Ready for all the comfort of a classic Italian restaurant with almost zero effort? The Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese delivers everything you crave: gooey cheese, savory marinara, juicy chicken, and golden toasted bread, all in one handheld package. It’s crispy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible—perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or anytime you need a cozy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This sandwich is the ultimate hybrid of two comfort food legends and might just make you wonder why you ever made Chicken Parmesan or grilled cheese separately!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about making something spectacular out of everyday ingredients. Each element in the Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese recipe is carefully chosen to create layers of flavor, texture, and melty perfection. You probably already have everything you need to pull off this showstopping sandwich!
- Sourdough or Italian bread: Sturdy slices stand up to plenty of gooey fillings and get perfectly crisp when grilled.
- Softened butter: Spreads easily over bread and ensures a golden, flavorful crust.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie or leftover chicken keeps things easy but packed with protein and savory depth.
- Marinara sauce: Adds signature tangy tomato flavor and keeps the sandwich moist.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: The key to that classic, stretchy melt in every bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, savory punch and reinforces the parmesan flavor.
- Garlic powder: Brings warmth and extra Italian flair with zero effort.
- Italian seasoning: All the herby goodness you want in one sprinkle.
- Salt and pepper: Simple finishing touches that let all the other flavors shine.
How to Make Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
Step 1: Prep Your Bread
Start by buttering one side of each slice of bread. This step is the secret to getting that perfectly golden, crispy exterior, so don’t skimp! Lay the slices butter-side down on your work surface, ready to stack on all the deliciousness.
Step 2: Build Your Filling
On the unbuttered side of one bread slice, pile on your shredded chicken, marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. This is where the familiar flavors of Chicken Parmesan meet the comfort of grilled cheese, so don’t be afraid to get a little messy.
Step 3: Season It Up
To really nail the Italian vibe, dust the filling with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a bit of salt and pepper. These little touches ensure your Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese tastes far from lazy!
Step 4: Assemble and Grill
Top your loaded sandwich with the second bread slice, buttered side out. Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, gently move your sandwich into the pan. Grill for 3 to 4 minutes per side. You’ll know it’s ready to flip when the bread is golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Take your sandwich out of the skillet (careful, it’s hot!), let it rest for a minute so the cheese sets just slightly, then slice in half for the ultimate cheese pull. Your Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is ready to wow!
How to Serve Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
Garnishes
Top your sandwich halves with a scattering of fresh basil, extra Parmesan, or a pinch of crushed red pepper. These finishing touches bring a pop of color and an extra burst of freshness or heat—customize it to match your mood or the season!
Side Dishes
This rich, comforting sandwich shines with simple sides. Pair your Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese with a crisp green salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or some roasted broccoli for balance. Even classic potato chips or pickles add a nice crunch alongside every gooey bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your sandwich into strips for cheesy dippers and serve with a side of extra marinara sauce. Or, give it an open-faced treatment and broil until bubbly for a rustic fork-and-knife approach. Want to impress? Stack mini-sandwiches on a platter for a party-ready appetizer version!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow have leftovers (unlikely, but it happens!), wrap your Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for best quality, knowing the bread might soften a tad but the flavors will still be fantastic.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze cooked sandwiches! Cool them completely, then double-wrap in plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to a month. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for minimal texture loss.
Reheating
Reheat your sandwich in a skillet over low heat or in an oven at 350°F until warmed through and the bread gets crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it tends to make the bread soggy. If you must microwave, use a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
FAQs
Can I use any type Main Course
Absolutely! While sourdough or Italian bread is classic for Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese, feel free to try it with your favorite sandwich bread, ciabatta, or even a baguette for a unique twist.
What’s the best chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken keeps things super easy, but any cooked chicken works—grilled, baked, even breaded. Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The gooey cheese and familiar flavors of chicken parmesan make it an instant hit with kids. You can skip the Italian seasoning if your little ones prefer simpler tastes.
How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Start by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce and don’t overload it. Grilling the bread until golden helps lock in the crispness, so eat right away for maximum crunch!
Can I make this dairy-free?
Of course—just use your favorite dairy-free cheeses and a plant-based butter. The result will still be extra delicious and every bit as comforting.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a cozy dinner that tastes like a treat, the Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is truly a sandwich worth savoring. It’s effortless, deeply satisfying, and just the thing to brighten up any day. Give it a try—you may never go back to plain old grilled cheese again!
Print
Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese. This easy-to-make sandwich combines the flavors of chicken Parmesan with the gooey goodness of a grilled cheese, creating a satisfying meal that will please both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 2 slices of sourdough or Italian bread
- 1 tablespoon softened butter
Filling:
- 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftover)
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Butter the bread: Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Assemble the sandwich: On the unbuttered side of one slice, layer chicken, marinara sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Top with the second slice, buttered side out.
- Cook the sandwich: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the sandwich for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cheese is melted. Slice and serve.
Notes
- You can use any type of cooked chicken for this recipe, including grilled or breaded.
- Try adding fresh basil for extra flavor or swap mozzarella for provolone for a different twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
