This Easy Grilled Chicken Parmesan Sandwich is a real winner! Juicy chicken, melty cheese, and tasty marinara all nestled in a soft bun make for a cozy meal.
If you’re like me, you might find yourself licking the sauce off your fingers! đ Itâs super simple to make, and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Just grill, stack, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for grilling. If you’re short on time, thin-cut breasts cook quicker. For a twist, you could also use turkey or grilled eggplant for a vegetarian version!
Marinara Sauce: A homemade sauce can elevate the dish, but store-bought works perfectly too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using a store-bought pesto or alfredo sauce instead.
Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is classic for this sandwich due to its melting quality. If you want a sharper flavor, feel free to substitute provolone or gouda. You can also try using dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant.
Bread: Italian bread has great flavor, but you can substitute it with whole grain, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread based on your needs!
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here’s the secret to juicy, well-cooked pieces:
- Preheat your grill: Make sure it’s hot before adding the chicken for good searing.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F/75°C.
- Let it rest: After grilling, let the chicken sit for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute!
With these tips, you’ll achieve a delicious grilled chicken thatâs bursting with flavor every time!
Easy Grilled Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 4 slices sandwich bread (white or Italian style)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or softened butter (for toasting bread)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (for sprinkling)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh or dried basil or parsley for garnish
Time Needed:
This scrumptious sandwich takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15-20 minutes for grilling the chicken and toasting the bread. In total, youâre looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Grill:
First things first, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This is super important to ensure your chicken gets that nice sear!
2. Seasoning the Chicken:
While your grill heats up, season the chicken breasts on both sides with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. This gives your chicken flavor right from the start!
3. Grilling the Chicken:
Now, itâs time to grill! Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them cooked through, with juices running clear. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach 165°F (75°C).
4. Adding the Marinara:
While the chicken is still on the grill, spoon approximately 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over each piece of chicken. This is where the flavors start to pop!
5. Melting the Cheese:
Top each chicken breast with two slices of mozzarella cheese. Close the grill lid to help the cheese melt, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Get ready for some delicious gooeyness!
6. Toasting the Bread:
While the cheese is melting, take your bread slices and brush one side of each with olive oil or softened butter. Then, toast them on a skillet or directly on the grill until they are golden brown and crispy. Yum!
7. Assembling Your Sandwich:
Time to put it all together! Take one slice of your toasted bread (olive oil side down) and place a chicken breast with all that melted cheese and marinara on top. Sprinkle some Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese over it if you like!
8. Finishing Touches:
Top it off with the second slice of toasted bread, olive oil side up. If youâre feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh or dried basil or parsley on top for that final touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delightful grilled chicken Parmesan sandwich warm, and enjoy every bite of this delicious creation! Itâs quick, satisfying, and sure to be a hit!
This sandwich is a perfect combination of juicy grilled chicken, savory marinara, and gooey mozzarella melted onto crunchy toasted breadâsimple, fast, and utterly satisfying!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before grilling. To thaw quickly, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 1-2 hours. Pat them dry before seasoning and cooking!
Can I Prep This Sandwich in Advance?
Absolutely! You can grill the chicken and prepare the marinara sauce ahead of time. Store the cooked chicken and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat the chicken and stack your sandwich!
How to Store Leftover Sandwiches?
If you have any leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can pop it in the oven or toaster oven to maintain the crispiness. The microwave will work, but the bread may become soggy.
Can I Make This Sandwich Healthier?
Definitely! Consider using whole-grain bread for added fiber, or swap the mozzarella cheese for a lower-fat version. You can also grill some veggies and add them to your sandwich for extra nutrients!
