This Easy Grilled Chicken Parmesan Sandwich is tasty and filling! Juicy chicken is topped with marinara sauce and gooey cheese, all in a crispy bun. Yum!
Whenever I make these sandwiches, I can’t help but enjoy the cheesy goodness. They’re perfect for lunch or dinner, and they’re so easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best here, but you can use thighs for a juicier bite. If you’re looking for a quick option, pre-cooked grilled chicken strips can save you time!
Marinara Sauce: Homemade marinara is great, but store-bought works just as well and saves time. For a twist, try pesto or a spicy marinara. You can even use Alfredo sauce for a creamy alternative!
Cheese: Fresh mozzarella adds that gooey factor. If you can’t find it, use sliced provolone or even cheddar for a different taste. Parmesan is key for flavor, so don’t skip it!
Bread: While rustic or sourdough bread is delicious, any sturdy bread can do the trick. Try ciabatta or a baguette for added crunch, or whole grain for something healthier.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with these simple steps, you can get it just right:
- Butterflying the chicken helps it cook evenly and faster. Use a sharp knife and be careful!
- Seasoning is important. Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Grill on medium-high heat, letting the chicken cook without moving it too much. This builds nice grill marks!
- Check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. A meat thermometer is super helpful!
With these tips, you’ll have juicy grilled chicken, ready to layer into your sandwich in no time!
Easy Grilled Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 slices rustic or sourdough bread
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (about 4-6 leaves)
- Optional: garlic butter (1 tablespoon butter mixed with 1 minced garlic clove)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Your tasty grilled chicken parmesan sandwich will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients, about 10-15 minutes grilling the chicken, and another 5 minutes assembling and cooking the sandwiches. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While that’s heating up, take the chicken breasts and butterfly them (slice them horizontally to make thinner cutlets). This helps them cook faster and more evenly. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for an extra flavor punch!
2. Grill the Chicken:
Lightly brush the chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to keep it from sticking. Grill the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until nice grill marks appear and the chicken is cooked through. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
3. Prepare the Bread:
While the chicken is resting, brush both sides of the slices of rustic or sourdough bread with the remaining olive oil. If you’re feeling a bit fancy, go ahead and spread some garlic butter on the outside for that extra flavor boost!
4. Assemble the Sandwich:
Now, let’s build our sandwich! On a clean skillet or grill pan set over medium heat, take one slice of bread and spread about 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce on it. Place the grilled chicken breast on top, followed by fresh basil leaves, a slice of mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Top it off with the second slice of bread.
5. Grill the Sandwich:
Cook the assembled sandwiches on the skillet or grill pan, pressing down gently with a spatula or using a panini press to help everything melt together. Cook for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the mozzarella is ooey-gooey. If you want the cheese to melt even more, cover the skillet with a lid while cooking.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your sandwiches are done, remove them from the heat and let them cool for a minute before slicing them in half. Serve warm and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness of your grilled chicken parmesan sandwiches!
These sandwiches are sure to be a hit, packed with flavor and cheesy delight!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s important to thaw it completely before grilling. You can do this by transferring the frozen chicken to the fridge overnight or using a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker thaw. Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning to achieve a good sear!
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can grill the chicken and prepare the marinara sauce in advance! Store the grilled chicken in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, assemble the sandwiches and grill them just before serving for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can use sliced provolone or even shredded mozzarella. For a different flavor profile, try pepper jack for a bit of heat or gouda for a smokier taste. Just make sure it melts well!
How Should I Store Leftover Sandwiches?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use a microwave, although the bread won’t stay as crispy.
This FAQ should help clarify some common questions and adjustments while preparing your delicious grilled chicken parmesan sandwich! Enjoy cooking!