Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese (Print Version)

Crispy chicken, marinara, and melted cheese layered between buttery bread for an Italian-American classic.

# Components:

→ For the Chicken

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
03 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
04 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
05 - 1 large egg
06 - 1 tablespoon water
07 - 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
08 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)

→ For the Sandwich

10 - 8 slices sourdough or Italian bread
11 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
12 - 1 cup marinara sauce
13 - 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
14 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
15 - Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

# Directions:

01 - Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to 1/2-inch thickness. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
02 - Set up three shallow dishes: one with all-purpose flour, a second with a whisked mixture of egg and water, and a third containing a blend of Italian-style breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
03 - Dredge each seasoned chicken breast in the flour, ensuring full coverage. Next, dip it into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere.
04 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer to a cutting board. Slice the chicken into pieces that will fit comfortably within the bread slices.
05 - Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. Arrange four bread slices, butter-side down, on a clean work surface. Layer each with a portion of the sliced chicken, followed by 2-3 tablespoons of marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Top each sandwich with a remaining bread slice, butter-side up.
06 - Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches onto the hot surface. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
07 - Slice the grilled sandwiches in half. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand
  • Combines two comfort food classics into one incredible sandwich
  • Perfect balance of crispy chicken, tangy sauce, and melty cheese
02 -
  • Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and tender meat
  • The sandwich tastes best when the bread is golden and crispy
  • Using both mozzarella and Parmesan creates the perfect cheese blend
  • These sandwiches are substantial enough to serve as a complete meal
03 -
  • Use room temperature butter for easy spreading that won't tear the bread
  • Grate your own cheese rather than using pre shredded for superior melting
  • Press the sandwich gently while cooking for even browning and optimal cheese melt
  • Allow the sandwich to rest for 1 to 2 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices and to avoid burning your mouth on the molten cheese
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