Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches: A Comforting Classic

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the warm, gooey goodness of a Chicken Parmesan Sandwich. This recipe has become a family favorite in our home, bringing smiles and satisfied bellies to the dinner table. The crispy chicken cutlets, melty mozzarella, and flavorful pesto mayo all come together in a toasted ciabatta bun to create a mouthwatering experience. Whether you’re looking for a cozy lunch or a satisfying dinner, these sandwiches deliver on every front. Each bite bursts with flavor, and the kids love helping out in the kitchen, especially when it comes to the fun of breading the chicken. If you’re ready to elevate your sandwich game, let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thin cut)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 1 tsp each salt, pepper, and garlic powder
• 4 ciabatta buns
• 1 cup pasta sauce (your favorite)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup pesto sauce
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Spray the foil with nonstick spray to ensure your chicken doesn’t stick.

Set Up Breading Station

In three shallow dishes, prepare your breading station:

1. Dish 1: Whisk the eggs until frothy.
2. Dish 2: Mix flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Dish 3: Combine panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Finally, press the chicken into the panko-Parmesan mixture, making sure it’s well-coated. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Chicken

Bake the chicken for 20 minutes. Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and spoon pasta sauce over each breast. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top, then return the chicken to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Prepare Pesto Mayo

In a small bowl, mix together the pesto sauce and mayonnaise until combined. This creamy spread adds a delightful twist to your sandwiches.

Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Spread the pesto mayo on the bottom half of each ciabatta bun.
2. Add a bit of extra pasta sauce to the top half of the buns for added flavor.
3. Place the baked chicken on the bottom bun, then cover with the top half.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and enjoy your comforting Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 550

Approximate Nutrition per Serving

• Calories: 550
• Total Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 140mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 40g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with crispy fries for a classic comfort meal.
• Add some roasted vegetables for a nutritious twist.
• Serve with extra pasta sauce for dipping.

Additional Tips

1. Add Fresh Herbs: Top your sandwiches with fresh basil or parsley for an extra flavor boost.
2. Make it Crunchy: Toast the ciabatta buns before assembling for a crunchier sandwich.
3. Air Fryer Option: Cook the chicken in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Mix It Up: Experiment with different types of cheese, like provolone or gouda, for a unique flavor profile.
5. Make It Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the pasta sauce for a spicy kick.

Recipe Variations

• Chicken Parmesan Sub: Use a sub roll instead of ciabatta for a traditional sub sandwich.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for eggplant or zucchini slices, breaded and baked until crispy.
• Cheesy Spinach Stuffing: Add sautéed spinach and ricotta cheese to the chicken before baking for a cheesy, flavorful addition.
• Buffalo Chicken Version: Replace the pasta sauce with buffalo sauce for a spicy twist on this classic.

Serving Suggestions

• Salads: Pair your sandwich with a Caesar or mixed greens salad for a light complement.
• Soups: A side of tomato basil soup pairs beautifully with these sandwiches.
• Chips: Serve with kettle-cooked chips for an added crunch.
• Pickles: Add a side of pickles for a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the sandwich.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover chicken Parmesan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken cutlets before assembling the sandwiches. To do so, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to use them.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

• Yes, chicken thighs work well and can add extra flavor and juiciness.

1. What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?

• You can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko gives a lighter, crispier texture.

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

• Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish gluten-free.

1. How do I know when the chicken is done?

• The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

1. Can I prepare this sandwich in advance?

• You can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

• Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or use a microwave if you’re short on time.

1. Is there a dairy-free option?

• Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and omit the Parmesan cheese.

1. Can I use store-bought pesto?

• Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver.

1. How can I add more vegetables?

• You can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the chicken mixture before baking.

1. What is the best way to toast ciabatta buns?
   • You can toast them in a skillet or under a broiler until golden brown.

Conclusion

These Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches are not just a meal; they’re an experience filled with comforting flavors and textures. With crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and a unique pesto mayo, this sandwich is sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or any time you crave a hearty bite, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor each delicious bite of this homemade Italian-inspired classic! Enjoy!

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