If you’re searching for a mouthwatering and comforting sandwich that hits all the right notes, look no further than this Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches Recipe. Imagine crispy, golden breaded chicken breasts nestled inside a warm ciabatta bun, layered with rich pasta sauce, gooey mozzarella, and a touch of fresh pesto mayonnaise. It’s the perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will quickly turn this handheld delight into a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each bringing a unique flavor or texture to the Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches Recipe. From the crunchy panko coating to the creamy mozzarella melt and that fresh herbal kick from parsley, every item plays its part perfectly.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thin cut): Thincut pieces cook quickly and get beautifully crispy.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides a light, extra-crispy texture for the breading.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds salty, nutty depth to the crust.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the perfect base for dredging—ensure it’s seasoned well.
- 2 eggs, whisked: Helps the breading stick to the chicken for a flawless crust.
- 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder: Thoughtful seasoning that elevates flavor forward.
- 4 ciabatta buns: A rustic, airy bread that holds up to all the juicy goodness.
- 1 cup pasta sauce (your favorite): Choose a robust sauce to infuse extra flavor and moisture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that irresistible gooey layer.
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce: Offers a fresh, herbal punch that contrasts perfectly with the rich elements.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Creamy binder for the pesto mayo spread.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a bright, fresh finish when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoned Flour
Start by mixing the all-purpose flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a shallow dish. This seasoned flour is the first layer of flavor and ensures your chicken breasts have a well-seasoned base before the crunch of the breading.
Step 2: Combine Panko and Parmesan
In another shallow dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This combination adds crunch and a sharp, savory note that defines the character of this Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches Recipe.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast first into the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess, then into the whisked eggs, and finally coat well with the panko-Parmesan mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated to guarantee a crispy, golden finish after cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The result should be juicy chicken with a crispy crust that’s irresistible.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
Toast the ciabatta buns lightly, then spread a layer of pesto mixed with mayonnaise on the bottom half. Place the cooked chicken breast on top, spoon over your favorite pasta sauce, and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella. Pop the sandwiches briefly under a broiler or in a hot oven just until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Top with fresh parsley if you like, then close the sandwiches and get ready for an incredible bite of comfort and flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil can brighten the look and taste. Offering a few red pepper flakes or a dash of extra Parmesan on the side can also enhance the sandwich’s flavor profile.
Side Dishes
Pair these sandwiches with classic sides like a crisp Caesar salad, garlic Parmesan fries, or even a simple bowl of tomato soup for a meal that feels both indulgent and balanced. The key is to complement the sandwich without overwhelming its bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the sandwiches into halves or thirds and serve on a platter as party sliders. Alternatively, layering some sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers inside your sandwich can add depth and an extra layer of deliciousness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken breasts and sandwich components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the crispiness of the breading and the freshness of the bread, so your sandwiches stay delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to a month. Avoid freezing the assembled sandwiches as the bread and sauce textures do not fare as well after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken breasts in an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to retain crunchiness. Assemble your sandwich fresh to keep that perfect blend of crispy textures and melted cheese.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses besides mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for melting, provolone or fontina work well too if you want a slightly different flavor or creaminess level.
What if I don’t have ciabatta buns?
Any sturdy sandwich roll like brioche, baguette, or even a sturdy hoagie bun can be great alternatives. Just make sure it can hold up to the sauce and fillings.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The chicken can be cooked in advance and stored, then assembled when ready to serve. Just keep the buns separate until serving to avoid sogginess.
Can I bake instead of pan-frying the chicken?
Definitely. Baking at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes until crispy is a great option if you prefer less oil or an easier cleanup.
How can I make the sandwich spicier?
Try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or a spicy marinara sauce. You can also mix a bit of sriracha into the pesto mayo spread for a flavorful kick.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches Recipe is one of those dishes that makes you smile with every bite. The crispy, cheesy, saucy goodness wrapped in a warm bun feels like a hug on a plate. I really hope you give it a try and share it with friends because it’s a comfort classic that deserves a spot at your table again and again.
Print
Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
These Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches combine tender, thinly cut chicken breasts coated in a crispy Parmesan-panko crust, layered with savory pasta sauce, melted mozzarella, and a touch of pesto mayo on toasted ciabatta buns. Perfect as a comforting and flavorful meal in under an hour.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thin cut)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 eggs, whisked
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Sandwich Assembly
- 4 ciabatta buns
- 1 cup pasta sauce (your favorite)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the coating mixture: In one bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder thoroughly to create a seasoned flour mixture. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese.
- Coat the chicken breasts: Dredge each thinly cut chicken breast in the seasoned flour mixture first, shaking off any excess. Dip them into the whisked eggs, then press them firmly into the panko and Parmesan mixture to coat completely.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a couple of tablespoons of oil. Cook the coated chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Slice the ciabatta buns in half and toast them lightly. Spread a mixture of pesto and mayonnaise evenly on the bottom halves of the buns. Place the cooked chicken breasts on top.
- Add sauce and cheese: Spoon the pasta sauce generously over each chicken breast, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Melt the cheese: Place the assembled bottom halves of the sandwiches under a broiler or in a hot oven (around 375°F) for 3-5 minutes until the mozzarella melts and bubbles.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and cover with the top halves of the buns. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, toast the buns beforehand.
- Use homemade pasta sauce for richer flavor or your favorite store-bought version for convenience.
- Adding fresh basil to the pesto mayo elevates the aroma.
- You can prepare the chicken coating stations ahead of time to streamline cooking.
- Leftover sandwiches can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently.
