Chicken Parmesan Sandwich Recipe: A Crispy, Cheesy Delight

There’s something truly irresistible about a Chicken Parmesan sandwich. It combines crispy, golden-brown chicken cutlets, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all nestled within a soft, toasted bun. 

Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this sandwich is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step recipe to craft the perfect Chicken Parmesan sandwich, along with some helpful FAQs to ensure you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Cutlets:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved and pounded thin

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sandwich Assembly:

• 4 sandwich rolls or hoagie buns, toasted

• 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for toasting buns)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Place the halved chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch.

3. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes:

   • Dish 1: Flour

   • Dish 2: Beaten eggs

   • Dish 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

4. Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, then coat with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Fry each breaded cutlet for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

3. Transfer fried cutlets to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Place the fried chicken cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

2. Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each cutlet.

3. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously on top.

4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

1. Brush sandwich rolls or hoagie buns with melted butter.

2. Toast them in the oven for 3-5 minutes until slightly crispy.

Step 5: Build the Sandwich

1. Place a cheesy, saucy chicken cutlet onto each toasted bun.

2. Sprinkle with freshly chopped basil for an extra burst of flavor (optional).

3. Close the sandwich and serve hot!

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for high-quality cheese and freshly baked rolls for a richer taste.

• Pound the chicken evenly: This ensures even cooking and prevents overcooked edges.

• Double-coat for extra crispiness: If you love an ultra-crispy texture, double dip the chicken in the egg and breadcrumb mixture.

• Let the chicken rest before assembling: Allowing the cutlets to rest on a wire rack for a few minutes helps retain their crispiness.

• Customize with toppings: Add arugula, spicy mayo, or a slice of prosciutto for a gourmet twist.

FAQs

1. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes! Instead of frying, place breaded cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. What’s the best bread for a Chicken Parmesan sandwich?

A sturdy sandwich roll, ciabatta, or hoagie bun works best to hold up the crispy chicken and sauce without becoming soggy.

3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the bread crispy.

4. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

You can prepare and fry the chicken cutlets ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven, add sauce and cheese, and assemble fresh.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour, and choose a gluten-free sandwich roll.

6. What sides go well with Chicken Parmesan sandwiches?

Great side dishes include garlic bread, Caesar salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.

With this easy and delicious Chicken Parmesan sandwich recipe, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful meal. Enjoy!