I love a good Chicken Parmesan Sandwich Recipe. There’s something so comforting about biting into a crispy chicken cutlet, smothered in marinara sauce and melted cheese, all tucked into a warm, crusty roll. This sandwich is one of my absolute favorites and it brings back sweet memories of family dinners and casual lunches. If you’re looking for a delicious meal that’s easy to prepare, then this recipe is for you.
What Makes a Great Chicken Parmesan Sandwich?
A fantastic Chicken Parmesan Sandwich starts with quality ingredients. The chicken should be tender and juicy, the marinara should be rich and flavorful, and the cheese should melt perfectly. The roll needs to be sturdy enough to hold everything without falling apart.
Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Sandwich Recipe
Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Olive oil for frying
Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Sandwich:
How to Prepare Chicken Parmesan Sandwich Recipe
The first thing I like to do is prepare the chicken. This step is critical for making sure the chicken is flavorful and crispy.
- Flatten the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly.
- Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, add the flour mixed with salt and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and garlic powder.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press down so that the crumbs stick well.
Frying the Chicken
Frying is the next step and it adds that beautiful golden crust to the chicken.
- Heat the Oil: Pour enough olive oil into a large skillet to cover the bottom. Heat over medium-high heat.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Making the Marinara Sauce
If you opt for homemade sauce, it’s easy to whip up. If you’re short on time, store-bought is perfectly fine too.
- Simmer the Sauce: Heat the marinara sauce in a pot over medium heat. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. A pinch of sugar can help balance acidity if it’s too tangy.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now comes the fun part: putting everything together!
- Prep the Rolls: Slice the crusty rolls in half. You can toast them lightly on a skillet or in the oven for added crunch.
- Layer It Up: Start with a chicken cutlet on the bottom half of the roll. Spoon over a generous amount of marinara sauce, and then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Finishing Touches
- Garnish: After broiling, top the sandwiches with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Close It Up: Place the top half of the roll on and press down gently.
Serving Chicken Parmesan Sandwich Recipe
I love serving these sandwiches with a side of crispy fries or a fresh garden salad. Here are some other ideas:
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness pairs well with the savory sandwich.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch that complements the richness.
- Pickles: The acidity cuts through the flavors beautifully.
Storage Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Place leftover sandwiches in an airtight container. They can last up to 2 days in the fridge.
- Reheat: To reheat, place the sandwich in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This keeps the bread crispy.
Variations on Chicken Parmesan Sandwich Recipe
I love trying different spins on the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich. Here are some fun variations:
- Spicy Chicken Parmesan: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs for a kick.
- Veggie Version: Substitute chicken with eggplant slices for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Pesto Chicken Parmesan: Spread pesto on the rolls before adding the chicken for an herby twist.
Nutritional Information
Eating this delicious sandwich occasionally is totally fine, but it’s good to be aware of what you’re consuming.
- Calories: Approximately 700-800 calories per sandwich (calories may vary based on ingredients)
- Protein: Around 40g from the chicken and cheese
- Fat: Approximately 30g, mainly from frying
- Carbohydrates: Roughly 50g from the roll and sauce
This Chicken Parmesan Sandwich Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this sandwich is sure to impress.