Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic dish to share with family or friends during casual gatherings. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home because it combines all the wonderful flavors of traditional chicken parmesan with the comfort of grilled cheese. You get melty cheese, savory chicken, and zesty marinara all packed between crispy bread. What’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 20 minutes, you can have a warm meal on the table, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Family-friendly: Kids love it, and so do adults! It’s a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
• Make it your own: The ingredients are simple and flexible, allowing you to customize based on what you have on hand.
• Comfort food vibes: This dish hits all the right notes of cheesy, saucy goodness that makes you feel good inside.
• Great for meal prep: You can easily prepare components ahead of time for an even quicker assembly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese. Everything here is easy to find and perfect for bringing out those comforting flavors.

• 4 slices of bread (sourdough or your preferred type)
• 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or sliced)
• 4 slices mozzarella cheese (or 1 cup shredded mozzarella)
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce
• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to switch things up based on your taste or what you have available.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even veggies like eggplant or zucchini for a vegetarian twist.
• Change up the cheese: Try adding provolone or gouda for a different flavor experience.
• Add some greens: Throw in some fresh spinach or arugula for added nutrition and freshness.
• Spice it up: Incorporate some red pepper flakes into the marinara for a kick!

How to Make Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before we dive into cooking, let’s get everything ready. Shred your cooked chicken if it’s not already done. Having your ingredients prepped means less stress while cooking. It makes assembling your sandwich smooth and enjoyable!

Step 2: Butter the Bread

Spread softened butter generously on one side of each slice of bread. This step is crucial because buttering ensures that your grilled cheese gets that beautiful golden color and crispy texture. Trust me; it makes all the difference!

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer half of your mozzarella cheese followed by shredded chicken, marinara sauce, grated parmesan cheese, and then top with more mozzarella. Finally, place another slice of bread on top (buttered side facing out). This layering creates melty goodness that will make every bite irresistible.

Step 4: Grill It Up

Heat a skillet over medium heat and grill each sandwich until golden brown on both sides—about 3-5 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them! The key here is patience; allow that cheese to melt perfectly while achieving that crispy exterior.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once your sandwiches are golden brown and oozy inside, take them off the skillet and let them cool slightly before slicing in half. This waiting period helps avoid any molten cheese disasters when biting in! Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping if desired.

And there you have it—your Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is ready to enjoy! It’s truly comfort food at its finest.

Pro Tips for Making Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Making the perfect Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a breeze with a few handy tips. Let’s ensure your sandwich turns out delicious every time!

• Choose the Right Bread: Opt for hearty bread like sourdough or whole grain. These types hold up better under the weight of fillings and enhance the overall flavor.
• Perfectly Melted Cheese: For that gooey texture, use a combination of mozzarella and provolone cheese if you like. The blend melts beautifully and creates that classic cheesy goodness.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: Cook on medium heat to allow the cheese to melt fully without burning the bread. This will give you a perfectly golden-brown crust and melty interior.
• Add Extra Flavor: Sprinkle some extra Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes inside for an added kick. This little touch makes a big difference in flavor!
• Use Leftovers Wisely: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover chicken from previous meals. It not only saves time but also cuts down on food waste.

How to Serve Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Serving your Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your plate visually appealing and tasty.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves adds a burst of color and freshness, elevating your dish’s presentation.
• Parmesan Shavings: A few shavings of parmesan on top just before serving offer an elegant touch and enhance the cheesy flavor.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes provide a pop of color and a refreshing bite, balancing out the richness of the sandwich.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of your grilled cheese, providing freshness.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a savory-sweet contrast to your meal. They are easy to prepare in the oven or air fryer!
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots bring additional nutrition and vibrant colors to your plate.
• Soup: A warm bowl of tomato bisque or vegetable soup is comforting alongside your sandwich, perfect for dipping and enjoying each bite fully.

Enjoy creating this delightful meal that’s not only quick but also satisfying!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance for a quick dinner or lunch throughout the week, ensuring you always have something delicious on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If the sandwiches are fully assembled but not cooked, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating.

Freezing

• To freeze, assemble the sandwiches but do not grill them.
• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat frozen sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them briefly and then finish them off in a toaster oven or skillet for that crispy texture!

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about this recipe.

Can I make Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese without chicken?

Yes! You can easily substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables or your favorite plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.

What goes well with Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese?

This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a side salad, crispy fries, or even a bowl of soup to complete your meal!

How many calories are in Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese?

Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, making it a hearty yet balanced meal choice!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese becomes a go-to recipe in your kitchen! It’s not only quick and easy to make but also packed with flavor and comfort. Enjoy whipping it up for family dinners or casual lunches. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients—I would love to hear how you make this recipe your own! Happy cooking!