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
Scale
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.
