Get ready to experience a mouthwatering culinary mashup that combines two all-time favorite dishes: the crispy, cheesy chicken parmesan and the classic grilled cheese sandwich.
This recipe is the ultimate comfort food that will satisfy your cravings and impress your taste buds with its perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is about to become your new obsession.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Parmesan:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Grilled Cheese:
- 4 slices of thick Italian bread (sourdough or ciabatta work great)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
The foundation of this extraordinary grilled cheese is a perfectly crispy chicken cutlet.
Begin by creating a breading station that will transform your chicken into a golden, crunchy masterpiece.
Start by placing your chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
This ensures uniform cooking and helps the breading adhere perfectly.
In three separate shallow dishes, create your breading assembly line.
The first dish will contain the all-purpose flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. The second dish will hold the beaten eggs, whisked until smooth.
The final dish will be a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and dried oregano – this is where the magic of flavor happens.
Carefully dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Then dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring complete coverage.
Finally, press the chicken into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, making sure every inch is coated with the fragrant, cheesy mixture.
The key is to press gently but firmly, creating a thick, even coating that will crisp up beautifully when cooked.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan with about 1/4 inch of oil.
The oil should be hot but not smoking – around 350°F is the sweet spot.
Carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets into the hot oil, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they achieve a deep golden-brown color and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
This step ensures your chicken remains crispy and doesn’t become soggy.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes while you prepare the other components of your grilled cheese.
The residual heat will help the chicken stay warm and continue to develop its crispy exterior.
Step 3: Assembling the Grilled Cheese
Now comes the exciting part – bringing together all the delicious components.
Take your thick slices of Italian bread and spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice.
This will create that irresistible golden, crispy exterior that makes grilled cheese so beloved.
On the non-buttered sides, spread a generous layer of marinara sauce. The sauce should be at room temperature to prevent making the bread soggy.
Sprinkle the dried basil over the marinara to add an extra layer of aromatic flavor.
Next, layer half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on two of the bread slices.
Carefully place the crispy chicken cutlets on top of the cheese, ensuring they fit nicely without hanging over too much.
Top the chicken with the remaining cheese, creating a luxurious, melty blanket that will bind everything together.
Step 4: Grilling to Perfection
Place a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
The key to a perfect grilled cheese is patience – you want the bread to turn golden brown while allowing the cheese to melt completely.
Carefully transfer the assembled sandwiches to the skillet, buttered side down.
Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is a beautiful golden brown and the cheese starts to melt.
Gently press down on the sandwiches with a spatula to help the cheese adhere and create a compact, delicious sandwich.
Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the sandwiches diagonally and serve immediately while the cheese is still gooey and the chicken remains crisp.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
These sandwiches pair wonderfully with a simple green salad, some crispy potato chips, or even a small side of extra marinara for dipping.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 520
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
Servings: 2 (1 sandwich per person)
Storage Guide
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, use a skillet or oven to help maintain the crispy texture. Avoid using the microwave, as it will make the bread soggy and the chicken lose its crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is more than just a meal – it’s a culinary adventure that bridges the gap between two beloved comfort foods.
The crispy chicken, melted cheese, and tangy marinara create a symphony of flavors that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
It’s a perfect recipe for a lazy weekend lunch, a casual dinner, or an impressive appetizer that’s sure to wow your guests.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the recipe. Try different types of bread, add some fresh arugula for a peppery kick, or swap out the marinara for a homemade tomato sauce.
Cooking is all about creativity and personal taste, so make this recipe your own!
Bon Appétit!
