Chicken Parm Grilled Cheese (Printable version)

A delicious fusion combining crispy chicken parmesan with classic grilled cheese, featuring marinara and melted mozzarella on garlicky bread.

# What You Need:

→ For the Crispy Chicken

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10 - Vegetable oil for frying

→ For the Sandwich

11 - 8 slices Italian bread or sourdough
12 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
13 - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
14 - 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
15 - 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
16 - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, optional

# Step-by-step guide:

01 - Slice each chicken breast horizontally in half to create 4 thin, even cutlets approximately 1/4 inch thick.
02 - Arrange three shallow bowls in sequence: fill the first with flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
03 - Dredge each chicken cutlet thoroughly in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into beaten egg, and finally coat generously with the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
04 - Heat approximately 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry breaded chicken cutlets for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
05 - In a small bowl, thoroughly combine softened butter with finely minced garlic. Spread evenly on one side of each bread slice.
06 - Place 4 bread slices buttered side down on a clean work surface. Layer each with a fried chicken cutlet, a spoonful of warmed marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves if desired. Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
07 - Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Grill assembled sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, applying gentle pressure with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is completely melted.
08 - Remove from heat, slice diagonally if desired, and serve immediately while cheese is still warm and melted.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It delivers two beloved comfort foods in one glorious, melty package that satisfies every craving at once.
  • The garlicky butter on the bread adds a layer of flavor that makes each bite feel like a special occasion.
  • You can prep the chicken ahead and assemble sandwiches in minutes when hunger strikes.
  • Leftovers reheat beautifully in a skillet, crisping right back up without getting soggy.
02 -
  • Keep the heat at medium-low when grilling the sandwiches or the bread will burn before the cheese melts.
  • Warm the marinara sauce before assembling so it doesnt cool down the cheese and slow the melting process.
  • Pat the fried chicken dry on paper towels before adding it to the sandwich to avoid sogginess.
  • Dont skip softening the butter, or it will tear the bread when you try to spread it.
03 -
  • Press the sandwiches gently with the spatula while grilling to help the cheese melt faster and create better contact with the pan for even browning.
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, as it holds heat beautifully and gives you the crispiest, most evenly golden crust.
  • Add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the marinara for a subtle kick that balances the richness of the cheese.
  • Let the fried chicken rest for a minute before assembling so the breading sets and stays extra crispy.
Go Back