Who doesn’t love a good grilled cheese sandwich? Now, imagine combining the classic comfort of a grilled cheese with the hearty flavors of chicken Parmesan. The result? A Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese that’s both delicious and satisfying. This twist on a classic combines crispy breaded chicken patties, gooey provolone cheese, and savory marinara sauce all sandwiched between golden, toasted Italian bread. It’s an easy, quick meal that brings all the best flavors of chicken Parmesan into the palm of your hand.

With minimal prep time and just a few ingredients, this sandwich is the perfect way to elevate your grilled cheese game without a lot of effort. Whether you’re craving something indulgent for lunch or need a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is an unbeatable choice. It’s hearty, flavorful, and bound to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Super Quick and Easy

This recipe requires minimal preparation and can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days when you want something delicious but don’t have much time.

2. Classic Comfort with a Twist

If you love grilled cheese and chicken Parmesan, this recipe combines the best of both worlds, delivering a satisfying, cheesy, and hearty meal.

3. Minimal Ingredients

You only need a handful of ingredients, most of which are pantry staples, making it a perfect last-minute meal solution.

4. Kid-Friendly

The familiar, comforting flavors of chicken nuggets and cheese are always a hit with kids, making this a great meal for picky eaters.

5. Customizable

Feel free to add or adjust ingredients to your liking. You can switch up the cheese, sauce, or seasonings to make this sandwich your own.

Ingredients

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

Variations

Different Cheese: Swap the provolone for mozzarella or a combination of mozzarella and cheddar for an even cheesier sandwich.
Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach or sautéed mushrooms to add more depth to the flavor and extra nutrients.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy marinara sauce to give the sandwich a little kick.
Bacon: For an extra indulgent twist, add crispy bacon to the sandwich for an extra layer of flavor.
Non-Breaded Chicken: If you prefer, you can use grilled or roasted chicken breast in place of the breaded chicken patties for a lighter version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken Patties

Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the package of the frozen breaded chicken patties. Bake them until they’re crispy and fully cooked, typically about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

While the chicken is baking, spread garlic butter on one side of each slice of Italian bread. This will give the sandwich an extra boost of flavor and a nice golden-brown crust once toasted.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

Once the chicken patties are ready, place them on a plate. For each sandwich, lay two slices of provolone cheese on one slice of the garlic buttered bread. Add a chicken patty on top of the cheese, then spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle dried basil and garlic salt to taste. Add another layer of provolone cheese and then top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Grill the Sandwiches

Place the second slice of garlic-buttered bread on top of each sandwich, buttered side facing out. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and cut them in half. Serve immediately with extra marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Watch the Heat: Be sure to cook the sandwiches over medium heat to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts.
Keep It Crispy: If you prefer a crispier crust, you can lightly press down on the sandwich with a spatula as it cooks.
Use Fresh Ingredients: If you have fresh basil or garlic, feel free to use them instead of dried for a more aromatic flavor.
Add Extra Cheese: For an even cheesier sandwich, you can add more provolone or a layer of mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
Toast the Bread First: For a quicker grilling process, you can toast the bread in a toaster or under the broiler before assembling the sandwich. This gives the bread a head start and helps prevent it from getting soggy.

How to Serve

Serve these Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese sandwiches with a side of crispy fries, a simple salad, or a cup of extra marinara sauce for dipping. This dish is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with some sides for a well-rounded meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover sandwiches, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the crispiness of the bread.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze them for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Reheating

For the best results when reheating, place the sandwich in a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid to allow the cheese to melt evenly without burning the bread.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can use cooked, grilled chicken breasts or cutlets if you prefer a fresher option.

2. How can I make the sandwich spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or use a spicy Italian sausage instead of the breaded chicken patties.

3. Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! You can use sourdough, whole wheat, or any bread of your choice. Just be sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the ingredients.

4. How can I make this sandwich healthier?

Opt for whole wheat bread, use less cheese, or replace the breaded chicken with grilled chicken breast.

5. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute provolone with mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend of different cheeses for a unique flavor.

6. What if I don’t have garlic butter?

You can use regular butter and add a bit of garlic powder to create a similar flavor.

7. Can I make this sandwich in a panini press?

Yes! A panini press will give you a perfectly crispy sandwich with even heat distribution.

8. Can I add vegetables to this sandwich?

Yes, sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers would be great additions.

9. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply leave out the chicken and add extra cheese or veggies to make a delicious vegetarian version.

10. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly for this recipe, or you can use homemade if you prefer.

Conclusion

Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a fun and easy twist on two beloved dishes. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for anyone craving a cheesy, crispy meal with a comforting chicken Parmesan feel. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this sandwich is sure to hit the spot. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy the deliciousness of chicken Parmesan in the form of a crispy, melty grilled cheese. Enjoy every bite!