Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
Craving the flavors of chicken parmesan but don’t have the time or energy for a full meal? This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is the perfect solution. Combining the cheesy goodness of a grilled cheese with the savory taste of chicken parmesan, this sandwich is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 8 slices of bread (Italian or any sturdy bread)
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Mix Chicken and Sauce: In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the marinara sauce. Ensure the chicken is well coated.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the Italian seasoning for added flavor.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Butter the Bread: Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Add Chicken: On the unbuttered side of 4 bread slices, evenly distribute the chicken mixture.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the chicken mixture.
- Top with Bread: Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing out.
Step 3: Cook the Sandwiches
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Grill the Sandwiches: Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Step 4: Serve
- Cut and Garnish: Cut the sandwiches in half and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve Hot: Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Plating the Sandwiches
- Serve on a Plate: Place the grilled cheese sandwiches on a plate.
- Add a Side: Pair with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Side Dish Ideas
- Marinara Sauce: A small bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping adds extra flavor.
- Green Salad: A light, fresh salad balances the richness of the sandwich.
Conclusion
This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of a classic Italian dish in a quick and easy sandwich form. Perfect for busy days, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings without requiring much effort. Enjoy the gooey cheese, savory chicken, and crispy bread in every bite!
FAQs
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe. It saves time and adds a delicious flavor.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use any cheese you prefer. Provolone or cheddar would be great alternatives.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet or oven to keep the bread crispy.
4. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and grill the sandwiches just before serving.
5. Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely! Adding sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms would be a great way to enhance the sandwich.
Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
Craving the flavors of chicken parmesan but don't have the time or energy for a full meal? This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is the perfect solution. Combining the cheesy goodness of a grilled cheese with the savory taste of chicken parmesan, this sandwich is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients
- 2 frozen breaded chicken patties (such as Tyson®)
- 2 tablespoons garlic butter, or to taste
- 4 slices Italian bread
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried basil, or to taste
- 1 pinch garlic salt, or to taste
- 6 thin slices provolone cheese
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Place chicken patties on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven until cooked through and crispy, about 20 minutes. Cut chicken patties in half lengthwise.
- Spread garlic butter onto 1 side of each bread slice.
- Mix marinara sauce, basil, and garlic salt together in a microwave-safe bowl; heat in microwave until warmed, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir.
- Place 1 bread slice, butter-side down, into a skillet; top with 2 slices provolone cheese, 1 tablespoon marinara sauce, 2 chicken patty halves, overlapped to cover bread, 2 tablespoons marinara sauce, 1 slice provolone cheese, and bread, butter-side up. Cook over medium heat until bread is crisp and cheese is melted, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over remaining marinara sauce and serve alongside each sandwich.