Chicken Parmesan grilled cheese sandwich

### How to Make Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich

#### Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken. If you’re using whole chicken breasts, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Season the chicken with **salt**, **pepper**, **garlic powder**, and **onion powder** for a bit of flavor.

#### Step 2: Bread the Chicken
Set up a breading station: in one bowl, place the **flour**; in another, whisk the **egg**; and in a third bowl, combine the **breadcrumbs**, **parmesan cheese**, and **Italian seasoning**.

Dip each chicken cutlet first in the flour, coating it lightly. Then dip it into the egg wash, followed by the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick. This creates the crispy exterior for your chicken.

#### Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a bit of **oil** or **butter** in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets and cook for about **4-5 minutes per side**, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach **165°F (74°C)**. Once cooked, set the chicken aside.

#### Step 4: Toast the Bread
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the bread. Spread a thin layer of **butter** on one side of each slice of bread. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and place the slices of bread, butter-side-down. Toast them until golden and crispy, about **2-3 minutes** per side. You want the bread to be nice and crunchy to hold up against the chicken and cheese.

#### Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich
Now it’s time to put everything together! On the unbuttered side of one slice of bread, spread a spoonful of **marinara sauce**, then layer the crispy chicken cutlet on top. Sprinkle **shredded mozzarella cheese** generously over the chicken. If you like, add a little more marinara sauce or some fresh basil for extra flavor.

Top with the other slice of toasted bread, buttered side out, and press gently to help the cheese melt.

#### Step 6: Grill the Sandwich
Place the assembled sandwich back into the skillet or griddle, butter-side-down. Grill for about **2-3 minutes per side** until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted inside. You may want to lower the heat a little to ensure the cheese melts before the bread gets too dark.

#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sandwich is golden, crispy, and melty, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a minute before slicing. Cut it in half, serve, and enjoy your **Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich** with a side of extra marinara sauce for dipping or a simple salad.

### Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

1. **Double the Cheese**: For extra gooeyness, you can add a layer of both **mozzarella** and **provolone** cheese inside the sandwich. This will make it even more indulgent!

2. **Add Fresh Basil**: If you’re a fan of fresh basil, adding a few leaves to the sandwich before grilling will give it a burst of fresh, herby flavor that complements the chicken and marinara sauce.

3. **Air-Fried Chicken**: For a healthier twist, you can air-fry the breaded chicken cutlets instead of pan-frying them. This will give them a crispy texture without the extra oil.

4. **Use a Cast Iron Skillet**: If you have a cast iron skillet, use it to grill the sandwich. It holds heat well and creates an even, crispy crust on the bread.

5. **Marinara Sauce Options**: If you prefer a more complex flavor, try adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of balsamic vinegar to your marinara sauce before spreading it on the bread.

6. **Make it a Meal**: Pair your sandwich with a side of **crispy fries**, a **green salad**, or even a bowl of **tomato soup** for a comforting, full meal.

### Why Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a Must-Try

The **Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich** is the perfect combination of two much-loved dishes, and it’s incredibly satisfying. The crispy chicken, melted mozzarella, tangy marinara sauce, and buttery, golden toast come together in a way that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with friends and family, this sandwich is sure to impress.

So next time you’re craving comfort food, try this irresistible twist on a classic—**Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese**—and enjoy a meal that’s both familiar and exciting at the same time. It’s indulgent, cheesy, and packed with flavor—the ultimate grilled cheese experience!