Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

The Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a delightful twist on two beloved classics. This recipe combines the comforting elements of a grilled cheese sandwich with the rich flavors of chicken Parmesan, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at a casual gathering, this recipe delivers on both taste and presentation. Enjoy the perfect balance of crispy bread, melty cheese, and savory chicken that will surely become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Twist: The combination of marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a delightful flavor explosion in every bite.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for lunch, dinner, or even as a party appetizer; this dish suits various occasions.
• Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and familiar flavors, kids (and adults) will love this sandwich.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. These tools will help you prepare each component perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Shallow dishes (for breading)
• Large skillet or griddle
• Spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Ensures even thickness of the chicken breasts for uniform cooking.
• Large skillet or griddle: Provides ample space to cook multiple sandwiches at once without overcrowding.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Breading

• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sandwiches

• 8 slices of your favorite bread (Italian, sourdough, or sandwich bread)
• 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Flatten the chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
2. Season the chicken: Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil over both sides of the chicken breasts.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

1. Set up a breading station: Use three shallow dishes. Put flour in the first dish, beaten egg in the second dish, and mix Italian breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese in the third.
2. Dredge each chicken breast: Coat each breast in flour first, shake off excess. Then dip into beaten egg followed by pressing into breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture until well-coated.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Cook chicken: Place breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing into strips.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Spread marinara sauce: On one side of each slice of bread, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
2. Layer ingredients: On half of the slices with sauce side up, place sliced chicken, more marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Top with remaining bread slices (sauce side down).

Step 5: Grill the Sandwiches

1. Butter sandwiches: Spread softened butter on both sides of each sandwich.
2. Cook sandwiches: Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and place sandwiches inside. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.

Step 6: Serve

1. Cool slightly: Remove sandwiches from skillet; let cool for a minute.
2. Slice and enjoy: Cut each sandwich in half and serve immediately with extra marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese!

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

The Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing complement the richness of the grilled cheese.

With Dipping Sauces

• Extra Marinara Sauce: Serve additional marinara on the side for dipping, enhancing the Italian flavors.
• Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic aioli adds a tasty twist for those who love bold flavors.

Accompanying Beverages

• Sparkling Water: Refreshing and palate-cleansing, sparkling water balances the richness of the sandwich.
• Iced Tea: Sweetened or unsweetened iced tea provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.

On a Platter

• Charcuterie Board: Arrange your grilled cheese alongside cured meats, cheeses, olives, and crackers for an impressive spread.
• Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies with hummus or ranch dip offer a crunchy contrast to the sandwich.

How to Perfect Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

To elevate your Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese to restaurant-quality, consider these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and homemade marinara sauce can significantly enhance flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy when sliced.
• Butter Generously: Make sure to butter both sides of your bread for that perfect golden crust.
• Control Your Heat: Cook on medium heat; too high will burn the bread before melting the cheese properly.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing mozzarella with provolone or fontina for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Pairing your Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese with good side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some perfect options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread complements the Italian theme perfectly; serve warm and toasted.
2. French Fries: Crispy fries add crunch; consider seasoning them with herbs or parmesan for extra flavor.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy balance and bright color to your plate.
4. Potato Chips: Crunchy potato chips are an easy option; pair with your favorite dip for extra fun.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch that contrasts nicely with the rich sandwich.
6. Tomato Soup: A classic pairing; serve warm for dipping or on the side for a comforting experience.
7. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a hearty and flavorful addition to your meal.
8. Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad adds a refreshing and light touch after enjoying such a rich sandwich.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s quality. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken well can lead to bland flavors. Always season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden brown finish and check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Not using enough cheese: A lack of cheese can result in a less satisfying texture. Ensure you layer both mozzarella and Parmesan generously for maximum flavor.
• Using stale bread: Using old or stale bread can ruin the sandwich’s texture. Choose fresh bread for a crispy and delicious outcome.
• Crowding the skillet: Placing too many sandwiches in the skillet can lower the temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep them fresh and prevent moisture loss.

Freezing Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

• Duration: You can freeze these sandwiches for up to 2 months.
• Containers: Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes but be aware this may make the bread soggy.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches on the skillet, covering with a lid, and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese?

Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a delicious sandwich that combines crispy bread, savory chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese.

Can I customize my Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like spinach, roasted peppers, or even different types of cheese for extra flavor.

How do I make Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and breadcrumbs while ensuring your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.

What sides go well with Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese?

This sandwich pairs nicely with a side salad, fries, or extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Final Thoughts

The Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is not just a meal; it’s an experience! With its crispy exterior and gooey inside, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to suit your taste preferences—it’s versatile enough for any palate!