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

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Introduction

This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is the perfect quick and comforting meal. Combining crispy chicken patties with melted cheese and savory marinara sauce makes for an easy twist on a classic favorite. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.

The image shows a close-up of a toasted sandwich cut in half and stacked. The sandwich has two layers of golden brown toasted bread with a crunchy texture. Between the bread layers, there is melted white cheese stretching out, mixed with a layer of red tomato sauce and some green herbs sprinkled on top. The sandwich is placed on a wooden surface with a blurred warm background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the frozen breaded chicken patties according to the package instructions, either using the oven or an air fryer, until they’re fully heated and crispy.
Step 2: While the chicken cooks, spread garlic butter on one side of each slice of Italian bread.
Step 3: Once the patties are cooked, place one patty on the unbuttered side of two bread slices. Spoon marinara sauce over the patties, then sprinkle with dried basil and a pinch of garlic salt.
Step 4: Layer 3 slices of provolone cheese on top of each patty, then sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the provolone.
Step 5: Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side facing out. Place the sandwiches buttered side down on a hot skillet or griddle.
Step 6: Grill the sandwiches until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted, about 2-4 minutes per side. Flip carefully to avoid spilling the filling.
Step 7: Remove from the skillet, slice in half, and serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes inside the sandwich before grilling.
Swap the Italian bread for sourdough or ciabatta for a different texture.
Use fresh mozzarella instead of provolone for a creamier melt.
If you prefer, replace the frozen patties with leftover cooked chicken seasoned with Italian herbs.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven to maintain the bread’s crispiness and melt the cheese evenly. Avoid microwaving as it may make the bread soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows a grilled sandwich cut in half and stacked, with melted white cheese stretching between the layers. The sandwich bread is golden brown and crispy, with a slightly shiny toasted surface. Inside, there is a layer of white melted cheese and a red sauce beneath it, slightly oozing out. Green herbs sprinkle on top and between the layers, adding a touch of color. The sandwich pieces rest on a white marbled surface with soft lighting highlighting the texture of the bread and cheese. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen patties?

Yes, you can use cooked fresh chicken breasts or thighs. Simply season them with Italian herbs, cook thoroughly, and use them in place of the frozen patties.

Is it possible to make this sandwich vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute the chicken patties with grilled or breaded eggplant slices or a plant-based chicken alternative to keep the flavors delicious and vegetarian-friendly.