When I crave the flavors of classic chicken parmesan but want something quick, my Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is exactly what you need.
This sandwich delivers all the melty cheese, savory chicken, and rich tomato sauce you love, wrapped in perfectly toasted bread that takes just minutes to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
I absolutely adore this recipe because it satisfies my comfort food cravings without any complicated steps.
You’ll experience all the beloved chicken parmesan elements—golden crunch, gooey cheese, zesty marinara—transformed into a satisfying sandwich that comes together in minutes using ingredients you probably already have at home.
This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese always brings a smile to my face, just like my Easy Turkey and Cranberry Paninis and Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo Pasta Casserole.
Ingredients You Need for Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices thick-cut Italian bread (I prefer sourdough or ciabatta for extra flavor)
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, sliced thin (rotisserie chicken works perfectly here!)
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese (fresh mozzarella makes it extra creamy)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons marinara sauce (your favorite jarred sauce is fine)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, but I highly recommend them)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
Pro tip: If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store—it saves so much time and adds incredible flavor to your sandwich.
How to Make Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
Step 1: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. While it’s warming up, spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice—this creates that perfect golden crust we’re after.
Step 2: Place two bread slices in the pan, butter-side down. Spread 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce on the unbuttered side of each slice, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Layer one slice of mozzarella on each piece of bread, followed by your sliced chicken. I like to overlap the chicken pieces slightly for even coverage.
Step 4: Add fresh basil leaves if using, then top with another slice of mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Spread the remaining marinara sauce on the unbuttered side of your remaining bread slices.
Step 5: Place the sauced bread slices on top, sauce-side down, and gently press the sandwiches together. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Carefully flip your sandwiches using a spatula—I like to press down gently to help everything meld together. Cook another 3-4 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese is completely melted.
Step 7: Remove from heat and let cool for 1-2 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and serve immediately while the cheese is still gooey!
My Go-To Tips for this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
Don’t rush the cooking process—medium heat is your friend here. Too high and you’ll burn the bread before the cheese melts.
I always test my heat with a small piece of bread first. Use pre-shredded mozzarella if you’re in a hurry, but fresh mozzarella creates the most amazing cheese pull.
Let your sandwich rest for a minute after cooking—it prevents the filling from spilling out when you cut it.
What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
No problem! I’ve used pizza sauce, pasta sauce, or even a simple mixture of tomato paste, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.
Any tomato-based sauce works beautifully in this recipe.
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Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
Description
A quick and delicious twist on classic chicken parmesan that combines tender chicken, melted cheese, and tangy marinara sauce between crispy, buttery bread.
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick Italian bread
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, sliced
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
- 4 tablespoons marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
- Red pepper flakes to taste
Instructions
- Heat skillet over medium heat
- Butter one side of each bread slice
- Place bread butter-side down in pan, spread with sauce and seasonings
- Layer with mozzarella, chicken, basil, more mozzarella, and Parmesan
- Top with remaining bread slices, sauce-side down
- Cook 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cheese melts
- Cool briefly, slice, and serve with red pepper flakes
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience
- Don’t rush the cooking—medium heat prevents burning
- Let sandwich rest 1-2 minutes before cutting to prevent filling from spilling
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Can I use different types of cheese?
While mozzarella gives you that classic chicken parmesan flavor, provolone, fontina, or even sharp cheddar create delicious variations.
Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well.
How do I prevent the sandwich from falling apart?
The key is using enough cheese to act as “glue” and not overfilling your sandwich. I also press gently with my spatula while cooking to help everything stick together.
The Best Way to Enjoy This Chicken Parm Sandwich
I love serving my Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese with a simple side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette, the acidity cuts through the richness perfectly.
For a heartier meal, pair it with roasted vegetables or crispy potato wedges.
My family enjoys these sandwiches for weekend lunches, quick weeknight dinners, or even as a satisfying late-night snack. They’re also perfect for game day gatherings!