Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe

Sourdough bread: A sturdy bread that holds up well to grilling and adds a tangy flavor.

Shredded cooked chicken: Provides the protein and heartiness for the sandwich.

Marinara sauce: Adds a rich, tomatoey flavor that complements the chicken and cheese.

Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy center.

Grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Softened butter: Used to butter the bread for a crispy, golden-brown exterior.

To achieve an evenly golden and crispy exterior on your grilled cheese, make sure to spread the butter evenly across the entire surface of the bread. This ensures that every part of the bread makes contact with the skillet, resulting in a uniform crust. Additionally, using a lid while cooking can help melt the cheese more thoroughly without burning the bread.

• sourdough bread - Substitute with whole wheat bread: Whole wheat bread provides a similar texture and a slightly nutty flavor, making it a healthier alternative.

• shredded cooked chicken - Substitute with shredded cooked turkey: Turkey has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it an excellent substitute for chicken.

• marinara sauce - Substitute with pesto sauce: Pesto sauce offers a different but complementary flavor profile with its basil and garlic notes.

• shredded mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar texture and a slightly saltier, sharper flavor.

• softened butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be brushed on the bread for a healthier alternative that still provides a nice crisp texture when grilled.

• Allow the sandwiches to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the bread soggy.
• Wrap each sandwich individually in aluminum foil or parchment paper. This helps maintain the integrity of the bread and keeps the cheese from sticking to the wrapping.
• Place the wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag. If using a freezer bag, remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container or bag with the date. This helps you keep track of how long the sandwiches have been stored.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place the sandwiches in the freezer, where they can be kept for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the sandwiches in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes if refrigerated, or 20-25 minutes if frozen. This ensures the cheese melts evenly and the bread regains its crispiness.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt thoroughly. Flip the sandwich halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Avoid using a microwave for reheating, as it can make the bread rubbery and the cheese unevenly melted.

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken parmesan grilled cheese on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.

• Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is gooey.

• Use a toaster oven set to 350°F (175°C). Place the grilled cheese on the rack and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.

• Microwave on a microwave-safe plate. Cover the sandwich with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• For a quick fix, use an air fryer set to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken parmesan grilled cheese in the basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for cooking sandwiches over medium heat to achieve a golden brown crust.

• Spatula: A tool used to flip the sandwiches to ensure even cooking on both sides.

• Butter knife: Used to spread softened butter on the slices of bread.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure out the shredded cooked chicken, marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated parmesan cheese.

• Cutting board: A surface to assemble the sandwiches, ensuring a clean and organized workspace.

• Cheese grater: Used to grate the parmesan cheese if it is not pre-grated.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine and mix the shredded cooked chicken with the marinara sauce if desired.

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.

Pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded mozzarella and parmesan to cut down on prep time.

Ready-made marinara: Use store-bought marinara sauce to avoid making it from scratch.

Assemble ahead: Prepare the sandwiches in advance and store them in the fridge, ready to cook.

One-pan method: Cook multiple sandwiches at once using a large skillet or griddle.