Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

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Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Introduction and Origin

Chicken Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish featuring crispy breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese. This sandwich takes all those classic flavors and transforms them into a crispy, cheesy grilled cheese with a satisfying crunch and gooey center.

Cultural Significance

A fusion of Italian and American comfort foods, this sandwich is a perfect mix of crispy, cheesy, and savory goodness. It’s an easy way to enjoy the flavors of Chicken Parmesan without the need for a full meal.

Ingredients

Quantity (Makes 2 sandwiches)

  • 4 slices of thick-cut bread (sourdough or Italian bread works best)
  • 1 cooked breaded chicken cutlet (cut in half)
  • ½ cup marinara sauce
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the chicken, if not pre-cooked)

Optional Additions

  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for spice)
  • Fresh basil leaves (for freshness)
  • A drizzle of balsamic glaze (for added depth)

Tips for Success

  • Use fresh, high-quality bread for a crispy yet soft texture.
  • Butter the bread evenly to ensure a golden crust.
  • Let the cheese melt slowly on low-medium heat for the perfect gooey center.
  • If making your own breaded chicken, pound it thin for even cooking.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken (if not pre-cooked): Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the breaded chicken cutlet for 3-4 minutes per side until crispy and cooked through. Set aside.
  2. Assemble the sandwiches:

  1. Spread butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
  2. Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the buttered sides.
  3. On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer mozzarella cheese, a piece of breaded chicken, a spoonful of marinara sauce, and Parmesan cheese.
  4. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
  5. Grill the sandwich: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Serve: Remove from heat, let it cool slightly, and slice in half. Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Description

This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich is crispy on the outside, gooey and cheesy on the inside, with rich marinara sauce tying it all together. The buttery, seasoned bread adds extra flavor, making every bite irresistible.

Nutritional Information (per sandwich)

  • Calories: ~600
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Fiber: 4g

Conclusion and Recommendation

This sandwich is a must-try for anyone who loves Italian flavors and grilled cheese. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or even a game-day snack.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a lighter version, use whole-grain bread, bake the chicken instead of frying, and opt for part-skim mozzarella. However, indulging in the full version every once in a while is totally worth it!

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