Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: If the chicken is not already cooked, bake, grill, or sauté it until fully cooked, then slice or shred it. Toss the chicken in the marinara sauce until well-coated.
- Butter the Bread: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with garlic powder (if using) and Italian seasoning. Spread this mixture on one side of each slice of bread.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Layer with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, followed by the marinara-coated chicken. Top with the remaining cheeses, then place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side up.
- Cook the Sandwiches: Heat the olive oil in the skillet. Cook the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the grilled cheese in half and serve with a side of extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
- Use a Sturdy Bread: For a crispy and hearty sandwich, choose a thicker bread that can hold up to the filling, like Italian, sourdough, or even ciabatta.
- Cook Over Medium Heat: To avoid burning the bread while ensuring the cheese melts, keep the heat at medium or medium-low. This allows the bread to brown slowly and the cheese to get gooey.
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes onto the chicken before assembling the sandwich.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese: Add some pepper jack cheese and crushed red pepper flakes for an extra burst of heat.
- Veggie-Loaded: Include sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or sliced mushrooms to add some extra veggies and depth of flavor.
- Buffalo Style: Use buffalo sauce instead of marinara for a different twist. Add a little blue cheese for an authentic Buffalo chicken experience.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a Salad: A fresh Caesar or arugula salad complements the richness of the sandwich.
- Soup on the Side: Enjoy your grilled cheese with a bowl of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort meal.
- Extra Marinara Sauce: Keep a small bowl of marinara sauce on the side for dipping each cheesy bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a deliciously decadent meal that combines classic Italian flavors with the comfort of a grilled cheese sandwich. It’s not only easy to prepare but also offers a fantastic way to use leftover chicken or transform a simple meal into something special. The crisp exterior and melty, flavorful interior will make this a new favorite in your meal rotation.
Storing and Reheating
- Storage: If you have leftovers, wrap the sandwiches tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore the crispiness of the bread. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Conclusion
The Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a fusion of two beloved comfort foods that doesn’t disappoint. The combination of gooey mozzarella, rich marinara sauce, and crispy, buttery bread makes every bite satisfying and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a quick lunch, or just because you’re craving something cheesy and delicious, this recipe will hit the spot. Give it a try and elevate your grilled cheese game today!
