Chicken Parmesan grilled cheese

 

Step-by-Step Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If using raw chicken breast:

  1. Pound & Season: Place the chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound to an even ½-inch thickness. Cut it into two cutlets. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

 

  1. Bread the Chicken: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with ¼ cup Parmesan and Italian seasoning.
    · Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off excess.
    · Dip in the egg, letting excess drip off.
    · Press firmly into the panko mixture to coat.

 

  1. Pan-Fry: Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.

If using pre-cooked breaded chicken tenders/cutlets:

· Simply warm them through according to package directions or in an air fryer to re-crisp.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

  1. Prepare the Bread: Spread the softened butter or mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread. This will be the outer crust.

 

  1. Build the Sandwich (on the unbuttered sides):
    · Place one slice of bread, unbuttered-side-up.
    · Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan.
    · Place the cooked chicken cutlet or tenders on the cheese.
    · Spoon a generous amount of warm marinara sauce over the chicken. Don’t over-sauce, or the bread will get soggy.
    · Add fresh basil leaves and another light sprinkle of Parmesan.
    · Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
    · Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered-side-out.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

  1. Cook Low and Slow: Wipe out the skillet you used for the chicken (or use a clean one) and place it over medium-low heat.

 

  1. Grill: Place the sandwiches in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid (this is key—it traps heat and ensures the cheese melts completely).

 

  1. Cook for 3-5 minutes, until the bottom bread is golden brown and crispy.

 

  1. Flip Carefully: Uncover, carefully flip the sandwich with a spatula, cover again, and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is oozy and melted.

 

  1. Rest: Remove from the skillet and let rest for 1-2 minutes before cutting. This allows the cheese to set slightly.

Serving Suggestion