Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

If you’re craving a sandwich that perfectly balances crispy, juicy chicken with gooey cheese and zesty marinara, this Chicken Parmesan Sandwich is your new go-to comfort meal. Inspired by the classic Italian-American dish, this version transforms the beloved Chicken Parmesan into a handheld delight, perfect for lunch, dinner, or a casual get-together. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, melty mozzarella, and fresh basil that brightens the flavor, all nestled inside crusty bread. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Chicken Parmesan Sandwich recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, making it easy to whip up on any night of the week. The chicken breasts are sliced thin, allowing for even cooking and a tender bite every time. Coating the chicken in a seasoned breadcrumb and parmesan mixture adds a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft melted mozzarella and the rich marinara sauce. Fresh basil leaves add a pop of freshness, elevating the sandwich’s flavor profile. Plus, using a rustic baguette or Italian-style bread adds just the right amount of crunch and chewiness to hold everything together without overwhelming the flavors. This recipe is an excellent way to enjoy a classic dish in sandwich form, offering convenience without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets (4 cutlets total)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 ½ cups dried breadcrumbs
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 8-10 fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 French baguette or 4 Italian-style breads or French rolls, sliced in half
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1-2 cups vegetable oil (canola or vegetable), for frying

How To Make Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

Start by slicing your chicken breasts into thin cutlets. This helps them cook quickly and evenly. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which will help the coating stick better.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In three shallow bowls, prepare the breading ingredients. In the first bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each chicken cutlet first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, coat the cutlet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat 1-2 cups of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot (around 350°F or when a breadcrumb sizzles on contact), carefully add the breaded chicken cutlets. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice your chosen bread (baguette, Italian rolls, or French rolls) in half lengthwise. Lightly brush the inside of the bread with olive oil. Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce on the bottom half of the bread.

Step 6: Add Chicken and Cheese

Place the fried chicken cutlets on top of the marinara sauce. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken, then add the chopped fresh basil leaves.

Step 7: Melt the Cheese

Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve

Remove from the oven and close the sandwiches with the top halves of the bread. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• For extra crispy chicken, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy chicken.
• If you prefer, you can grill the bread lightly before assembling the sandwich for a crunchier texture.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor instead of pre-grated or powdered cheese.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying chicken to ensure even cooking and maintain oil temperature.
• Let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep the crust crispy.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or use a spicy marinara sauce to add heat.
• Different Cheese: Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a different melting quality and flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like oregano or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture for extra aroma.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with breaded eggplant slices for a vegetarian-friendly sandwich.
• Sandwich Style: Use ciabatta or focaccia bread for a different texture and flavor profile.
• Garlic Butter Bread: Spread garlic butter on the bread before adding fillings for an indulgent twist.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the sandwich on a baking sheet and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy. For longer storage, you can freeze individual chicken cutlets (without the bread) in a sealed container for up to 1 month, then thaw and reheat as needed.

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to stay juicier. Just make sure to slice them into thin cutlets and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or panko work well. You can also make your own breadcrumbs by toasting and crushing bread slices.

Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place breaded chicken cutlets on a greased baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

You can prepare the breaded chicken cutlets in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before assembling the sandwich. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

This Chicken Parmesan Sandwich recipe is a delicious, satisfying meal that combines crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil all inside crusty bread. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or casual lunch that feels like a special treat. With easy steps, versatile ingredients, and plenty of room for customization, this sandwich will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Try it out, and enjoy the comforting flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan in a convenient, handheld form!