Delicious Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches: Quick & Cheesy!

Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches are more than just a meal; they are a culinary experience that brings comfort and joy with every bite.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly toasted hero roll, cradling a succulent piece of breaded chicken, fried to golden perfection, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and blanketed with gooey, melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that truly satisfies. This beloved dish draws its heritage from the classic Italian-American Chicken Parmesan, a staple that evolved from Italian eggplant or veal parmigiana, finding a new, popular identity with chicken. Transforming it into a sandwich was a stroke of genius, making this hearty and flavorful meal portable and immensely satisfying. People adore these Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches for their incredible combination of crispy, tender chicken, the tangy sweetness of the tomato sauce, and the irresistible creaminess of the melted cheese, all held together by a sturdy, yet soft, roll. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a hearty lunch or a fulfilling dinner. Get ready to elevate your sandwich game!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Cutlets:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 – 2 pounds total)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, plus more for seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• For the Breading Station:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, whisked with 1 tablespoon water or milk
  • 1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs (Japanese style, for extra crispiness)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is always best!)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• For Frying:
  • 3-4 cups vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil (for pan-frying)
• For the Quick Homemade Marinara Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
  • ½ medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (good quality is key here!)
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adds a nice warmth)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (to balance acidity, optional)
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish, optional)
• For Assembling the Sandwiches:
  • 4 crusty Italian hoagie rolls or sub rolls (about 8-10 inches each), split lengthwise but not all the way through
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, low-moisture, part-skim
  • ½ cup provolone cheese, sliced or shredded
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Equipment You’ll Need:

• Large cutting board
• Meat mallet or heavy rolling pin
• Shallow dishes or pie plates (3 for the breading station)
• Large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven (for frying)
• Wire rack with a baking sheet underneath
• Medium saucepan (for marinara sauce)
• Oven-safe baking sheet
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Tongs
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Spatula or slotted spoon

Prep Work & Marinara Sauce:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Carefully slice each breast horizontally through the middle to create two thinner cutlets. You should now have 8 thinner pieces. Place one cutlet between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a large zip-top bag. Using a meat mallet or a heavy rolling pin, pound the chicken until it is about ¼ to ½-inch thick. This step is crucial for even cooking and tenderness! Repeat with the remaining chicken cutlets. Once all cutlets are pounded, season them lightly on both sides with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon onion powder. Set aside.
2. Start the Marinara Sauce: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. You’ll notice its edges becoming clear and its pungent aroma mellowing, laying a sweet foundation for our sauce.
3. Add Aromatics and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and cook for about 30 seconds to bloom the spices, releasing their aromatic oils. The kitchen will start to smell amazing right about now!
4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes (undrained). Stir in the granulated sugar (if using), ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld and deepen. While the sauce is simmering, you can prepare your breading station.
5. Taste and Adjust: Before using, taste the marinara sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more salt, pepper, or a pinch more sugar if it’s too acidic. If you like a smoother sauce, you can briefly blend a portion of it with an immersion blender.

Preparing the Breading Station:

1. Set Up Your Stations: Arrange three shallow dishes or pie plates in a row.
2. First Dish (Flour): In the first dish, place 1 cup of all-purpose flour.
3. Second Dish (Egg Wash): In the second dish, whisk together the 2 large eggs with 1 tablespoon of water or milk until well combined.
4. Third Dish (Breadcrumbs & Seasoning): In the third dish, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Mix these ingredients thoroughly with a fork to ensure they are evenly distributed. This seasoned breadcrumb mixture is what gives our Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches their incredible flavor and crunch!

Breading the Chicken Cutlets:

1. Prepare for Breading: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This is where you’ll place the breaded cutlets before frying.
2. The Breading Process (Assembly Line Style): Work with one chicken cutlet at a time.
   1. Flour: First, dredge the chicken cutlet in the flour, making sure it’s completely coated. Gently shake off any excess flour.
   2. Egg Wash: Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess egg drip off.
   3. Breadcrumbs: Finally, place the egg-coated chicken into the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto both sides of the chicken, ensuring an even and thick coating. Don’t be shy here; a good coating means a crispy crust!
3. Repeat and Store: Transfer the breaded cutlet to your prepared baking sheet. Repeat this breading process with all remaining chicken cutlets. If you have time, place the breaded chicken in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes. This helps the breading adhere better during frying, resulting in a crispier crust.

Pan-Frying the Chicken Cutlets:

1. Preheat Oven and Prep for Assembly: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for the final sandwich assembly.
2. Heat the Oil: Pour 3-4 cups of vegetable oil (or your preferred frying oil) into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven until it reaches a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a tiny pinch of breadcrumbs into it; they should sizzle vigorously and turn golden brown within a few seconds.
3. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place 2-3 breaded chicken cutlets into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). The crust should be beautifully crisp and a deep golden color.
4. Drain Excess Oil: Using tongs, carefully remove the cooked chicken cutlets from the oil and transfer them to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows excess oil to drain off and helps keep the chicken crispy while you fry the remaining pieces. Lightly season with a pinch of salt immediately after frying.
5. Keep Warm: If you need to cook in batches and want to keep the earlier pieces warm, you can place the baking sheet with the wire rack into a low oven (around 200°F / 95°C) while you finish frying.

Assembling the Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches:

1. Prepare the Rolls: Arrange the split hoagie rolls on your parchment-lined baking sheet. For a slight toast and extra protection against sogginess, you can lightly brush the cut sides of the rolls with a little olive oil and bake them for 3-5 minutes until just barely golden, or you can skip this if you like a softer roll.
2. Layer the Sauce: Spoon a generous amount of your warm marinara sauce onto the bottom half of each hoagie roll. Don’t be shy; a good layer of sauce is essential for a juicy sandwich!
3. Add the Chicken: Place one or two (depending on size) crispy chicken cutlets on top of the marinara sauce in each roll. If your cutlets are large, you might need to trim them slightly to fit.
4. Top with More Sauce and Cheese: Spoon a little more marinara sauce over each chicken cutlet. Then, layer with a combination of shredded mozzarella cheese and provolone slices. I love using a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor and texture. Sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan cheese over the top for that classic Italian touch.
5. Bake Until Melty and Bubbly: Place the baking sheet with the assembled sandwiches into the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, golden, and bubbly, and the rolls are lightly toasted and warm through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. If you like a little extra char on your cheese, you can carefully broil for the last minute or two, watching constantly.

Serving Your Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches:

1. Garnish and Serve: Once the Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches are out of the oven, immediately sprinkle them with fresh chopped parsley and/or fresh basil, if desired. This adds a beautiful pop of color and freshness.
2. Enjoy Warm: Serve these incredible sandwiches piping hot. They are perfect on their own, or alongside a simple green salad, some crispy potato chips, or a bowl of extra marinara sauce for dipping.
3. A Little Tip for Enjoying: These sandwiches can be gloriously messy, and that’s part of their charm! Have extra napkins ready, and perhaps serve them on a plate that can catch any delicious drippings. Each bite is a symphony of crispy chicken, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all cradled in a perfectly toasted roll. You’ve just made the most satisfying “Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches” you’ll ever taste!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed through the steps of creating what I truly believe is one of the most satisfying, comforting, and utterly delicious meals you can whip up in your own kitchen. This isn’t just another sandwich; it’s an experience, a delightful symphony of textures and flavors that will undoubtedly earn a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire. We’re talking about perfectly crispy, tender chicken cutlets, generously slathered with rich, tangy marinara sauce, all blanketed under a gooey, melty layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, nestled within a warm, toasted roll. Every single bite is a revelation, a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest ingredients, when treated with a little love and attention, can transform into something truly extraordinary. It’s hearty without being heavy, flavorful without being overly complicated, and, most importantly, it brings that beloved Italian-American restaurant quality right to your dining table. If you’ve been searching for a meal that offers both comfort and a burst of incredible taste, then this recipe is, without a doubt, a must-try for you.

Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations to Explore

Now that you’ve mastered the art of creating these incredible Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches, let’s talk about how you can elevate your meal or adapt it to suit different tastes and occasions. While these sandwiches are certainly substantial enough to stand alone, a light side dish can beautifully complement their richness. I love serving them alongside a crisp, green salad with a bright vinaigrette – the acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and sauce perfectly. A simple Caesar salad is another fantastic option. For those who prefer a more indulgent side, a serving of crispy sweet potato fries or a bowl of my favorite creamy tomato soup makes for an incredibly comforting pairing. Don’t underestimate the power of a good dill pickle spear on the side, either; its tang provides a delightful contrast.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with variations. If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, try experimenting with provolone for a sharper, nuttier flavor, or even a smoked gouda for a unique twist. For an extra kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the marinara sauce will do wonders. You could also try different types of bread; while a classic hoagie roll is my go-to, a crusty ciabatta or even a soft brioche bun could offer interesting textural differences. For my vegetarian friends, don’t feel left out! This recipe can be easily adapted by substituting the chicken cutlets with thickly sliced, breaded and fried eggplant, or even a hearty portobello mushroom cap. The essence of the dish – the sauce, cheese, and bread – remains, offering a delicious meat-free alternative. For those busy weeknights, consider preparing the breaded chicken cutlets and the marinara sauce ahead of time; then, when dinner time rolls around, all you have to do is quickly fry the chicken, assemble, and bake. It’s fantastic for meal prepping and ensures a quick, delicious dinner is always within reach.

Your Culinary Adventure Awaits!

I truly hope you feel inspired to roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a go. There’s something immensely satisfying about creating a delicious meal from scratch, and I promise you, the aroma filling your kitchen as these bake will be reward enough. This isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about embarking on a little culinary adventure, customizing it to your liking, and ultimately, enjoying the fruits of your labor. Imagine the smiles around your table as everyone takes that first glorious bite! Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or simply treating yourself to an extraordinary lunch, these sandwiches are guaranteed to be a hit.

Once you’ve experienced the pure joy of these homemade wonders, I would absolutely love to hear about it! Your feedback and experiences mean the world to me. Did you try a unique variation? Do you have a secret ingredient you added that elevated it even further? Perhaps you served it with a side dish I haven’t even considered? Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, your successes, and even your culinary experiments in the comments section below. I’m always eager to learn from your adventures in the kitchen. Better yet, snap a photo of your magnificent creation and share it! Let’s build a community of enthusiastic home cooks who aren’t afraid to dive in and create something truly special. So, go on, preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and prepare to delight your taste buds. Happy cooking, everyone!

Delicious Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches: Quick & Cheesy!

Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches are a culinary experience, offering comfort and joy with every bite. Imagine a perfectly toasted hero roll, cradling a succulent breaded chicken cutlet, fried to golden perfection, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and blanketed with gooey, melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that truly satisfies, transforming the classic Italian-American Chicken Parmesan into a portable, immensely satisfying meal. People adore these sandwiches for their incredible combination of crispy, tender chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and irresistible creamy cheese, all held together by a sturdy roll. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a hearty lunch or a fulfilling dinner.

Prep Time
1 Hours

Cook Time
40 Minutes

Total Time
40 Minutes

Servings
4 sandwiches

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5-2 lbs)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, whisked with 1 tbsp water or milk
• 1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 3-4 cups vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil (for frying)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for sauce)
• ½ medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp granulated sugar (optional)
• ½ tsp kosher salt, or to taste (for sauce)
• ¼ tsp black pepper, or to taste (for sauce)
• 4 crusty Italian hoagie/sub rolls (8-10 inch)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup provolone cheese, sliced or shredded (or fresh mozzarella)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for tucking under cheese or garnish)
• Beef pepperoni slices (optional)
• Hot peppers (e.g., pickled jalapeños, banana peppers), optional
• Thick slices of fresh tomato (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Slice each chicken breast horizontally to make 2 thinner cutlets (8 total). Pound each to ¼-½ inch thick. Season with ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder. In a saucepan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Cook diced onion 5-7 mins until translucent. Stir in minced garlic for 1 min. Add oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using); cook 30 secs. Pour in crushed & diced tomatoes. Stir in sugar (if using), ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook 20-30 mins, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasonings. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2
   Arrange three shallow dishes: 1) 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2) 2 whisked eggs with 1 tbsp water/milk, 3) 1 ½ cups Panko, ½ cup grated Parmesan, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (if using), mixed thoroughly.
3. Step 3
   Line a baking sheet. Dredge each cutlet in flour, shake off excess. Dip in egg wash. Press firmly into seasoned breadcrumbs to coat evenly. Transfer breaded cutlets to the baking sheet. Refrigerate for 15-20 mins (optional) to help breading adhere.
4. Step 4
   Heat 3-4 cups oil in a large skillet to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Fry 2-3 cutlets at a time for 3-4 mins per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F/74°C). Drain on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and lightly season with salt. Keep warm in a low oven (200°F/95°C) if frying in batches.
5. Step 5
   Arrange split hoagie rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. (Optional: lightly brush with olive oil and toast 3-5 mins for extra crispness). Spoon marinara onto bottom half of each roll. Place 1-2 crispy chicken cutlets on the sauce. Add more marinara, then layer with shredded mozzarella and provolone/fresh mozzarella (optional additions: beef pepperoni, hot peppers, fresh basil, tomato slices). Sprinkle with grated Parmesan. Bake 8-12 mins at 400°F (200°C) until cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly. (Optional: broil for the last minute or two for char).
6. Step 6
   Garnish with fresh chopped parsley/basil (optional). Serve these delicious sandwiches piping hot with extra napkins. Enjoy!

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.