Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese – A Crispy, Cheesy Comfort Food Mashup

If you love chicken Parmesan and can’t resist a gooey grilled cheese, this sandwich is your perfect match. It’s crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and loaded with tangy marinara and juicy chicken. Made in just minutes, this Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich brings all the cozy comfort of a classic Italian dish in handheld form—no fork or knife required!

Great for quick lunches, weeknight dinners, or even a late-night craving, this sandwich hits the spot every single time.

Ingredients

2 slices of bread (sturdy bread like sourdough, ciabatta, or country white works best)
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or thinly sliced
½ cup marinara sauce
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter, for grilling
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
½ teaspoon dried basil (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Pro Tip: Leftover rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe!

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

If not already cooked, season the chicken breast with salt and pepper and cook it (grilled, poached, or pan-fried). Let it cool slightly and shred or slice thinly.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich

Spread marinara sauce on one side of each slice of bread.
On one slice (sauce side up), layer the chicken, followed by Parmesan and mozzarella.
Sprinkle with basil and garlic powder if using, for a little extra Italian flair.
Place the second slice of bread on top, sauce side down, to complete the sandwich.

Step 3: Grill It to Golden Perfection

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
Place the sandwich in the skillet. Grill for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
If needed, add more butter/oil and reduce heat slightly to avoid burning while the inside melts.

Step 4: Slice & Serve

Let the sandwich rest for 1 minute, then slice it in half and serve warm.
Perfect on its own or with a side of chips, salad, or even extra marinara for dipping.

Quick Facts

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Servings: 1–2 sandwiches
Calories: ~550 per sandwich (depending on bread and cheese used)

Variations & Tips

Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy marinara.
Cheese it up: Add provolone, fontina, or a cheese blend for extra gooeyness.
Bread swap: Try focaccia, garlic bread, or even a baguette for a twist.
Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What to Serve With Chicken Parm Grilled Cheese

A side Caesar salad or mixed greens
Tomato basil soup or creamy garlic soup
Sweet potato fries or kettle chips
Pickles for a tangy crunch

Storage Tips

Leftovers: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate for up to 1 day. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven.
Freezer tip: You can prep the sandwiches ahead, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze. Cook from frozen over lower heat for extra crispiness.

Chicken Parmesan grilled cheese sandwich