Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe

Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe: Cozy Comfort Magic

Comfort food takes a delightful twist with this lazy chicken parmesan grilled cheese that promises pure culinary magic.

Melted cheese, crispy chicken, and golden bread create an irresistible combination that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Weeknight dinners never looked so good with this simple yet mouthwatering mashup.

The classic Italian-American flavors merge seamlessly into a quick sandwich that delivers maximum satisfaction.

You’ll love how effortlessly this recipe comes together with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.

Each bite promises a perfect blend of crunchy, cheesy goodness that transforms an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

Grab a plate and prepare for a seriously delicious adventure that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs

  • What makes this chicken parmesan grilled cheese different from traditional grilled cheese?

This recipe combines two classic comfort foods – chicken parmesan and grilled cheese – into one delicious sandwich, offering a unique twist with marinara-coated chicken and multiple cheese layers.

  • Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various bread types like sourdough, Italian bread, or ciabatta. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the filling and can crisp up nicely when grilled.

  • How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the chicken for an extra kick of heat. You can also use a spicy marinara sauce as an alternative.

Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese: Flavor Highlights

  • Simplify Comfort Meal: Transforms classic chicken parmesan into a quick, handheld grilled cheese that delivers maximum flavor with minimal kitchen effort.
  • Customize with Ease: Allows flexible ingredient swaps like different cheese types, bread varieties, or adding extra toppings to match personal taste preferences.
  • Quick Weeknight Wonder: Perfect for busy households needing a delicious dinner solution that combines protein, cheese, and classic Italian-inspired flavors in one satisfying sandwich.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Fusion: Merges two beloved comfort foods – chicken parmesan and grilled cheese – creating an irresistible dish that appeals to both kids and adults.

Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Grocery List

Main Proteins:
  • Shredded Chicken: A tender and flavorful protein that serves as the primary filling for the sandwich.
  • Provolone Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Creamy and melty cheeses that provide rich texture and classic Italian flavor.
Bread and Spread:
  • Bread Slices: A soft and sturdy base that becomes crispy and golden when grilled.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a perfectly golden-brown exterior when grilled.
  • Garlic Powder: Provides a subtle, aromatic seasoning to enhance the bread's flavor.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: Offers a sharp, salty accent to the sandwich's exterior.
Sauce and Garnish:
  • Marinara Sauce: A classic Italian tomato sauce that coats the chicken and adds moisture and tangy flavor.
  • Fresh Basil: A fragrant herb that adds a fresh, bright note to the finished sandwich.

How To Make Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Craft Flavorful Chicken Mixture

Warm marinara sauce in a skillet and toss in shredded chicken.

Stir thoroughly until chicken gets a luxurious sauce coating and heats completely through.

Step 2: Elevate Your Bread Game

Generously spread softened butter across bread slices.

Sprinkle:
  • Garlic powder
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Over the buttered surface for an explosive flavor boost.

Step 3: Build Your Sandwich Masterpiece

Layer sandwich components in this delightful order:
  • Provolone cheese slice on unbuttered bread side
  • Saucy chicken scoop
  • Shredded mozzarella
  • Another provolone cheese slice

Crown with second bread slice, butter side facing outward.

Step 4: Grill to Golden Perfection

Heat skillet or griddle over medium temperature.

Grill sandwiches 3-4 minutes per side until bread transforms into golden-brown crispy heaven and cheese melts into creamy bliss.

Step 5: Serve with Flair

Optional: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves for elegant finishing touch.

Slice diagonally and serve piping hot, ready to delight taste buds.

Pro Moves For Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

  • Sprinkle garlic powder and Parmesan on buttered bread for an extra punch of savory goodness that elevates the entire sandwich.
  • Use medium heat to ensure even cheese melting without burning the bread, creating that irresistible gooey texture.
  • Drain excess marinara to prevent soggy bread, keeping the sandwich crisp and easy to handle.
  • Replace chicken with leftover turkey, pulled pork, or plant-based protein for a versatile meal that adapts to your preferences.
  • Alternate provolone and mozzarella for a rich, complex cheese profile that adds depth to every bite.

Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Switch-Ups

  • Vegetarian Parmesan Grilled Cheese: Replace chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or crispy tofu slices for a meat-free version that maintains the rich, savory flavor profile.
  • Spicy Southwest Grilled Cheese: Swap marinara sauce with salsa, add shredded rotisserie chicken, pepper jack cheese, and sprinkle with chili powder for a zesty southwestern kick.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread and ensure all cheese and marinara sauce are certified gluten-free for those with wheat sensitivities while keeping the original recipe's core flavors intact.
  • Low-Carb Keto Version: Substitute bread with large cheese crisps or low-carb tortillas, use rotisserie chicken, and maintain the original cheese and marinara proportions for a carb-conscious alternative.

Fresh Serving Inspiration: Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

  • Comfort Companion: Pair this grilled cheese with a crisp green salad to balance the rich, cheesy flavors and add a fresh crunch.
  • Game Night Hero: Slice the sandwich into smaller bite-sized pieces for an irresistible appetizer perfect for casual gatherings or sports watching.
  • Italian Dipping Delight: Serve with extra warm marinara sauce on the side for guests who love dunking their sandwich and enjoying extra sauce.
  • Weekend Brunch Twist: Add a sunny-side-up egg on top for a decadent weekend breakfast version that transforms the sandwich into a more substantial meal.

Storing Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Leftovers

  • Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
  • Carefully wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Label with the date to track storage time.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Unwrap frozen sandwich and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even heating and crispy exterior.
Print
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Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe

Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe


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4.6 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 1 1x

Description

Lazy chicken parmesan grilled cheese delivers comfort food magic in minutes. Melted cheese, crispy chicken, and marinara sauce create a quick indulgence you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Cheese:

  • 1/2 cup cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
  • 1/2 cup shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Bread and Spread:

  • 2 slices of thick-cut bread (Italian, sourdough, or any sturdy bread)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup marinara sauce

Optional Toppings:

  • Fresh basil or parsley (chopped)
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Garlic powder or Italian seasoning
  • Extra marinara sauce (for dipping)

Instructions

  1. Warm marinara sauce in a skillet and fold in shredded chicken, ensuring the meat is thoroughly heated and evenly coated with sauce.
  2. Generously spread softened butter across one side of each bread slice, then dust with garlic powder and sprinkle grated Parmesan for enhanced flavor profile.
  3. Layer sandwich components strategically: place provolone cheese directly on unbuttered bread surface, add a generous portion of saucy chicken, scatter mozzarella for extra meltiness, and crown with another provolone slice.
  4. Complete sandwich assembly by placing second bread slice on top, ensuring buttered exterior faces outward for optimal golden-brown crisping.
  5. Preheat skillet or griddle to medium temperature, carefully positioning sandwich and grilling approximately 3-4 minutes per side until bread transforms into a crispy, golden-brown exterior and cheese melts luxuriously.
  6. Remove from heat, optionally garnish with fresh basil leaves for aromatic finish, slice diagonally, and serve immediately while cheese remains delightfully gooey.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter for easier spreading and more even browning on the bread’s surface.
  • Mix different cheese varieties like sharp provolone and creamy mozzarella for a more complex flavor profile.
  • For a lighter version, swap regular bread with whole wheat or gluten-free options and use lean chicken breast.
  • Try adding crispy bacon bits or sliced jalapeños inside the sandwich for extra texture and heat.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 670 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 940 mg
  • Fat: 40 g
  • Saturated Fat: 22 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 45 g
  • Cholesterol: 135 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.


Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

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