Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Introduction

There’s something truly comforting about a classic grilled cheese sandwich, and when you throw in the flavors of Chicken Parmesan, it becomes a game-changer. This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a delightful twist on a beloved Italian dish, transforming it into a quick and easy sandwich that’s perfect for busy weeknights. My family was blown away by how simple yet flavorful this recipe is. Using frozen chicken patties means you can whip this up in just 35 minutes, making it an excellent option for those nights when cooking feels like a chore. We enjoyed each gooey bite, and I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Ingredients

• 2 frozen breaded chicken patties (such as Tyson®)
• 2 tablespoons garlic butter (or to taste)
• 4 slices Italian bread
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (or to taste)
• Pinch of garlic salt (or to taste)
• 6 thin slices provolone cheese
• 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Bake the Chicken Patties

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the frozen chicken patties on a baking sheet and bake until crispy and cooked through, about 20 minutes.
3. Once cooked, cut each chicken patty in half lengthwise.

Prepare the Marinara Sauce

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, mix the marinara sauce, dried basil, and garlic salt.
2. Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute until warm. Stir well.

Assemble the Sandwich

1. Spread garlic butter on one side of each slice of bread.
2. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, into a skillet over medium heat.
3. Layer with 2 slices of provolone cheese, 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce, 2 halves of the chicken patty, 2 more tablespoons of marinara sauce, another slice of provolone cheese, and the second slice of bread (butter side up).

Grill the Sandwich

1. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted.
2. Repeat for the second sandwich.

Serve with Parmesan Marinara

1. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over any remaining marinara sauce and serve alongside each sandwich for dipping.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 2
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 1150mg
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Garnish: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the sandwiches before serving.
• Dip: Serve with warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
• Pair: Great with a simple side salad or crispy potato fries.

Additional Tips

1. Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix up the cheeses; mozzarella or even cheddar can work well.
2. Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a kick.
4. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or oregano can elevate the flavor of the sauce.
5. Cook on Low Heat: To prevent burning, consider cooking the sandwiches on lower heat for a longer time, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly.

Recipe Variations

• Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese: Substitute chicken patties with buffalo chicken patties and use blue cheese dressing instead of marinara.
• Veggie Version: Swap out the chicken for grilled vegetables like zucchini and eggplant, adding more marinara and cheese.
• Pesto Chicken Grilled Cheese: Use pesto sauce in place of marinara for a herby twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside homemade potato wedges or sweet potato fries.
• Enjoy with a side of garlic bread for extra indulgence.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze assembled but uncooked sandwiches. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen for a few extra minutes.
• Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen patties?
   Yes, just cook the chicken breast until fully cooked, then slice and assemble as directed.
2. What type of bread can I use?
   Italian, sourdough, or even whole wheat bread work well.
3. Is there a vegetarian option?
   Yes, you can use vegetable patties or skip the meat entirely and load up on veggies and cheese.
4. Can I prepare this in advance?
   While best served fresh, you can prepare the filling ahead and assemble the sandwiches just before grilling.
5. How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
   Use less marinara sauce inside the sandwich, or add it as a dipping sauce instead.
6. What other cheeses can I use?
   Mozzarella, gouda, or even cheddar can be delicious alternatives.
7. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
   Absolutely! Homemade marinara adds a personal touch and fresh flavor.
8. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
   Yes, kids generally love cheesy, crispy sandwiches.
9. Can I add other seasonings?
   Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings in the marinara sauce or chicken mixture.
10. How do I reheat leftovers?
    Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain crispness, or use an air fryer for a few minutes.

Conclusion

Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Chicken Parmesan without the hassle of traditional preparation. It’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious—perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With the crispy exterior and gooey cheese filling, this sandwich is bound to become a family favorite. Try it out, and watch as it quickly becomes a go-to meal in your household!

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