Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled

Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is the perfect quick comfort meal when you want something hearty without the fuss. Crispy breaded chicken patties, melted provolone cheese, and a rich marinara sauce between buttery toasted Italian bread come together in under 20 minutes. This sandwich satisfies those cheesy, savory cravings with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

I first tried this when I needed dinner on a hectic night My family loved it and now it’s a go to when we want something fast and filling

Ingredients

• Two frozen breaded chicken patties: for crispy texture and savory protein Choose patties with good breading coverage for best results
• Two tablespoons garlic butter: to add rich buttery garlic flavor Spread it generously for a golden crust
• Four slices Italian bread: which holds up well to grilling and soaking in the marinara Look for fresh bread with a slightly firm crust
• One cup marinara sauce: to bring a tangy sweet balance Use your favorite brand or homemade for a personalized touch
• Half a teaspoon dried basil: adds subtle herbal notes to the sauce Enhance it freshly ground if available
• A pinch of garlic salt: to boost flavor without overpowering Use sparingly as the chicken and butter are already savory
• Six thin slices provolone cheese: offer a mild, creamy melt that complements the chicken and sauce Thin slices melt evenly and quickly
• Two tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: for a salty sharp finish Choose finely grated Parmesan for even distribution

Instructions

Sear the Chicken Patties:

Cook frozen chicken patties according to package directions until they are hot and crispy Make sure patties reach the internal temperature recommended on the package to ensure food safety

Prepare the Bread with Garlic Butter:

Mix the garlic butter thoroughly to distribute the garlic flavor evenly Spread the butter on the outside surfaces of each slice of Italian bread This creates the buttery crust when grilled

Season the Marinara Sauce:

In a small bowl stir the marinara sauce with dried basil and a pinch of garlic salt Taste and adjust seasoning but avoid making it too salty as the cheese and chicken add saltiness

Layer the Sandwich:

On one slice of bread spread a spoonful of the seasoned marinara Then add three slices of provolone cheese making a single layer on top of the sauce Add the chicken patty on top of the cheese sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken Top the sandwich with the second slice of bread, making sure the buttered side is facing outwards to get that golden crust

Grill Until Perfect:

Heat a skillet over medium heat Once hot place the sandwich and grill each side for about three to four minutes Press down gently with a spatula to encourage even melting The sandwich is done when bread is golden brown and cheese is melted through

Provolone is my favorite cheese here because of its gooey texture and mild flavor that lets the chicken and marinara shine through One time I made this for a lastminute lunch and the kids declared it better than takeout

Storage Tips

Store leftovers wrapped tightly in foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator For best taste reheat on a skillet to keep bread crisp Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

Use mozzarella instead of provolone for a slightly stretchier melt Parmesan can be swapped with pecorino Romano for a sharper tang Try turkey patties if you want a leaner protein option

Serving Suggestions

Pair this sandwich with a simple green salad or some crispy roasted potatoes to round out your meal A side of extra marinara sauce for dipping never hurts if you want more saucy goodness

This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese makes a fast satisfying weeknight meal that brings classic Italian flavors to an easy sandwich. Reheat on a skillet to keep the bread crisp and the cheese gooey.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can fresh chicken be used instead of frozen patties?

Yes, fresh chicken breasts can be cooked and breaded similarly before layering to achieve a fresher texture and flavor.

→ What type of cheese enhances the flavor best?

Provolone pairs perfectly with Parmesan for a melty, tangy finish that complements the savory chicken and marinara.

→ How can I make the bread extra crispy?

Spreading garlic butter evenly on the bread exterior before grilling helps achieve a rich golden crust with crispiness.

→ Is it possible to prepare this without a grill pan?

Yes, a skillet or sandwich press works well to brown the bread and melt the cheese evenly.

→ What herbs complement marinara in this dish?

Dried basil and a pinch of garlic salt enhance the marinara, adding depth without overwhelming the other ingredients.