Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese: A Cheesy, Crispy Comfort Food Mashup
If you’re craving the flavors of chicken Parmesan but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is your answer.
This quick and satisfying sandwich combines crispy chicken, gooey melted cheese, and tangy marinara sauce between golden, buttery bread slices. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a snack, this recipe turns a classic comfort food into an easy-to-make favorite that the whole family will love.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet or Grill Pan – For toasting the sandwiches to crispy perfection.
- Spatula – For flipping the sandwiches without losing the filling.
- Knife and Cutting Board – To prep the chicken if needed.
Ingredients Overview
- Chicken – Breaded chicken tenders or frozen chicken cutlets make this recipe quick and easy.
- Cheese – Mozzarella and Parmesan for that classic Italian flavor.
- Marinara Sauce – Use store-bought or homemade for tangy goodness.
- Bread – Sturdy bread like sourdough or Italian loaf works best.
- Butter – For creating a perfectly golden crust.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of sturdy bread (like sourdough or Italian)
- 2 cooked breaded chicken tenders or cutlets
- ½ cup marinara sauce, warmed
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- Optional: fresh basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
Heat or cook the breaded chicken tenders according to the package instructions. Once ready, slice them into smaller pieces if necessary to fit the sandwich. - Assemble the Sandwich
Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer a slice of mozzarella cheese, chicken tenders, a spoonful of marinara sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Top with another slice of mozzarella, then place the second slice of bread, buttered side up, to complete the sandwich. - Cook the Sandwiches
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. - Serve
Slice the sandwiches in half and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Recipe Tips
- Chicken Shortcut: Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken if you don’t have breaded tenders on hand.
- Cheese Lovers: Add extra mozzarella for an ultra-cheesy sandwich.
- Bread Choices: Use Texas toast, ciabatta, or even garlic bread for a fun twist.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Pair this grilled cheese with a simple side salad, garlic knots, or a cup of tomato basil soup for a full Italian-inspired meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this sandwich healthier?
A: Use whole-grain bread, grilled chicken instead of breaded, and low-fat cheese to lighten it up.
Q: Can I use another type of cheese?
A: Provolone or a mild cheddar can also work well in this recipe.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the chicken and assemble the sandwiches in advance. Cook just before serving for maximum crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese with marinara sauce for dipping and a side of roasted vegetables or zucchini fries for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of sturdy bread
- 2 cooked breaded chicken tenders or cutlets
- ½ cup marinara sauce, warmed
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- Optional: fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat or cook chicken tenders as needed.
- Butter one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, layer mozzarella, chicken, marinara sauce, Parmesan, and more mozzarella. Top with bread, buttered side out.
- Grill sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and melty.
- Slice, garnish with basil, and serve with extra marinara sauce.

chicken Parmesan
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Grill Pan – For toasting the sandwiches to crispy perfection.
- Spatula – For flipping the sandwiches without losing the filling.
- Knife and Cutting Board – To prep the chicken if needed.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of sturdy bread
- 2 cooked breaded chicken tenders or cutlets
- ½ cup marinara sauce warmed
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter softened
- Optional: fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat or cook chicken tenders as needed.
- Butter one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, layer mozzarella, chicken, marinara sauce, Parmesan, and more mozzarella. Top with bread, buttered side out.
- Grill sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and melty.
- Slice, garnish with basil, and serve with extra marinara sauce.