Chicken Parmesan grilled cheese sandwich

### **Instructions:**

#### **1. Prepare the Chicken:**

– Start by prepping the chicken breast. To make the chicken thinner and cook more evenly, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to about ½ inch thickness.
– Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.

#### **2. Bread the Chicken:**

– Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with a beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan.
– Dredge the chicken in the flour first, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure it sticks well.

#### **3. Cook the Chicken:**

– In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken breast and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
– Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before slicing it into strips or smaller pieces, depending on your preference.

#### **4. Assemble the Sandwich:**

– Take two slices of bread and spread a thin layer of butter on the outside of each slice.
– On one slice of bread, layer a generous portion of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by a few slices of the cooked chicken. Add a spoonful of marinara sauce on top, then finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
– Place the second slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich.

#### **5. Grill the Sandwich:**

– Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and grill until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
– Use a spatula to press down gently on the sandwich, helping it to crisp up and melt the cheese inside.

#### **6. Serve and Garnish:**

– Once the sandwich is golden and the cheese is melted, remove it from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before slicing it in half.
– Garnish with fresh basil leaves, and if you like, serve with a side of extra marinara sauce for dipping.

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### **Serving Suggestions:**

The Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich is filling and flavorful on its own, but you can pair it with some delicious sides to round out the meal:

– **Crispy French Fries or Potato Wedges:** The crunchiness of fries complements the soft and cheesy interior of the sandwich.
– **Side Salad:** A simple Caesar salad or mixed greens with a balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness to balance the richness of the sandwich.
– **Garlic Bread:** Since you’re already in an Italian-inspired mood, why not serve some buttery garlic bread on the side for extra indulgence?

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### **Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe:**

– **Ultimate Comfort Food:** The Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich brings together the comforting flavors of a grilled cheese and the bold taste of chicken Parmesan in one perfect package.
– **Quick and Easy:** With only a few ingredients and a few steps, this recipe is quick to prepare—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
– **Customizable:** You can make it your own by adding extra toppings like roasted red peppers, olives, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra punch.

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### **Final Thoughts:**

This Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a fun and delicious take on two classic dishes, bringing together the best elements of both in a simple, yet flavorful way. Crispy bread, tender chicken, melty cheese, and savory marinara sauce all come together to create a sandwich that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it up for a casual lunch or impressing guests at a dinner party, this sandwich will be sure to win hearts and satisfy appetites. Enjoy!