Description
Culinary magic happens when classic chicken parmesan meets grilled cheese in this mouthwatering fusion masterpiece. Crispy chicken, melted mozzarella, and marinara sauce create a comfort food symphony that will make you crave another bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large egg (beaten)
Cheese:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dry Ingredients and Seasonings:
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce and Cooking Ingredients:
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 8 slices bread (Italian, sourdough, or sandwich bread)
- 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
Instructions
- Transform the chicken breasts into uniform, tender cutlets by gently pounding between plastic wrap until approximately 1/2 inch thick. Infuse with a robust blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and basil for deep, multilayered flavor profiles.
- Create a strategic breading workflow using three separate vessels: first, dust chicken in flour, eliminating excess; next, immerse in whisked eggs, ensuring complete coverage; finally, meticulously coat with Italian breadcrumbs and Parmesan, pressing firmly to guarantee a crisp, adherent crust.
- Ignite a large skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully introduce breaded chicken, allowing each side to caramelize into a gorgeous golden-brown exterior, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Verify doneness by confirming internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow chicken to rest briefly before slicing into elegant strips.
- Construct sandwich foundations by generously spreading marinara across bread surfaces. Layer strategically with sliced chicken, additional marinara, abundant mozzarella, and a delicate Parmesan sprinkle. Crown with complementary bread slice, marinara facing inward.
- Enhance exterior with butter, ensuring complete coverage. Position sandwiches on preheated skillet maintained at medium temperature. Grill approximately 3-4 minutes per side until bread achieves golden-brown perfection and cheese melts luxuriously.
- Extract sandwiches, permit momentary cooling. Slice diagonally, presenting alongside extra marinara for optional dipping indulgence.
Notes
- Tenderize chicken carefully to ensure even cooking and prevent toughness, using gentle, consistent pressure when pounding.
- Enhance breading adherence by letting coated chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before frying, allowing the coating to set and create a crispier texture.
- Control heat while grilling sandwiches to achieve perfect golden-brown exterior without burning, adjusting flame to medium-low if needed.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg