Oh boy, let me tell you about my love affair with chicken parmesan sandwiches! These delightful creations hold a special place in my heart (and stomach!). I remember my first encounter with them at a cozy little Italian deli after a long day of exploring the city. The delicious aroma wafting through the air was enough to draw me in, and I knew I was in for something magical. Since that day, I’ve made it a habit to whip up my own easy chicken parmesan sandwiches at home!
What I adore about this recipe is its comforting, cheesy goodness that’s as perfect for a casual weeknight dinner as it is for impressing friends at a weekend gathering. Plus, they’re super simple to put together! Let’s dive in and create a delicious meal that’ll have everyone begging for seconds.
What’s in Easy Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches?
– Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy cooking and a tender bite. You can also use chicken thighs if you’re feeling adventurous!
– Bread Crumbs: These add that delightful crunch to the chicken. I like to use seasoned bread crumbs for an extra kick, but plain works just fine too.
– Eggs: They act as a glue to help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken and give it that beautiful golden color when cooked.
– Marinara Sauce: A rich, tangy sauce that adds moisture and flavor. You can go for homemade or store-bought—no judgment here! My go-to is the good ol’ classic brand; it gets the job done beautifully.
– Fresh Mozzarella: Oh, the melted goodness! It’s creamy, stretchy, and elevates the sandwich to a whole new level, making it truly irresistible.
– Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this adds depth and a nice salty punch to the flavor. Always a must in classic chicken parmesan!
– Sub Rolls: These are perfect for holding everything together. I like to choose a crusty roll that adds texture but is still soft enough to bite into.
– Basil (optional): Add some fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness. I love how it brightens the whole sandwich.
Is Easy Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health factors for a second. These chicken parmesan sandwiches have some great aspects to them!
– Chicken Breasts: They are a fantastic source of lean protein and contain essential nutrients that fuel our bodies. You can even opt for grilled chicken if you prefer a healthier version.
– Marinara Sauce: It’s rich in vitamins, especially when made from fresh tomatoes. Just watch out for the sugar content in store-bought sauces—some sneak in more sugar than necessary!
– Cheeses: While delicious, mozzarella and parmesan do contain fats and should be enjoyed in moderation. But hey, a little indulgence now and then is totally okay!
– Bread: You can swap regular sub rolls for whole grain or gluten-free versions if that’s your jam!
Overall, these sandwiches can fit into a balanced diet, especially when enjoyed with a side of veggies or a big salad!
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup bread crumbs (seasoned if possible)
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 ball fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 sub rolls
– Fresh basil leaves (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
**Serves:** 2 hungry folks or one very hungry friend!
How to Make Easy Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches?
1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get it ready for the cheesy goodness to come!
2. Get a cutting board and place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. With a meat mallet or a rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly!
3. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
4. Then, set up your breading station: Place flour in one bowl (optional, but can help with sticking), whisk the eggs in a second bowl, and put the breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
5. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour (if using) and shake off the excess. Next, dip it into the eggs, allowing any excess to drip off before coating it with breadcrumbs. Press down gently to ensure they stick.
6. In a large skillet, heat a good drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely golden brown.
7. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce on top, then place the slices of fresh mozzarella over the sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
8. Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melty and bubbly.
9. While it’s baking, slice your sub rolls in half (but not all the way through!) to make a pocket.
10. When the chicken is ready, pull it from the oven and place the cheesy chicken right inside the sub roll. Top with fresh basil if desired.
11. Serve these gorgeous sandwiches hot, and enjoy!
Get Creative with Your Sandwiches!
This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few fun variations and ideas:
– Kick it up a notch with some spicy marinara or add a few pepperoncini for a zesty kick.
– Swap the chicken for eggplant to create a delightful vegetarian version.
– Don’t have sub rolls? Use any type of bread you have on hand—Texas toast works in a pinch!
– For a lighter version, skip the frying and grill the breaded chicken instead, then top with sauce and cheese before popping them in the oven to melt.
I honestly can’t wait for you to try these Easy Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches! They’re quick, comforting, and ooze cheesy goodness that is sure to please. Your kitchen will smell divine, and I just know your family or friends will be asking for more. Give them a whirl, and let me know how it goes! Happy cooking!
