Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is the perfect mix of two favorites: crispy grilled cheese and all the tasty chicken parmesan flavors you love. It’s got melty cheese, tender chicken, a bit of marinara sauce, and a hint of herbs all sandwiched in golden toasted bread. It’s simple but packed with deliciousness.
I love making this when I want something quick but satisfying. Instead of cooking a full fancy chicken parmesan dinner, this grilled cheese version lets me enjoy those classic flavors without all the fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or sauce if you have some sitting in the fridge.
My favorite way to eat this is right off the pan while it’s still warm and gooey, with a side of some fresh salad or even just some crunchy pickles. It’s the kind of meal that makes weekdays happier and gets the whole family excited at dinner time. Give it a try—you might find yourself making it on repeat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick white or sourdough bread works best for a sturdy, crispy sandwich. If you prefer, whole wheat or gluten-free bread can be used, but watch for shorter cooking time to avoid burning.
Chicken: Using cooked chicken tenders or cutlets keeps this recipe quick. Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works well too. For a vegetarian twist, try crispy eggplant slices.
Marinara Sauce: A good-quality marinara adds rich flavor. You can use jarred sauce for convenience or homemade if you have it. Tomato sauce or pizza sauce can work as substitutes.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully for that gooey stretchiness. Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor. You can swap mozzarella with provolone or fontina, and Parmesan with pecorino or Asiago.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy but Gooey Grilled Cheese?
Cooking low and slow is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Butter the bread evenly for a golden crust.
- Cook on medium heat to let the cheese melt thoroughly without burning the bread.
- Press gently with a spatula to keep the sandwich compact and heat evenly.
- Flip carefully and cook the other side the same way.
- Let the sandwich rest a minute before slicing to avoid hot filling spills.
This patience pays off with a sandwich that’s crispy outside and melty inside—just like a chicken parmesan should be in grilled cheese form!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet or cast-iron pan – perfect for even browning without sticking.
- Spatula – helps flip the sandwich gently without breaking it.
- Butter knife – easy for spreading butter evenly on the bread slices.
- Cheese grater (optional) – if you’re shredding mozzarella and Parmesan fresh.
- Small bowl – for warming marinara sauce if you want it hot for dipping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for crispy eggplant slices to make it vegetarian while keeping that parmesan flavor.
- Add sliced pepperoni or cooked Italian sausage to give the sandwich a meaty, spicy kick.
- Mix fresh spinach or basil leaves inside for a fresh, green touch and added texture.
- Use provolone or fontina cheese instead of mozzarella for a different creamy melt and flavor.
Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices of thick white or sourdough bread
- 1 cup cooked chicken tenders or chicken cutlets (store-bought or leftover), shredded or sliced thin
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes total. You’ll spend just a few minutes assembling the sandwiches, then about 4-5 minutes per side cooking them until golden and melty. It’s quick enough for a tasty weeknight dinner or lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Skillet and Bread:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. While it’s warming up, spread softened butter evenly on one side of each bread slice. This buttered side will be the outside of your sandwiches for that golden, crispy crust.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches:
On the non-buttered side of two bread slices, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Then add half of the shredded chicken evenly on top. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the chicken, followed by a light sprinkle of Italian seasoning or oregano. Top each with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
3. Cook the Sandwiches:
Place the sandwiches carefully in the hot skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula to help them brown evenly and the cheese melt fully. Keep an eye on the heat so the bread doesn’t burn before the cheese melts.
4. Finish and Serve:
Remove sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute to cool slightly and keep the filling inside. Slice each sandwich in half. If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for some color and fresh flavor. Serve warm with extra warmed marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your melty, crispy, cheesy lazy chicken parmesan grilled cheese — a perfect easy meal full of familiar flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before assembling the sandwich. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or use the quick-thaw method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour. Pat it dry before using.
What’s the Best Bread to Use?
Thick slices of white or sourdough bread work best because they hold up well to the fillings and get nice and crispy. If you prefer, you can also use whole wheat or gluten-free bread, but watch the cooking time to prevent burning.
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
You can prep the sandwiches in advance, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Cook them directly from the fridge, adding a minute or two to the cooking time so the cheese melts properly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is melty again.