Do Share Recipe

Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe | Easy Comfort Meal

I’ll be honest — I didn’t expect this Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese Recipe to taste this good the first time I made it. I threw it together on a weeknight when I was too tired to cook a full meal but still wanted something warm, crispy, and comforting. The combination of crispy chicken, melty cheese, and garlicky butter between perfectly toasted bread hit all the right notes.

It’s everything I love about chicken parmesan, but without all the fuss. If you love quick, cheesy, and satisfying meals, this recipe will become your go-to lazy comfort food, too! You can also try my Smashed Carrots Recipe for an easy veggie side that pairs perfectly with this sandwich.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious sandwich. I’ve added a few tips to help you get the best flavor and texture possible.

2 frozen breaded chicken patties (such as Tyson®) – Using frozen patties keeps this recipe quick and easy. Bake until golden and crispy for that perfect crunch.
2 tablespoons garlic butter, or to taste – Garlic butter adds richness and enhances the parmesan flavor. You can use store-bought or make your own with butter, minced garlic, and a pinch of parsley.
4 slices Italian bread – Italian bread works beautifully because it’s sturdy yet soft enough to soak up the buttery flavor. Avoid very thin or airy bread, as it won’t hold the fillings well.
1 cup marinara sauce – A good-quality marinara brings a tangy sweetness that complements the cheese. Go for one with simple ingredients or make your own for a fresh taste.
½ teaspoon dried basil – Adds a subtle herbal touch that makes the sauce more aromatic.
1 pinch garlic salt – Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them. A little goes a long way.
6 thin slices of provolone cheese – Melts beautifully and gives a creamy, mild flavor. Freshly sliced from the deli counter works best.
2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese – Sprinkled over the sauce for that classic chicken parm flavor. Use freshly grated Parmesan for a more intense, nutty taste.

Note: This recipe makes two hearty sandwiches — perfect for sharing or for one extra-hungry person!

Variations

Want to change things up a little? Here are some easy swaps and add-ins that work perfectly.

Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and your favorite plant-based cheese. Brands like Violife or Daiya melt nicely for a dairy-free version.
Spicy Kick: Add a few red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the marinara for some heat.
Extra Flavor: Layer in a few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for a more gourmet touch.
Healthier Option: Try air-frying the chicken patties instead of baking to reduce oil, or use whole wheat bread for extra fiber.
Cheese Swap: Mozzarella or a mix of provolone and cheddar gives a richer flavor combination.

You can also enjoy similar bold and savory flavors in my Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe if you’re in the mood for something with an Asian twist.

Cooking Time

Here’s how long this quick comfort meal takes from start to finish:

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

You won’t need much for this easy recipe, but here’s what helps things go smoothly:

Baking sheet – For cooking the chicken patties evenly until crispy.
Skillet or griddle – To grill the sandwiches to a golden, crunchy perfection.
Microwave-safe bowl – To warm up the marinara sauce quickly.
Spatula – Helps flip the sandwiches without losing that cheesy filling.
Knife – To cut the chicken patties in half and the sandwich for serving.

How to Make Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

This recipe is as easy as it gets — just bake, assemble, and grill!

Step 1: Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the frozen chicken patties on a baking sheet and bake them for about 20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and crispy on the outside. Once done, slice each patty in half lengthwise so they fit nicely in the sandwich.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread and Sauce

Spread garlic butter generously on one side of each slice of Italian bread. In a small microwave-safe bowl, mix marinara sauce, dried basil, and garlic salt. Heat it in the microwave for 30 seconds to a minute, just until warm and fragrant.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, on your heated skillet. Add two slices of provolone cheese, a spoonful of marinara sauce, and the halved chicken patties on top. Add another spoonful of sauce, another slice of provolone, and then top it with the second slice of bread (butter side up).

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Cook the sandwich over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and gooey. Keep an eye on the heat — you don’t want to burn the bread before the cheese melts.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch

Warm up the remaining marinara sauce and stir in the shredded Parmesan. Serve this sauce on the side for dipping — it’s the perfect cheesy, tangy complement to your sandwich.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this sandwich several times, I’ve learned a few tricks that make it even better:

Always let the chicken patties rest for a few minutes after baking so they stay crispy inside the sandwich.
Don’t skimp on the garlic butter — it’s what gives the bread that golden crunch.
Use fresh provolone and Parmesan for a more authentic, rich flavor.
If you like extra melty cheese, cover your skillet with a lid for a minute while grilling.
I sometimes add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a slight kick — totally worth it!

How to Serve Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese

This sandwich is indulgent enough to stand on its own, but I love serving it with a few easy sides. Pair it with a crisp Caesar salad, garlic fries, or a bowl of tomato soup for dipping. For presentation, slice the sandwich diagonally to show off that gorgeous, cheesy center — it’s definitely Instagram-worthy!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick breakdown of the key nutrition facts per serving:

Calories: 752
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 45g

It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that balances crispy texture, cheesy comfort, and plenty of protein.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

If you have leftovers, let the sandwiches cool completely before wrapping them in foil or placing them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken patties separately and assemble fresh sandwiches later. Wrap the patties tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, place the sandwich in a toaster oven or skillet to restore its crispiness. Avoid microwaving—it can make the bread soggy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sandwich isn’t just lazy—it’s smart cooking at its best. Here’s why it’ll win you over:

Super Easy to Make: With minimal prep and simple steps, anyone can make it—even on the busiest nights.
All-in-One Comfort Food: You get crispy chicken, melted cheese, and garlicky bread all in one bite.
Customizable: Whether you go spicy, cheesy, or dairy-free, it’s easy to make it your own.
Kid-Approved and Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the flavors of chicken parmesan—and this version is handheld and fun to eat.
Quick Clean-Up: Only one skillet and a baking sheet—no pile of dishes to deal with afterward!

This Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese proves that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to enjoy something that tastes homemade and comforting. With golden, buttery bread and layers of cheesy, saucy goodness, it’s the ultimate “lazy” meal that doesn’t taste lazy at all.

Ben Carraoli