Background and History
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that features breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. This dish originated in Italian immigrant communities in the United States, drawing from traditional Italian recipes like Melanzane alla Parmigiana (Eggplant Parmesan). The Lazy Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese is a delightful twist on this beloved dish, combining the flavors of Chicken Parmesan with the simplicity of a grilled cheese sandwich. This fusion dish is perfect for those who crave the taste of Chicken Parmesan but want a quicker, more convenient meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or sliced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 8 slices of bread (sourdough, Italian, or your favorite)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Useful and Interesting Facts
- The combination of chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese provides a satisfying mix of flavors and textures.
- Using pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken makes this recipe quick and easy to prepare.
- Grilled cheese sandwiches are a comfort food staple, and this version adds an Italian flair to the classic recipe.
Recipe Instructions
Serves
4
Time
10 minutes (preparation)
Cooking Time
15 minutes
Cooking Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
- Shred or slice the cooked chicken.
- Warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan or microwave.
- Mix the softened butter with Italian seasoning and garlic powder (if using).
Assemble Sandwiches
- Spread a thin layer of the seasoned butter on one side of each bread slice.
- On the unbuttered side of 4 bread slices, layer shredded chicken, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Top each with another slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
Cook Sandwiches
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
Serve
- Remove from heat and let the sandwiches cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve with additional marinara sauce for dipping if desired.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
Notes
- For a lighter version, use whole wheat bread and reduce the amount of cheese.
- You can customize this recipe by adding ingredients like sautéed spinach, sliced tomatoes, or basil leaves.
- This recipe is a great way to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.
Allergy Warning
- Contains dairy (cheese and butter).
- Contains gluten (bread).
- Ensure all ingredients are free from cross-contamination if you have food allergies.
Why is it called chicken parmesan?
Chicken Parmesan is named after the Parmesan cheese used in the dish, which is a key ingredient in the traditional Italian recipe, “Melanzane alla Parmigiana” (Eggplant Parmesan). The dish features breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted Parmesan cheese.
What is the difference between chicken parmigiana and parmesan?
Chicken Parmigiana and Chicken Parmesan are essentially the same dish, with “Parmigiana” being the Italian term and “Parmesan” the Americanized version. Both involve breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and cheese, typically mozzarella and Parmesan.
What is parmesan chicken made of?
Parmesan chicken is made of breaded chicken breasts, marinara sauce, and a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The chicken is typically baked or fried before being topped with the sauce and cheese, then broiled until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Does parmesan taste good on grilled cheese?
Yes, Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory flavor to grilled cheese sandwiches. Its sharp, nutty taste complements the creaminess of other cheeses, like mozzarella, creating a deliciously complex flavor profile.
Which is tastier Parmesan or mozzarella?
Parmesan and mozzarella offer different flavors: Parmesan is sharp, salty, and nutty, while mozzarella is mild, creamy, and slightly tangy. Which one is tastier depends on personal preference and the dish being prepared.
Should I melt Parmesan cheese?
Parmesan cheese can be melted, but it doesn’t melt as smoothly as mozzarella or cheddar. It is often grated and used to add a savory, umami flavor to dishes like pasta, risotto, and soups.
How is Parmesan best eaten?
Parmesan is best eaten grated over pasta, salads, and soups, or shaved onto dishes for a finishing touch. It can also be enjoyed on its own, paired with fruits, nuts, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
Why is Parmesan so tasty?
Parmesan is so tasty because of its rich umami flavor, which develops during the long aging process. The cheese’s complex flavor profile includes nutty, salty, and savory notes that enhance many dishes.
Can Muslims eat Parmesan?
Muslims can eat Parmesan if it is made with halal-certified ingredients and processes. Traditional Parmesan is made with animal rennet, which is not halal, but there are halal-certified versions available.
Why is Parmesan so expensive?
Parmesan is expensive due to its lengthy aging process, which can take up to 24 months or more. The labor-intensive production and strict quality controls in the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) regions also contribute to its higher cost.
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