This Easy Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is the perfect mix of crispy and cheesy. Imagine your favorite comfort food—grilled cheese—with a tasty twist of chicken and marinara sauce!
It’s so simple to whip up! Just stack some cheese, chicken, and sauce between two slices of bread, grill until golden, and enjoy. You might just gobble it up at lightning speed! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick bread like sourdough or Italian loaf holds up well in this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, whole grain or gluten-free bread can work too!
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is super convenient and adds great flavor. If you don’t have it, leftover grilled chicken or even deli slices can substitute just fine.
Marinara Sauce: A good marinara sauce is essential for that classic chicken parmesan taste. If you need a substitute, alfredo sauce or even a pepper sauce can work if you’re feeling adventurous!
Cheese: Mozzarella is the star here—it’s all about that melty goodness. If you’re in a pinch, feel free to use any melting cheese like provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
How Do You Get That Perfectly Grilled Sandwich?
Grilling can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get a perfect golden crust. Here’s how to nail it:
- Butter Generously: Use enough butter to coat each slice of bread. This creates a crispy shell.
- Medium Heat: It’s important not to rush things! Medium heat lets the cheese melt without burning the bread.
- Press Down: Gently press the sandwich with a spatula while it cooks; this helps it compact, ensuring cheese melts evenly.
- Flip Carefully: Use a spatula or tongs to flip your sandwich gently, avoiding any spillage of gooey cheese!
These tips will help you create a beautifully grilled Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese that’s not only tasty but also satisfying. Enjoy every cheesy bite! 🥪
Easy Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 slices of thick bread (such as sourdough or Italian loaf)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, thinly sliced (rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken works great)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Dried oregano (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sandwich will take about 10-15 minutes of preparation and cooking time. It’s quick to put together and perfect for a satisfying meal any time of day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat Up Your Skillet:
Start by heating a skillet or griddle over medium heat. You want it warm enough to toast the bread without burning it!
2. Butter the Bread:
Generously butter one side of each slice of bread. This will give your grilled cheese that lovely golden crust.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, onto the skillet. On each slice, layer half of the sliced chicken, followed by a generous spoonful of marinara sauce.
4. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
Next, sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce. Use as much cheese as you’d like for extra gooeyness!
5. Top It Off:
Finally, place the remaining two slices of bread on top, with the buttered side facing up.
6. Grill Until Golden:
Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it so nothing burns!
7. Flip and Finalize:
Carefully flip each sandwich and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes. Press lightly with a spatula to help the cheese melt and the bread get crispy.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute. You can sprinkle some fresh basil and dried oregano on top for extra flavor, if you’d like!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your sandwiches in half and serve them warm. Extra marinara sauce on the side is perfect for dipping!
Enjoy your gooey, savory Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese! It’s bound to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While sourdough and Italian loaf are excellent choices, you can also use whole grain, ciabatta, or even gluten-free bread. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold up with the fillings!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can use deli slices, leftover turkey, or even a vegetarian substitute like grilled eggplant or zucchini for a meatless version.
How Do I Make a Spicier Version?
For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or layer in sliced jalapeños or pepperoni with the chicken. You can also opt for spicy cheese blends like pepper jack!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, either warm them on a skillet over low heat or microwave them, but be aware that they might not be as crispy!
