Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Name: Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 frozen breaded chicken patties; 4 slices Italian bread; 6 thin slices provolone cheese; 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese; 1 cup marinara sauce; ½ teaspoon dried basil; 1 pinch garlic salt; 2 tablespoons garlic butter

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: August 12, 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Introduction to Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

As a busy mom and home cook, I know how crucial it is to have quick and delightful meals in our back pocket. That’s where my Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese comes into play! Picture this: a cheesy, crispy sandwich that combines the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan with the ease of a classic grilled cheese. It’s perfect for those hectic evenings when the kids are calling for dinner, or you simply want a cozy meal to relish after a long day. Trust me; this dish is a total crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort!

Why You’ll Love This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is truly a gem in the world of quick meals. Not only does it come together in just 30 minutes, but it also combines the rich flavors of chicken and cheese with the simplicity of a grilled cheese. For busy moms and professionals, it’s the perfect way to create a satisfying dish that everyone loves without spending hours in the kitchen. If you crave tasty comfort food, this sandwich ticks all the boxes!

Ingredients for Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese, you’ll need a few simple items that I bet you can find right in your kitchen.

Frozen breaded chicken patties: These are the star of the dish. They add that crunchy texture and savory flavor without any fuss.
Italian bread: Choose thick slices for a hearty sandwich. The crust adds a delightful crunch, soaking up all the flavors without getting soggy.
Provolone cheese: This creamy cheese melts beautifully, giving the sandwich its gooey texture. If you prefer, mozzarella works just as well, too!
Shredded Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan elevates the flavors, giving that authentic Italian touch. Feel free to use any grated cheese you have on hand.
Marinara sauce: This delicious sauce brings a touch of sweetness and acidity. You can buy it pre-made or whip up a quick batch if time allows.
Dried basil: It adds a lovely herbaceous note, enhancing the overall flavor profile. If you have fresh basil, that would be simply divine!
Garlic salt: A pinch of this brings an irresistible aroma and taste. If you don’t have any, regular salt and a bit of minced garlic will do!
Garlic butter: This luscious spread gives the bread a rich flavor. You can easily make your own by mixing softened butter with minced garlic.

Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet; you can find those at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Making this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a breeze! Let’s walk through each step together so you can enjoy this savory delight in no time.

Step 1: Preheat and Bake the Chicken Patties

First things first, preheat your oven to a cozy 400°F (200°C). Once it’s nice and warm, place the frozen breaded chicken patties on a baking sheet. I love using a non-stick one to avoid any mess!

Bake them in the oven for about 20 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy. The aroma of chicken will fill your kitchen, making you even hungrier. After baking, let them cool for a minute, then slice each patty in half lengthwise. Trust me, this will help in later layers of deliciousness!

Step 2: Prepare the Marinara Sauce Mixture

While your patties bake, it’s time to whip up a quick marinara sauce mixture. In a bowl, combine your marinara sauce with the dried basil and a pinch of garlic salt.

This combination isn’t just for flavor; it brings a touch of warmth and comfort!

Microwave the mixture for about 30 to 60 seconds and stir. Be careful when taking it out—it’ll be hot! This sauce will elevate your sandwich to a whole new level.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

Now comes the fun part—assembling your sandwich! Grab a sturdy skillet and lay it on your stovetop.

Start by layering your ingredients like this: place a slice of Italian bread butter-side down in the skillet.

On top, add two slices of provolone cheese, followed by 1 tablespoon of your warmed marinara sauce mixture.

Now, add two halves of the chicken patties, then drizzle on another 2 tablespoons of sauce.

Finally, top it off with one more slice of provolone cheese and finish with another slice of bread butter-side up. Your Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is looking fantastic!

Step 4: Cook the Sandwich

Time to cook! Heat your skillet over medium heat. Cook the sandwich for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Flip carefully to avoid any stuffing spillage!

You want it golden brown and for that cheese to melt into gooey goodness. If it’s browning too quickly, don’t hesitate to lower the heat. A little patience will lead to the perfect sandwich.

Step 5: Serve with Extra Sauce

Once your sandwiches are perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve! Warm up any leftover marinara sauce and stir in that shredded Parmesan cheese.

This sauce makes an excellent dip for your sandwiches!

Plate your Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese, and don’t forget to provide that extra sauce on the side. This meal is not just tasty; it’s a feast for the eyes, too! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Tips for Success

Always let the chicken patties cool slightly before slicing; this prevents them from falling apart.
Use a well-heated skillet to ensure a crispy crust on your sandwich.
Experiment with different cheeses; a mix of mozzarella and provolone can make it even creamier!
Add fresh herbs or spices to elevate the flavor of your marinara sauce.
Don’t overstuff your sandwich; a little goes a long way for melting perfection.

Equipment Needed for Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Oven: Essential for baking those crispy chicken patties. A toaster oven works too!
Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for cooking. If you don’t have one, any frying pan will do.
Baking sheet: You can use parchment paper for easy cleanup!
Microwave-safe bowl: Perfect for heating the marinara sauce mixture. A small pot can work too.

Variations of Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a zesty twist that packs a punch.
Veggie Delight: Layer in some fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms to sneak in extra veggies for a nutritious upgrade.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread and ensure the chicken patties are certified gluten-free for a tasty alternative.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh basil or oregano layered in the sandwich for an aromatic freshness that’s simply divine.
Cheese Lovers: Mix in a combination of mozzarella, provolone, and Gouda for a cheesy explosion that’s unforgettable!

Serving Suggestions for Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Classic Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with cucumbers and tomatoes pairs perfectly to balance the richness of the sandwich.
Crispy French Fries: Serve with golden, crispy fries for a comforting twist.
Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink refreshes the palate and complements the flavors.
Presentation Tip: Cut the sandwich diagonally and stick a toothpick in each half for a fun, café-style presentation!

FAQs about Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen patties? Absolutely! If you have fresh grilled or cooked chicken on hand, feel free to slice it and layer it in your sandwich. It will add a lovely homemade touch!

What if I don’t have marinara sauce? No marinara? No problem! You can substitute it with your favorite pizza sauce or even a homemade tomato sauce for a different flavor profile. Just be creative!

How do I store leftovers? If you have any leftovers, simply wrap the sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat it in a skillet for best results!

Can this recipe be made in advance? While the Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Bake the chicken patties and mix the sauce the day before!

Is this dish kid-friendly? Definitely! Kids adore cheesy grilled sandwiches, and by adding chicken, you get a delicious meal that they will love. It’s a great way to sneak in protein, too!

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting a meal that brings joy and comfort, especially after a hectic day. My Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese does just that—with its melty cheese and crispy chicken, it’s the ultimate indulgence. This dish is not only quick to whip up, but it can stir up delightful memories of family dinners and stolen bites in the kitchen. Whether for those busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat, I hope it brings as much happiness to your table as it does to mine. Enjoy each delicious bite and the smiles they bring!