Chicken Parmesan grilled cheese sandwich

Here’s a delicious recipe for a Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich that combines the flavors of chicken parmesan with the comfort of a grilled cheese sandwich. It’s cheesy, crispy, and absolutely satisfying!

Ingredients (Serves 2)

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or use pre-cooked chicken cutlets for convenience)
• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 slices of bread (Italian, sourdough, or your favorite type)
• 2 tablespoons butter (softened, for spreading)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-seasoned or plain)
• 1 egg (beaten, for breading)
• 1/4 cup flour (for breading)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. If using raw chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch thick) using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Set up a breading station: Place flour in one bowl, beaten egg in another, and breadcrumbs in a third.
4. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in the egg, and coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Cook the breaded chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich

1. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on one side of each bread slice.
2. On two slices of bread, layer shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
3. Place a cooked chicken breast on top of the cheese.
4. Add another layer of mozzarella and Parmesan on top of the chicken.
5. Top with the remaining bread slices (marinara side facing inward).

Step 3: Grill the Sandwich

1. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
2. Spread softened butter on the outer sides of each sandwich.
3. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Press gently with a spatula to help the sandwich hold together.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute.
2. Slice in half and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
3. Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Enjoy your Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich! It’s a perfect fusion of two classic dishes that’s sure to become a favorite. 😊