A glorious mashup of two comfort-food legends
This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese takes everything you love about classic Chicken Parm—crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara, melty mozzarella, and salty Parmesan—and tucks it between two slices of golden, buttery grilled bread. The result? A rich, crunchy, gooey sandwich that feels indulgent in the very best way.
Designed to work beautifully with leftover breaded chicken, this recipe also includes a quick from-scratch option so you can make it anytime the craving hits.
Yields: 2 sandwiches
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 large chicken breast (about ½ lb), or 2–4 breaded chicken tenders
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for pan-frying
For the Sandwiches
- 4 slices sturdy bread (sourdough, Italian, or Texas toast)
- 2 tbsp softened butter or mayonnaise (for the outside)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup marinara sauce, warmed
- 4–6 fresh basil leaves (optional but highly recommended)
- Optional: 2–4 slices provolone cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If using raw chicken breast:
- Pound & Season
Pound the chicken between plastic wrap to an even ½-inch thickness. Cut into two cutlets and season both sides with salt and pepper. - Bread the Chicken
Set up three bowls: flour, beaten egg, and panko mixed with Parmesan and Italian seasoning.- Dredge chicken in flour
- Dip into egg
- Press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture
- Pan-Fry
Heat a thin layer of olive oil over medium heat. Cook chicken 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
If using pre-cooked breaded chicken:
Warm and re-crisp according to package directions or in an air fryer.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Prepare the Bread
Spread butter or mayonnaise on one side of each bread slice (this will be the outside). - Build the Layers (unbuttered sides)
- Bread slice, unbuttered side up
- Mozzarella + a sprinkle of Parmesan
- Crispy chicken
- Warm marinara (use sparingly)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Optional provolone or extra mozzarella
- Top with second slice of bread, buttered side out
Step 3: Grill to Golden Perfection
- Heat a clean skillet over medium-low heat.
- Place sandwiches in the skillet and cover with a lid (this helps the cheese melt).
- Cook 3–5 minutes, until the bottom is golden and crisp.
- Flip carefully, cover again, and cook another 3–5 minutes.
- Rest for 1–2 minutes, then slice and serve.
Serving Suggestion
Serve hot with extra warm marinara on the side for dipping. A simple green salad or crispy fries makes it a full comfort-food feast.
Pro Tips for the Ultimate Chicken Parm Grilled Cheese
- Mayo vs. Butter: Mayo gives an ultra-even, golden crust; butter brings classic richness.
- Avoid Sogginess: Warm marinara and use just enough to coat the chicken.
- Double-Cheese Strategy: Mozzarella for melt + Parmesan for savory depth = perfection.
- Low & Slow Heat: Prevents burning while ensuring gooey cheese.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: One or two sandwiches at a time cook best.
Final Bite
This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is indulgent, nostalgic, and wildly satisfying—crispy chicken, bubbling cheese, and bold Italian flavors all hugged by buttery grilled bread. It’s comfort food turned up to eleven, and once you make it, it’s guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your sandwich rotation. 🧀🍗🥪
