If you love the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan but want something quick and effortlessly delicious, then you are going to adore this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe. It takes all the best parts of your favorite Italian-American classic—melty mozzarella, savory chicken, tangy marinara, and a crisp, buttery bread crust—and turns it into a sandwich that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or anytime a craving strikes. This recipe is perfect for when you want that cozy, gooey goodness without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient has a specific role, whether it’s building flavor, adding texture, or creating that irresistible golden crust. You probably have most of these staples right in your kitchen, making this dish super accessible and lightning fast to throw together.
- 2 slices of sourdough or Italian bread: Choose something sturdy with a good crust to hold all the fillings and crisp up nicely in the pan.
- 1 tablespoon softened butter: Ensures the bread browns perfectly and develops a rich, buttery flavor.
- 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken: Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for juiciness and protein-packed goodness.
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce: Adds that classic tomato tang that ties the flavors together.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and provides that gooey, stretchy cheese pull we all crave.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharpness and a touch of umami to balance the richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle kick that amplifies the savory notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that transport you right to the heart of Italian flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple but essential, to make every ingredient shine.
How to Make Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Butter
Start by softening your butter so it’s easy to spread. Then, generously butter one side of each slice of bread; this will become the golden, crispy exterior. The butter is the secret weapon that creates that perfect grill and adds a buttery crunch every bite deserves.
Step 2: Build Your Sandwich Filling
Flip one slice over so the unbuttered side faces up, then layer on the shredded chicken evenly. Spoon the marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure to cover every bit to keep every bite saucy and flavorful. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly, followed by a generous shake of Parmesan cheese for that bold cheesy hit. Don’t forget to add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper—these seasonings bring the whole sandwich to life.
Step 3: Assemble and Cook the Sandwich
Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out. Warm a skillet over medium heat and carefully place your sandwich in the pan. Cook it slowly for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, patiently letting the bread achieve a deep golden color while the cheese melts into dreaminess. Keep the heat moderate to prevent burning while ensuring that luscious filling melts thoroughly.
Step 4: Let It Rest and Slice
Once cooked, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it rest for a minute or two. This short pause lets everything set slightly, making it easier to slice without all the gooey cheese oozing out everywhere. Then cut your sandwich in half and get ready to dive into cheesy, savory heaven.
How to Serve Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top or tucked inside add a bright, herbal contrast to the rich cheese and tomato flavors. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan before serving adds an elegant touch and a hit of salty savory goodness.
Side Dishes
This grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette for a fresh counterpoint, or some crunchy baked fries for a classic fulfilling meal. Tomato soup is also a natural companion, turning your meal into a nostalgic, cozy experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress or simply change things up, serve your sandwich with toothpicks holding each half together alongside small ramekins of marinara sauce for dipping. Or cut the sandwich into smaller finger-friendly pieces and serve as a fun appetizer at gatherings or casual dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese in foil or airtight containers and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 2 days, making it easy to enjoy later without losing that fresh grilled cheese feel.
Freezing
This sandwich can be frozen, but for best results, freeze it unbuttered and ungrilled. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling it fresh for that perfect crispy texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftover grilled cheese in a skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave. This method revives the crunch and melts the cheese perfectly. Cover the pan loosely to help heat everything through evenly without drying out the bread.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sourdough or Italian bread works best for its texture and flavor, you can experiment with whole wheat, ciabatta, or even a sturdy white bread, just make sure it holds up well to grilling.
What type of chicken works best in the Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe?
Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, but any cooked chicken will work. Grilled, roasted, or even breaded chicken can be used, giving you flexibility depending on what you have on hand.
Can I add other cheeses in place of mozzarella?
Definitely! Provolone, fontina, or even a mild cheddar can be delicious substitutes. Each will bring a slightly different twist to the flavors while still melting nicely.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra mushrooms, roasted veggies, or even some spinach for a veggie-packed version of this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe.
How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Butter the bread generously and grill on medium heat to create a crisp crust. Also, avoid using too much marinara sauce to keep the sandwich from becoming soggy while guaranteeing a satisfying bite.
Final Thoughts
This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe is the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate—quick, easy, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a hungry crowd, give this recipe a try and savor every melty, crispy, cheesy bite. You might just find it becoming your new favorite go-to for those busy days when you want something that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen but really took minutes.
Print
Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a quick and delicious twist on classic comfort food. Combining shredded cooked chicken, marinara sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, this sandwich is pan-grilled to golden perfection. It’s perfect for an easy lunch or a satisfying dinner, melding cheesy, savory flavors with the crispy texture of toasted sourdough bread.
Ingredients
Sandwich Ingredients
- 2 slices of sourdough or Italian bread
- 1 tablespoon softened butter
- 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftover)
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Butter the bread: Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread. This will help create a crispy, golden crust when grilled.
- Assemble the sandwich: On the unbuttered side of one bread slice, layer the shredded chicken evenly. Spoon the marinara sauce over the chicken, then sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for balanced flavor.
- Close the sandwich: Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side facing outward to the skillet.
- Heat the skillet: Warm a skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat to ensure even toasting without burning.
- Cook the sandwich: Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on one side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Carefully flip and cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes until golden and cheese is fully melted.
- Serve: Remove the sandwich from the skillet, let it cool for a minute, then slice in half and serve warm.
Notes
- Use any cooked chicken: grilled, breaded, or rotisserie for convenience.
- Add fresh basil leaves inside the sandwich for an aromatic lift.
- Swap mozzarella for provolone cheese to vary the flavor profile.
- Be careful not to cook on too high heat to prevent burning the bread before cheese melts.
