Description
This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese combines the classic flavors of chicken parmesan with the comforting, melty goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich. Featuring tender, seasoned chicken breasts simmered in marinara sauce, layered with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and grilled to golden perfection on sourdough bread, this recipe makes a delicious and hearty meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sandwich
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to infuse them with flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Simmer the Marinara: In the same pan, pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer gently for a few minutes until warmed through. Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips and stir them into the marinara sauce to coat thoroughly.
- Prepare the Bread: Lay out the four slices of sourdough bread on a clean surface. Butter one side of each slice evenly to ensure a golden crisp when grilled.
- Assemble the Sandwich: On the unbuttered side of two bread slices, place one slice of mozzarella cheese. Spoon a generous layer of the chicken and marinara mixture on top, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add Fresh Basil: If desired, add fresh basil leaves over the cheese layer to add a fragrant, herbal note.
- Top and Close the Sandwich: Place the remaining slice of mozzarella over the basil, then cover with the other two slices of bread, butter side facing up.
- Grill the Sandwich: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet, pressing down gently with a spatula. Grill each side for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and crisp, and the cheese inside is melted.
- Serve: Remove the sandwiches carefully from the skillet, slice each in half for easier eating, and serve immediately while hot and gooey.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella if possible for the best melting and flavor.
- You can prepare the chicken in advance to save time during assembly.
- For a crispier crust, consider using a panini press instead of a skillet.
- Adjust seasoning on the chicken and sauce to taste before assembling.
- Fresh basil is optional but adds a wonderful aroma and freshness to the sandwich.
