Name: Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 frozen breaded chicken patties (such as Tyson®); 2 tablespoons garlic butter (or to taste); 4 slices Italian bread; 1 cup marinara sauce; ½ teaspoon dried basil (or to taste); 1 pinch garlic salt (or to taste); 6 thin slices provolone cheese; 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe

There are days when you want a comforting, flavorful meal, but you don’t have the energy or time for complicated preparations. That’s where this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese comes in—combining all the delicious flavors of classic chicken parmesan with the simplicity and ease of a grilled cheese sandwich. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste or comfort. The crispy breaded chicken patties are paired with gooey, melted provolone cheese and topped with savory marinara sauce, all nestled between slices of buttery, toasted Italian bread. It’s a fantastic fusion of two favorites, creating a hearty meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this dish is sure to please with its crispy exterior, melty cheese, and rich flavors. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend lunch, this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is the kind of dish that brings comfort without a fuss. Read on to learn how easy it is to make this indulgent yet simple recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe uses frozen breaded chicken patties, cutting down the preparation time dramatically. You can enjoy a delicious meal in less than 30 minutes!

2. Comfort Food at Its Best

It’s like eating chicken parmesan but in the form of a sandwich. Crispy, cheesy, and satisfying—perfect for when you’re craving comfort food.

3. Familiar Ingredients

The ingredients are simple and easy to find. Most of the items are kitchen staples, making this recipe perfect for a last-minute meal.

4. Great for All Ages

Kids and adults alike will love this recipe. It’s an easy way to get a meal on the table that’s sure to satisfy everyone in the family.

5. Customizable

This recipe can be tweaked with different cheeses, seasonings, or bread options. You can make it your own by adding extra toppings or flavors to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Frozen breaded chicken patties (such as Tyson®)
Garlic butter
Italian bread
Marinara sauce
Dried basil
Garlic salt
Provolone cheese
Shredded Parmesan cheese

Variations

Cheese Swap: Feel free to swap provolone with mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a different twist on the flavor.
Spicy Version: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
Different Breads: Use sourdough, whole wheat, or ciabatta instead of Italian bread for a different texture and flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken patties and use grilled vegetables or veggie patties for a vegetarian version of this sandwich.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cook the frozen breaded chicken patties according to the package instructions, typically in the oven or air fryer. Ensure they are golden and crispy.

Step 2: Toast the Bread

While the chicken is cooking, heat a pan over medium heat and spread garlic butter on both sides of the slices of Italian bread. Toast them in the pan until they are golden and crispy.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

Once the chicken patties are done and the bread is toasted, spread a layer of marinara sauce on one side of each slice of toasted bread. Place a chicken patty on top of the sauce.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Layer provolone cheese slices over the chicken patties and sprinkle shredded Parmesan on top.

Step 5: Grill the Sandwich

Place the two halves of the sandwich together and grill for another minute or two on low heat, allowing the cheese to melt and the sandwich to heat through. Press down gently with a spatula for a crispier result.

Step 6: Serve

Once the cheese is melted and everything is perfectly toasted, remove from the pan, slice, and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

For an extra burst of flavor, add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or oregano to the chicken before assembling the sandwich.
If you prefer a more decadent sandwich, add a layer of ricotta or cream cheese along with the marinara.
Make sure the bread is adequately buttered to ensure a crispy, golden crust.
You can substitute store-bought marinara with homemade or your favorite jarred version to elevate the flavor.

How to Serve

This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese can be served with a side of crispy fries, a simple salad, or even a side of extra marinara sauce for dipping. You can also pair it with a glass of wine or iced tea for the perfect lunch or dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply toast in a pan or reheat in the oven until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy again.

Freezing

Although this recipe is best fresh, you can freeze the individual components. Cook the chicken patties and store them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and assemble the sandwich as usual.

Reheating

To reheat a full sandwich, wrap it in foil and heat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen breaded chicken patties?

Yes, you can! Just ensure the chicken is cooked through before adding it to the sandwich.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with a veggie patty or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly option.

3. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Absolutely! Mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of Italian cheeses can all be used instead of provolone.

4. How can I make this sandwich spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle chili powder on the chicken for some extra heat.

5. Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, feel free to swap Italian bread for sourdough, ciabatta, or whole wheat bread, depending on your preference.

6. How can I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?

Make sure to toast the bread well and avoid overloading the sandwich with sauce. You can also use less marinara or spread it only on one side of the bread.

7. How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

8. Can I freeze this sandwich?

It’s best to freeze the individual components (chicken, bread, etc.) separately and assemble the sandwich when ready to eat.

9. How do I reheat a leftover sandwich?

Reheat the sandwich in a pan or in the oven wrapped in foil to restore the crispiness.

10. Can I make this recipe without garlic butter?

Yes, regular butter or olive oil can be used in place of garlic butter if desired.

Conclusion

Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is the ultimate solution for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal. With its crispy chicken, melty cheese, and savory marinara sauce, this recipe brings all the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan in a convenient sandwich form. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend lunch, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. It’s simple, customizable, and delicious—what’s not to love?