich and get ready to enjoy.
Step 5: Serve with Parmesan Marinara
Before serving, sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over any remaining warm marinara sauce, turning it into a fantastic dipping sauce. This little touch adds an extra zing of flavor that perfectly complements your sandwich.
How to Serve Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley can brighten up your sandwich plate beautifully. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a fun spicy kick if you’re into that extra layer of flavor.
Side Dishes
This grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette or some oven-roasted veggies to keep things balanced. Garlic fries or a simple bowl of tomato soup make classic sides that feel indulgent and comforting alongside the sandwich.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the sandwich into fun shapes with cookie cutters for a whimsical touch at a casual gathering or layering the sandwich ingredients as an open-faced melt for a deluxe presentation. You can also serve mini sliders using smaller bread for bite-sized enjoyment.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe sandwiches can be wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, try to avoid stacking or crushing them.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze for later, assemble the sandwiches but do not grill. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling fresh.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven until the bread is crisp and the cheese is melted again. Avoid microwaving directly to maintain that perfect crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen patties?
Absolutely! You can use cooked chicken breast strips or leftover rotisserie chicken. Just be sure to pat it dry and season it before assembling for the best results.
What types of cheese work best for this recipe?
Provolone is preferred for its meltability and mild flavor, but mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses can work wonderfully too. Just make sure your cheese melts nicely without overpowering the other ingredients.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To go meatless, swap the chicken patties for breaded eggplant slices or a thick slice of grilled portobello mushroom, seasoned well. This keeps the heartiness while honoring the chicken Parmesan spirit.
Is it okay to use store-bought marinara sauce?
Definitely! A good-quality store-bought marinara sauce saves time and works perfectly here. If you want to jazz it up, stir in some fresh herbs, garlic, or a pinch of red pepper flakes before heating.
How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Using garlic butter on the bread and grilling on medium heat helps create a crispy exterior that seals in moisture. Also, slicing the chicken thinly and not overloading with marinara will keep your sandwich from getting soggy.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — a wonderfully satisfying Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe that’s quick, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for moments when you want comfort food without the fuss, this recipe is certain to become a beloved staple you make again and again. Grab your bread and cheese, and let’s get grilling — your taste buds are in for a treat!
Print
Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Baking and Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese recipe offers a quick and delicious twist on classic chicken parmesan by combining crispy baked chicken patties with melty provolone cheese and hearty marinara sauce, all grilled between slices of Italian bread spread with garlic butter. Perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner in under 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken Patties
- 2 frozen breaded chicken patties (such as Tyson®)
Butter
- 2 tablespoons garlic butter (or to taste)
Bread and Cheese
- 4 slices Italian bread
- 6 thin slices provolone cheese
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
Marinara Sauce
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (or to taste)
- Pinch of garlic salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- Bake the Chicken Patties: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the frozen chicken patties on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes until they are crispy and thoroughly cooked. Once baked, slice each chicken patty lengthwise into halves to prepare for sandwich assembly.
- Prepare the Marinara Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the marinara sauce, dried basil, and garlic salt. Microwave the mixture for 30 seconds to 1 minute until warm, then stir well to blend the flavors.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread garlic butter evenly on one side of each slice of Italian bread. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, onto a skillet heated over medium heat. Layer with 2 slices of provolone cheese, 1 tablespoon of the warmed marinara sauce, two halves of the baked chicken patty, an additional 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce, another slice of provolone cheese, then top with the second bread slice, buttered side up.
- Grill the Sandwich: Cook the sandwich for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the bread turns golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside melts fully. Repeat this grilling process for the second sandwich.
- Serve with Parmesan Marinara: Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over any remaining marinara sauce and serve it alongside each grilled cheese sandwich for dipping, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Notes
- Use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast iron pan for even grilling without sticking.
- Adjust the amount of garlic butter and seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- For a spicier twist, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce before heating.
- Ensure chicken patties are fully cooked before assembling the sandwich for food safety.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor impact.
