The Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a delicious fusion of two beloved comfort foods – chicken Parmesan and a classic grilled cheese sandwich. This easy-to-make recipe delivers all the delicious flavors of chicken Parmesan but in a fun, more convenient form that’s perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. With crispy, breaded chicken patties, melty provolone cheese, a zesty marinara sauce, and a buttery, toasted Italian bread exterior, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

This indulgent twist on the traditional chicken Parmesan is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, especially when using frozen breaded chicken patties for ease and convenience. The combination of savory garlic butter, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese creates a mouthwatering sandwich that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this easy recipe makes for a deliciously satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Make

This recipe is perfect for those days when you want comfort food in a hurry. With frozen chicken patties and just a few simple ingredients, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.

2. Crispy and Cheesy

The breaded chicken patties provide a satisfying crunch, while the melted provolone and Parmesan cheeses add a rich, creamy texture that complements the crispy chicken.

3. Flavorful Marinara Sauce

The marinara sauce brings an authentic Italian flavor to the sandwich, paired with a sprinkle of basil and garlic salt for extra seasoning.

4. Versatile and Customizable

This recipe is easy to customize based on your preferences. Swap out the cheese, adjust the amount of garlic butter, or add extra toppings to make it your own.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese can be made ahead and easily reheated, making it a great option for meal prepping lunches or dinners.

Ingredients

Frozen breaded chicken patties (such as Tyson®)
Garlic butter

Italian bread
Marinara sauce
Dried basil

Garlic salt
Provolone cheese (sliced thin)
Shredded Parmesan cheese

Variations

Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle some spicy cheese for an extra kick.
Vegetarian: Use a veggie or plant-based chicken patty to make a vegetarian version of this grilled cheese.
Cheese Variations: Swap provolone for mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.

Add Extra Veggies: Layer in some fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken Patties

Cook the frozen breaded chicken patties according to the instructions on the package, typically in the oven or air fryer, until golden and crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

While the chicken cooks, spread garlic butter on one side of each slice of Italian bread. You can also adjust the amount of garlic butter based on your taste preferences.

Step 3: Toast the Bread

In a skillet or on a griddle, toast the garlic buttered sides of the Italian bread until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the unbuttered sides of the toasted bread. Place the cooked chicken patties on top of the marinara sauce. Add slices of provolone cheese on top of the chicken, then sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Grill the Sandwich

Place the assembled sandwich back into the skillet or griddle, buttered side up. Grill until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. If needed, you can cover the pan for a minute to help the cheese melt more evenly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cheese has melted and the bread is golden and crispy, remove the sandwich from the skillet. Slice and serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Fresh Garlic Butter: If you have the time, make your own garlic butter by mixing softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: To ensure the bread crisps evenly, grill one sandwich at a time, or use a large skillet if making multiple sandwiches.

Heat the Marinara Sauce: For extra flavor, warm up your marinara sauce before spreading it on the bread.
Use a Lid to Melt the Cheese: If you’re struggling to melt the cheese evenly, cover the pan with a lid for a minute or two to help the cheese melt faster.

How to Serve

Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is perfect served with a side of crispy fries, a simple green salad, or a bowl of extra marinara sauce for dipping. You can also pair it with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the sandwich on a skillet or in the oven to restore the crispiness of the bread.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the sandwiches but don’t cook them. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight, then grill as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat and cook until the bread is crispy again and the cheese is melted.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can use fresh chicken breast or thighs, but be sure to bread and cook them before assembling the sandwich.

2. Can I make this recipe without garlic butter?

You can use regular butter or olive oil if you prefer, though garlic butter adds an extra layer of flavor.

3. What kind of bread is best for this recipe?

Italian bread is the classic choice, but you can also use any type of hearty bread such as sourdough or ciabatta.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use mozzarella, cheddar, or any other cheese you like. However, provolone and Parmesan add a nice Italian flavor.

5. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

You can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time, but it’s best to cook them fresh for the best crispy texture.

6. Can I add vegetables to the sandwich?

Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, roasted peppers, or onions to the sandwich for extra flavor and nutrition.

7. How can I make the sandwich spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or use a spicy cheese for a little extra heat.

8. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara works fine, but homemade sauce can elevate the flavors for a more authentic taste.

9. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can assemble the sandwiches and store them in the fridge to cook later. Just be sure to reheat them properly for the best results.

10. Can I cook the sandwich in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the sandwich in the oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.

Conclusion

Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese combines the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan with the simplicity of a grilled cheese sandwich, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful sandwich that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch, this recipe is both delicious and easy to make.