The Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich is a delicious and satisfying option for lunch or dinner. This sandwich takes the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan and transforms them into a handheld meal that is perfect for on-the-go or a quick and easy meal at home. The sandwich features tender and juicy chicken, homemade marinara sauce, and melted cheese, all sandwiched between two slices of bread and cooked on a griddle until crispy and golden brown.
What makes the Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich a great option is its versatility and convenience. It combines the flavors of a traditional chicken Parmesan dish with the convenience of a sandwich. It can be easily customized to suit individual preferences by adding additional toppings or substituting ingredients. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and reheated for a quick and satisfying meal.
Key Takeaways
- Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich is a delicious and easy-to-make sandwich that is perfect for lunch or dinner.
- The ingredients needed to make the sandwich include chicken breasts, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, marinara sauce, and bread.
- To prepare the chicken for the sandwich, it needs to be pounded thin, coated in bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese, and fried until golden brown.
- Making the homemade marinara sauce involves cooking onions and garlic in olive oil, adding canned tomatoes, and simmering for 20 minutes.
- Assembling the sandwich involves layering the chicken, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese on bread and grilling it on a griddle until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
Ingredients Needed to Make the Sandwich
To make the Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, you will need the following ingredients:
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Italian breadcrumbs
– Parmesan cheese
– Eggs
– Olive oil
– Garlic
– Crushed tomatoes
– Tomato paste
– Dried basil
– Dried oregano
– Salt and pepper
– Mozzarella cheese
– Sliced bread
Possible substitutions or additions for this recipe include using chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts, using different types of cheese such as provolone or cheddar, adding sliced onions or peppers for extra flavor and texture, or using a different type of bread such as ciabatta or sourdough.
Preparing the Chicken for the Sandwich
To properly prepare the chicken for the Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This will help ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and stays tender and juicy. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
Next, prepare a breading station by setting up three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, whisk together the eggs. In the second bowl, combine the Italian breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Making the Homemade Marinara Sauce
The homemade marinara sauce is what takes this Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich to the next level. To make the sauce, start by heating olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Simmer the sauce for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The homemade marinara sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
Assembling the Sandwich
To assemble the Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, start by spreading a generous amount of marinara sauce on one slice of bread. Place a cooked chicken breast on top of the sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Top with another slice of bread.
For added flavor and texture, you can also add additional toppings such as sliced onions or peppers, fresh basil leaves, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Cooking the Sandwich on a Griddle
To cook the Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, heat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Brush both sides of the sandwich with olive oil or melted butter. Place the sandwich on the griddle and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking the sandwich on a griddle allows for even heat distribution and ensures that both sides of the sandwich are cooked to perfection. The griddle also helps to achieve a crispy exterior while melting the cheese and warming the filling.
Tips for Perfectly Griddling the Sandwich
To achieve a perfectly griddled Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, follow these tips:
1. Use a non-stick griddle or skillet to prevent the sandwich from sticking.
2. Brush both sides of the sandwich with olive oil or melted butter to help achieve a crispy exterior.
3. Cook the sandwich over medium heat to allow the cheese to melt without burning the bread.
4. Press down on the sandwich with a spatula while cooking to help flatten it and ensure even cooking.
5. Flip the sandwich carefully to avoid any filling from falling out.
Serving Suggestions for the Sandwich
The Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Some ideas include serving it with a side of pasta salad, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a side of fries or sweet potato fries for a more indulgent meal.
For beverage pairings, consider serving the sandwich with a refreshing glass of iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer. The flavors of the sandwich are also complemented by a glass of red wine such as Chianti or Sangiovese.
Variations of the Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
There are several variations and substitutions you can make to customize the Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich to your liking. Here are some ideas:
– Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with breaded and fried eggplant slices or grilled portobello mushrooms.
– Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and bread, or skip the breading altogether and simply grill or sauté the chicken.
– Spicy: Add sliced jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for some heat.
– Caprese: Add sliced tomatoes and fresh basil leaves to the sandwich for a Caprese twist.
– BBQ: Substitute the marinara sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce and top the chicken with cheddar cheese and crispy bacon.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts on the Recipe
The Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich is a delicious and convenient option for lunch or dinner. It combines the flavors of chicken Parmesan with the convenience of a sandwich, making it a versatile and satisfying meal. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a tender and juicy chicken sandwich with homemade marinara sauce and melted cheese, all cooked to perfection on a griddle.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a flavorful twist on a classic dish, the Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich is sure to satisfy. Experiment with different variations and toppings to make it your own, and enjoy this delicious sandwich any time of the year.
If you’re a fan of griddle cooking, you’ll love our Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich recipe. But if you’re looking to expand your grilling skills beyond chicken, check out this article on how to grill fish on an electric grill. It provides step-by-step instructions and tips for achieving perfectly grilled fish every time. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just want to try something new on your grill, this article is a must-read. Learn more here.
FAQs
What is a Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich?
A Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich is a sandwich made with breaded and fried chicken cutlets, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, served on a griddled bun.
What is Homemade Marinara?
Homemade Marinara is a tomato-based sauce made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs. It is often used as a base for pasta dishes and as a dipping sauce.
How do you make a Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich?
To make a Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, you will need breaded and fried chicken cutlets, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Place the chicken cutlets on a griddle or skillet, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, and cook until the cheese is melted. Serve on a griddled bun.
What kind of bread is best for a Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich?
A Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich is best served on a soft, griddled bun, such as a brioche bun or a potato roll.
Can you make a Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich without marinara sauce?
While marinara sauce is a key ingredient in a Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, you can substitute it with other tomato-based sauces, such as pizza sauce or tomato sauce.
What sides go well with a Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich?
A Griddle Chicken Parmesan Sandwich pairs well with a variety of sides, such as french fries, onion rings, or a side salad.