Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

I make this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese when I want all the comforting flavors of chicken Parmesan in a quick, crispy sandwich. It’s cheesy, saucy, and golden on the outside with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe takes a classic Italian-inspired dish and turns it into something fast and approachable. I can use leftover or pre-cooked chicken to save time, and everything cooks in one skillet. The crispy bread, melty mozzarella, savory chicken, and rich marinara create the perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s ideal for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 slices sandwich bread or Italian bread

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

• 1 cup marinara sauce

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions

1. I mix the shredded chicken with marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a bowl.

2. I spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.

3. I place four slices of bread butter-side down on a clean surface.

4. I sprinkle a layer of mozzarella on each slice.

5. I spoon the chicken marinara mixture evenly over the cheese.

6. I sprinkle grated Parmesan on top and add another layer of mozzarella.

7. I top with the remaining bread slices, butter-side up.

8. I heat a skillet over medium heat and carefully place the sandwiches in the pan.

9. I cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.

10. I remove from the skillet, let them cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 sandwiches.

I usually spend about 10 minutes preparing the filling and 8–10 minutes cooking. In total, it’s ready in around 20 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add a few fresh basil leaves for extra flavor. If I want a little heat, I sprinkle red pepper flakes into the chicken mixture. I also enjoy using provolone instead of mozzarella for a slightly sharper taste.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, I warm the sandwiches in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a 350°F oven for about 8–10 minutes to keep the bread crisp. I avoid microwaving if I want to maintain the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use breaded chicken?

Yes, I sometimes use leftover breaded chicken cutlets for extra texture and flavor.

What type of bread works best?

I prefer sturdy sandwich bread or Italian bread that holds up well to the sauce.

Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes, I cook it at 375°F for about 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?

I avoid adding too much sauce and cook over medium heat so the bread crisps properly.

Can I make it ahead of time?

I prefer assembling and cooking it fresh, but I can prepare the chicken mixture in advance to save time.

Conclusion

I love how this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese delivers all the comforting flavors of a classic dish in a quick and crispy sandwich. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect whenever I want something warm, cheesy, and delicious without much effort.