Name: Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 slices Italian bread; 2 tablespoons butter, softened; 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced; 1/2 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon dried basil; 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Why You’ll Love Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe

This sandwich delivers the best of both worlds: the simplicity of a grilled cheese and the bold flavors of a traditional Italian chicken Parmesan. It’s quick to make, family-friendly, and a great way to use up leftover chicken. With the blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, a touch of herbs, and warm marinara sauce, every bite is full of flavor. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 slices Italian bread
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced
1/2 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Butter one side of each slice of bread.
Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
Divide the cooked chicken evenly between the two slices of bread.
Spoon marinara sauce over the chicken.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
Season with garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side facing up.
Place the sandwiches in the skillet or griddle.
Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Remove from heat, slice if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2 sandwiches
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
Total Time: 16–18 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a slice of pepper jack cheese.
Crispy Chicken: Use breaded chicken cutlets instead of plain cooked chicken.
Cheese Lovers: Add provolone or cheddar for extra cheesiness.
Veggie Boost: Include sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
Garlic Bread Style: Use garlic butter instead of plain butter on the bread for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Wrap leftover sandwiches in foil or place in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating:
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through and crispy again. You can also use a toaster oven or air fryer to maintain the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

FAQs

What kind of bread works best for this sandwich?

Italian bread is recommended for its sturdy texture and flavor, but sourdough or thick white bread also work well.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor.

Is it okay to use jarred marinara sauce?

Absolutely. Use your favorite brand or homemade if you have it on hand.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but it’s best cooked fresh to keep the bread crispy.

What cheeses melt best for this recipe?

Mozzarella is ideal for meltiness, and Parmesan adds sharpness. Provolone also works great.

How do I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?

Make sure not to overdo the sauce and use a hot skillet to crisp the bread quickly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, eggplant, or a plant-based meat alternative.

What can I serve with this sandwich?

It pairs well with a side salad, soup, fries, or roasted vegetables.

Can I freeze this sandwich?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the bread may suffer when thawed and reheated.

How do I make it more filling?

Add another layer of chicken and cheese or serve with a hearty side dish.

Conclusion

This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a comfort food mash-up that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With crispy bread, gooey cheese, savory marinara, and flavorful chicken, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s easy to customize and even easier to love. Whether for lunch, dinner, or a casual get-together, it’s a delicious twist on two timeless classics.

Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese