Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
This delicious mash-up combines the crispy, saucy comfort of Chicken Parm with the gooey, toasted goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich. Perfect for using up leftover chicken or a quick, satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Makes 2 hearty sandwiches
· 4 slices thick bread (Italian, sourdough, or Texas toast)
· 2 tablespoons butter, softened
· 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
· 1 cup cooked, shredded or sliced chicken breast (rotisserie works great)
· ½ cup marinara sauce, plus extra for dipping
· 6 slices mozzarella cheese
· ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
· ¼ cup shredded Italian blend cheese (optional)
· ¼ cup seasoned breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
· 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
· 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil or parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the chicken mixture:
· In a small bowl, combine the cooked chicken with ½ cup marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until chicken is coated. Warm gently in a microwave or skillet if chicken is cold. - Prep the bread:
· Spread one side of each bread slice with softened butter.
· On the opposite side of each slice, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise (this helps create a golden, crisp exterior when grilled).
· If using breadcrumbs for crunch, sprinkle a light layer over the mayonnaise side of two bread slices. - Assemble sandwiches: · On the dry (non-buttered, non-mayonnaise) side of two bread slices, layer in this order:
- 1 slice mozzarella
- Half of the chicken mixture
- Another slice of mozzarella
- Sprinkle of remaining Parmesan and Italian blend cheese (if using)
· Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
- Cook the sandwiches:
· Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
· Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
· If bread is browning too quickly, reduce heat to ensure the cheese melts fully before the outside burns. - Serve:
· Let sandwiches rest for 1-2 minutes before slicing (helps cheese set slightly).
· Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
· Serve with a small bowl of warm marinara for dipping.
Tips & Variations
· For extra crispiness: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or garlic salt to the buttered side of the bread before grilling.
· Use leftovers: This is perfect for leftover breaded chicken cutlets or grilled chicken strips.
· Add veggies: Sautéed spinach, sliced roasted red peppers, or thinly sliced onions add extra flavor and nutrition.
· Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture or use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella.
· Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and melted.
Serving Suggestions
· A simple side salad with Italian dressing
· Tomato soup for classic dipping
· Garlic Parmesan roasted broccoli
· Sweet potato fries
This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a fun, comforting twist on two classics—guaranteed to satisfy those cheesy, savory cravings in under 20 minutes!