A delicious mashup of two classics—crispy breaded chicken, melty mozzarella, marinara, and Parmesan all toasted between buttery bread. This is comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients
For the chicken:
· 2 chicken cutlets (about 4–5 oz each), pounded to ½-inch thickness
· ¼ cup all-purpose flour
· 1 large egg, beaten
· ½ cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
· ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
· Salt and pepper to taste
· 2 tbsp olive oil for frying
For each sandwich:
· 2 slices thick Italian bread or sourdough
· 2 tbsp softened butter
· ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
· 2 tbsp marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
· 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
· Fresh basil leaves (optional)
· Sliced provolone (optional, for extra melt)
Instructions
- Bread and cook the chicken:
· Season chicken with salt and pepper.
· Set up a breading station: flour in one shallow dish, beaten egg in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with ¼ cup Parmesan in a third.
· Dredge each cutlet in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
· Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through (about 4–5 minutes per side). Transfer to a plate and slice into strips. - Assemble the sandwich:
· Butter one side of each slice of bread.
· Place one slice butter-side down in a cool skillet (non-stick or cast iron).
· Layer on: half the mozzarella, chicken strips, marinara sauce, Parmesan, basil (if using), and remaining mozzarella.
· Top with second slice of bread, butter-side up. - Grill the sandwich:
· Heat skillet over medium-low heat. Cook until the bottom is golden brown (about 4–5 minutes).
· Carefully flip and cook the other side until golden and cheese is melted (another 4–5 minutes). Press gently with a spatula. - Serve:
· Let cool for 1–2 minutes, then slice and serve with extra warmed marinara for dipping.
Tips for Success
· Meal prep shortcut: Use leftover breaded chicken cutlets, store-bought breaded chicken tenders, or even a rotisserie chicken (skip breading step).
· For extra crispiness: Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the outside of the bread instead of butter before grilling.
· Add-ins: Try a thin layer of ricotta, a few slices of pepperoni, or a drizzle of pesto.
· Oven option: Assemble sandwiches and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, for a less hands-on method.
This sandwich is rich, satisfying, and perfect for when you can’t decide between Italian and classic diner comfort food. Enjoy immediately while the cheese is gloriously gooey!