Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe

Get ready to meet your new go-to comfort food: Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese! This recipe is the glorious marriage of two classics—a crispy, cheesy chicken Parmesan and a golden, melty grilled cheese—yet it’s unbelievably simple to make. Combining breaded chicken patties, savory marinara, gooey provolone, and buttery Italian bread, this sandwich ticks all the boxes for flavor, texture, and pure satisfaction. Whether you’re whipping up an easy weeknight meal or searching for that extra-special lunch, Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese brings all the nostalgia and indulgence you crave, right from your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every component in this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese keeps things effortless without compromising on big, bold flavors. These simple ingredients work together to achieve the perfect crunch, creaminess, and mouthwatering aroma that make this sandwich a true standout for all ages.

• Frozen breaded chicken patties: Pre-made patties save you time and deliver that classic crispy texture—look for brands like Tyson® for best results.
• Garlic butter: Infuses the bread with rich, aromatic flavor and helps achieve a perfectly golden crust.
• Italian bread: The hearty slices not only hold all the fillings but also toast beautifully for that coveted crunch.
• Marinara sauce: Adds a tangy, herby layer that ties in the classic Chicken Parmesan flavor.
• Dried basil: Just a sprinkle brings a fresh, Italian-inspired note to the sauce.
• Garlic salt: Enhances and deepens the savory flavor of both the sauce and the bread.
• Provolone cheese: Melts smoothly and brings plenty of gooeyness to every bite.
• Shredded Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on at the end for a nutty, salty kick—don’t skip it!

How to Make Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Bake the Chicken Patties

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Arrange the frozen breaded chicken patties on a baking sheet, giving them plenty of space so they crisp up all around. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the patties are cooked through and the coating is beautifully crunchy. Once done, take a sharp knife and slice each patty in half lengthwise—this ensures even coverage when you assemble the sandwiches.

Step 2: Prep the Bread

While the chicken is baking, grab your Italian bread and spread garlic butter generously on one side of each slice. This step transforms the bread from ordinary to irresistible, creating a golden, flavorful crust that holds up to all the melty cheese and sauce inside.

Step 3: Warm the Marinara Sauce

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the marinara sauce, dried basil, and a pinch of garlic salt. Stir them together, then pop the bowl into the microwave for 30 seconds to a minute—just until heated through. Give it another quick stir to distribute all the flavors. This little shortcut is a game changer for late-night cravings!

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

Heat a large skillet over medium. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, directly onto the skillet. Next, layer on two slices of provolone cheese, followed by a tablespoon of marinara sauce. Arrange two of the halved chicken patty pieces—overlapping them so the bread gets full coverage. Spoon two more tablespoons of marinara over the chicken, then top with another slice of provolone cheese. Finish with the second slice of bread, buttered side up. Now, let it sizzle until the bread is crisp and golden, and the cheese is oozing—about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Repeat these steps with the remaining ingredients for the second sandwich.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

For a finishing touch, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over any leftover warmed marinara sauce and serve it alongside your freshly grilled sandwiches. This bonus dip makes every bite even saucier and more indulgent—a must-have for true Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese fans!

How to Serve Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Garnishes

A bright sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley right before serving will instantly elevate your sandwich’s look and flavor. A little extra Parmesan dusted over the top for a restaurant-style flourish never hurts, either. If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes just before your first bite.

Side Dishes

Keep it classic with a simple green salad tossed in Italian dressing, or go comfort food all the way with a pile of crispy potato wedges or garlic fries. For a lighter option, a cup of minestrone or tomato soup pairs perfectly with the rich, gooey interior of your Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your sandwiches diagonally and stack them high on a cutting board lined with parchment for a fun, casual presentation—great for sharing. Serve each half perched atop a bed of arugula for a pop of color. Or turn it into party fare by slicing the grilled cheese into thirds and serving with toothpicks for easy, crowd-pleasing bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese, wrap each sandwich snugly in foil or plastic wrap and tuck it into the fridge. It’s best to enjoy them within 2 days for optimal flavor and texture, though the bread may soften slightly as it chills.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze these sandwiches once they’ve cooled completely. Wrap each tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil, then pop them into a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to a month, making them a lifesaver for busy days when you need a quick, homemade meal.

Reheating

To bring your Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese back to its crispy, melty glory, reheat it in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through and the cheese is gooey again. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for about 10 minutes, or until hot and crisp.

FAQs

Can I use homemade chicken cutlets instead of frozen patties?

Absolutely! If you have leftover homemade chicken cutlets, simply bread and bake them as you normally would, then slice to fit your bread. This will give your Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese even more homemade flavor and texture.

What other cheeses work well in this recipe?

While provolone is classic for its meltability and mild flavor, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for extra stretchiness, or even sharp cheddar or fontina for a deeper cheese profile. Mixing cheeses can make each sandwich unique!

Can I make this sandwich in a toaster oven?

Yes, you can! Assemble your sandwiches and toast them in the toaster oven using the “bake” or “toast” function, flipping once halfway through, until the bread is crisp and the cheese is melted.

Is it possible to make this sandwich vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken patties for breaded eggplant cutlets or even thick slices of roasted portobello mushrooms. You’ll still capture all the Italian-inspired flavor in every gooey bite.

What’s the best way to keep the bread from getting soggy?

Spread the sauce sparingly and only onto the cheese layer, not directly on the bread. This creates a barrier, helping the bread remain beautifully crisp on the outside and soft inside—just as a Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese should be!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about the Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese—it’s comfort food that’s both easy and unforgettable. If you’re craving big flavors and minimal effort, this recipe is your ticket to sandwich bliss. Give it a try, and watch it become a new staple in your home!

Print