Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

When you’re craving a comforting meal that doesn’t require hours of preparation, this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is your go-to dish. Combining the crispy, golden goodness of breaded chicken patties with the melted richness of provolone cheese, marinara sauce, and a touch of Parmesan, this meal is a quick and easy take on the classic chicken Parmesan. Perfect for a busy weeknight or when you need a satisfying lunch or dinner, this recipe delivers all the flavors you love in a grilled cheese sandwich, with the added bonus of crispy chicken and gooey cheese. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe will become a family favorite in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe takes only about 20 minutes to prepare, making it a great option when you’re in a rush but still want something flavorful.

2. Comforting and Satisfying

The combination of crispy chicken, melted cheese, and marinara sauce is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any time you need a delicious pick-me-up.

3. Perfect for Busy Nights

With frozen breaded chicken patties as the base, you can skip the lengthy preparation time and get straight to making the sandwich.

4. Family-Friendly

This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike. It’s a fun twist on traditional grilled cheese that’s perfect for any age group.

5. Customizable

Feel free to tweak the recipe with your favorite marinara sauce, cheeses, or even add extra veggies to make it your own.

Ingredients

• 2 frozen breaded chicken patties (such as Tyson®)
• 2 tablespoons garlic butter, or to taste
• 4 slices Italian bread
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• ½ teaspoon dried basil, or to taste
• 1 pinch garlic salt, or to taste
• 6 thin slices provolone cheese
• 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese

Variations

• Add Veggies: Try adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers inside the sandwich for a healthy twist.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce to bring some heat to the dish.
• Different Cheeses: Substitute provolone with mozzarella or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a unique twist on the classic flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken Patties

Heat the frozen breaded chicken patties according to the instructions on the package, typically in the oven or air fryer. This should take about 15-20 minutes, depending on the cooking method.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

While the chicken is cooking, spread the garlic butter on one side of each slice of Italian bread. The garlic butter will add extra flavor and help achieve that perfect golden crust.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

Once the chicken patties are cooked, place one patty on two slices of bread. Spoon a tablespoon of marinara sauce onto each chicken patty, then top with two slices of provolone cheese. Sprinkle a pinch of dried basil and garlic salt for extra flavor. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top of the provolone for that authentic Chicken Parmesan taste.

Step 4: Grill the Sandwich

Place the assembled sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat, buttered sides facing out. Grill the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once your Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is ready, cut it in half and serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Crispier Chicken: For an extra crispy chicken patty, consider air frying the chicken instead of baking it.
• Butter the Bread Generously: The garlic butter adds a lot of flavor, so be generous when spreading it on the bread for grilling.
• Use Fresh Mozzarella: If you prefer fresh mozzarella, it can be a great substitute for the provolone slices, giving your sandwich a deliciously melty texture.

How to Serve

This dish is best served with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with a bowl of extra marinara sauce for dipping, or a side of roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or on a skillet for a few minutes to maintain the crispy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked sandwiches for up to 1 month. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in a freezer bag.

Reheating

To reheat, place the sandwich on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen breaded patties?

Yes, you can use fresh, cooked chicken cutlets, but it will add extra prep time. You can bread and cook them yourself or purchase pre-cooked chicken breast.

2. Can I use a different type of bread?

Definitely! Feel free to use any bread you prefer, such as sourdough, whole wheat, or even a gluten-free option.

3. Can I make this recipe without garlic butter?

You can substitute regular butter or olive oil if you prefer, but garlic butter gives it a unique flavor that enhances the overall taste.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses will also work well in this recipe.

5. How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use whole grain bread, low-fat cheese, and a lighter ranch or homemade sauce to reduce the calorie content while maintaining flavor.

6. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of spicy marinara sauce to bring some heat to the sandwich.

7. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and grill the sandwiches just before serving for the crispiest results.

8. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can use a veggie patty or breaded tofu as a substitute for the chicken if you want a vegetarian version.

9. What is the best way to reheat the sandwich?

Reheat the sandwich in a skillet or oven for the best results. Avoid microwaving it as it can make the bread soggy.

10. How many servings does this recipe make?

The recipe makes 2 servings, but you can easily double it to serve more people.

Conclusion

The Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a fun twist. This recipe combines all the best flavors of chicken Parmesan into an easy-to-make grilled cheese sandwich. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend treat, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy it as-is or get creative with your favorite additions – either way, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

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