Description
This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a super easy and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of Chicken Parmesan without all the fuss. Crispy, golden grilled cheese sandwiches are filled with tender, juicy chicken, marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese. It’s the perfect comfort food for a quick lunch or dinner, combining the best of both worlds in one tasty sandwich!
Ingredients
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For the Chicken:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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For the Grilled Cheese:
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4 slices of bread (preferably thick-sliced)
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4 tablespoons butter, softened
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
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Instructions
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Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove from the skillet, let rest for a few minutes, and then slice into thin strips or small pieces. -
Prepare the Grilled Cheese:
While the chicken is cooking, butter one side of each slice of bread. On the non-buttered side, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. -
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Place the cooked chicken slices on one of the slices of bread, on top of the cheese. Add more marinara sauce on top of the chicken if desired. Then, top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out. -
Grill the Sandwiches:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. You can cover the pan with a lid to help the cheese melt faster.
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Serve:
Once the sandwiches are golden and crispy, remove from the skillet and slice in half. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve immediately with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
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Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
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Customizable: Add sautéed spinach, roasted peppers, or onions to the sandwich for extra flavor and texture.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread if needed for a gluten-free version of this sandwich.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Comfort Food
- Method: Grilling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American, Italian Fusion