Chicken Parmesan Sandwich Recipe In 5 Easy Steps

There’s nothing quite like a crispy, golden chicken parmesan sandwich, loaded with melty mozzarella and rich marinara sauce, all inside a perfectly toasted hoagie roll. This classic Italian-American favorite combines crunchy breaded chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey cheese for a mouthwatering experience in every bite.

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this sandwich is easy to make and sure to please. Whether you prefer it on a hoagie roll, ciabatta, or baguette, it pairs wonderfully with fries, salad, or coleslaw for a satisfying meal.

Looking for more comfort food? Try this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta for another delicious option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’ve never tried making a chicken parmesan sandwich at home, you’re in for a treat. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen:

Crunchy, Cheesy, and Packed with Flavor – The crispy breaded chicken cutlet pairs beautifully with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese, giving you that satisfying crunch with every bite.
Family-Friendly and Versatile – Whether you’re serving kids or adults, this sandwich is a surefire hit. Plus, you can customize it with different cheeses, bread options, or even spicy add-ons.
Perfect Balance of Texture and Taste – With crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and a soft yet sturdy roll, this sandwich offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Great for Busy Schedules and Meal Prep – Make a batch of breaded chicken in advance and assemble your sandwiches when you’re ready to eat. It’s perfect for quick lunches and weeknight dinners.

Plus, you can try different variations like a rich and indulgent chicken parmesan alfredo to explore more flavors inspired by this classic dish.

Ingredients Breakdown

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to create the ultimate chicken parmesan sandwich.

For the Chicken:

Chicken breasts – Boneless, skinless, and butterflied for even cooking.
Buttermilk – Helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
Garlic salt and black pepper – For seasoning.
Olive oil – For frying to get that perfect golden crust.

For the Breading:

All-purpose flour – Provides a base for the coating.
Eggs – Helps the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
Italian seasoned breadcrumbs – The key to a flavorful and crispy coating.
Grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the breading.

For the Sauce:

Rao’s marinara sauce – A classic, high-quality sauce full of rich flavors.
Olive oil – To sauté garlic and enhance the sauce.
Fresh basil leaves – Adds a burst of freshness.
Minced garlic – For added depth of flavor.

For the Cheese:

Shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully and gives that signature stretch.
Provolone cheese – Optional, but adds a creamy texture.
Parmesan cheese – For that final, irresistible sprinkle.

For the Bread:

Hoagie rolls – Soft yet sturdy enough to hold all the fillings.
Ciabatta bread – For a slightly crispier texture.
Garlic butter – To toast the bread and add extra flavor.

Having all these ingredients on hand makes assembling your sandwich a breeze. Once you’ve got everything ready, you’re just a few simple steps away from enjoying a restaurant-quality sandwich at home.

Secrets to a Perfect Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

A chicken parmesan sandwich is simple to make, but a few key tips will take it from good to unforgettable. Here are some secrets to making the best version possible:

Choosing the Right Bread

The bread you use can make or break your sandwich. Look for options that can hold up to the sauce and melted cheese without getting soggy. Hoagie rolls, ciabatta, or Italian-style buns work best, offering a sturdy yet tender bite.

Proper Breading Techniques for Crispiness

Want that signature crunch? Here’s the trick:

Dredge the chicken in flour first to create a dry surface.
Dip it into beaten eggs to help the breadcrumbs stick.
Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken firmly to create an even coating.
Consider double breading for an extra crunchy exterior.

The Importance of High-Quality Cheese and Sauce

Using fresh, high-quality cheese and a flavorful sauce makes all the difference. Go for whole milk mozzarella and authentic marinara sauces like Rao’s for the best results. Adding a sprinkle of Parmesan on top before broiling creates a golden, cheesy crust that’s hard to resist.

How to Achieve the Perfect Balance of Flavors

Balance is key when layering your sandwich. Spread just enough sauce to coat the chicken without making the bread soggy. A layer of melted cheese seals everything together, while fresh basil or pesto adds a bright, herby touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of making the perfect chicken parmesan sandwich. Follow these simple steps to achieve crispy, cheesy perfection.

Step 1: Prepping the Chicken (Brining and Seasoning)

To ensure tender, juicy chicken, start by prepping it properly.

Butterfly the chicken breasts – Slice them in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. This helps them cook evenly and faster.
Brine in buttermilk – Soak the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results). This step tenderizes the chicken and adds subtle flavor.
Season generously – After brining, season the chicken with garlic salt, black pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning for extra taste.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, a quick seasoning of salt, pepper, and garlic powder will still give great results.

Step 2: Dredging and Coating (Flour, Eggs, Breadcrumbs)

This step is crucial to achieving that irresistible crispy coating. Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls:

Bowl 1: All-purpose flour – Lightly coat the chicken to create a dry base.
Bowl 2: Beaten eggs – Dip the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated for the breadcrumbs to stick.
Bowl 3: Breadcrumb mixture – Combine Italian seasoned breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese for extra crunch and flavor.

How to Dredge Perfectly:

Press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coat.
For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more.
Let the breaded chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.

Step 3: Frying the Chicken

Frying the chicken properly ensures it stays crispy and golden. Follow these tips for the perfect fry:

Heat oil to the right temperature – Use canola or olive oil and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining this temperature prevents greasy chicken.
Shallow fry in batches – Fry each cutlet for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Drain properly – Place fried chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet to keep it crispy. Avoid paper towels as they can make the chicken soggy.

Breaded chicken frying for a chicken parmesan sandwich to achieve a crispy golden texture.

Step 4: Assembling the Sandwich

The assembly process is where all the magic happens! Here’s how to do it right:

Toast the bread – Spread garlic butter on the hoagie rolls and toast them in the oven until golden brown.
Layer the marinara sauce – Spoon a generous amount of warm marinara sauce onto the toasted bread.
Add the crispy chicken – Place the fried chicken cutlet on top of the sauce.
Top with cheese – Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan generously over the chicken.
Add fresh basil – For an extra touch of flavor and freshness.

Layering marinara sauce, crispy chicken, and melted cheese for a chicken parmesan sandwich.

Step 5: Broiling to Perfection (Melting Cheese and Crisping Up)

For that perfect melted, bubbly cheese topping, broiling is the way to go.

Place the assembled sandwich on a baking sheet.
Broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Keep a close eye to avoid burning—melted cheese can go from golden to burnt quickly!

And there you have it! A crispy, cheesy, perfectly toasted chicken parmesan sandwich ready to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

A chicken parmesan sandwich is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and toppings can take it to the next level.

Perfect Side Dishes:

Crispy fries – Classic and always satisfying.
Coleslaw – Adds a crunchy, refreshing contrast.
Garlic bread – Because you can never have too much garlic!
Side salad – A light and healthy complement to balance the richness.

Best Condiments and Dips:

Ranch dressing – For a creamy, tangy kick.
Pesto sauce – Adds a herby, garlicky flavor.
Spicy marinara – For those who like an extra kick.

Party-Size Ideas:

If you’re hosting a gathering, consider making party-size chicken parmesan sliders using mini brioche buns. They’re a hit at any event!

A freshly made chicken parmesan sandwich served with fries and a side salad

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

Want to take your sandwich game up a notch? Here are some expert tips to ensure perfection every time:

Keep the chicken crispy: Always store fried chicken separately from the bread to prevent sogginess.
Use quality cheese: Whole milk mozzarella melts beautifully and provides that signature stretch.
Toast the bread properly: A light brush of garlic butter enhances both texture and flavor.
Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Consider meal prep: Store breaded chicken in the freezer for up to 3 months and reheat when needed.

Storage & Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, storing and reheating them properly is key to maintaining their deliciousness.

How to Store Fried Chicken Separately:

Keep the chicken cutlets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze cutlets individually and reheat them as needed.

Reheating Without Losing Crispiness:

Oven method: Reheat chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
Air fryer method: Place chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
Avoid the microwave, as it can make the coating soggy.

Meal Prep Ideas and Freezing Components:

Prepare chicken cutlets in advance and freeze them separately.
Assemble sandwiches fresh to keep them from becoming too soft.

Popular Variations to Try

One of the best things about chicken parmesan sandwiches is how easily they can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some delicious variations you might want to try:

1. Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

If you’re looking for a healthier and quicker option, the air fryer is your best friend. Instead of frying in oil, air frying gives you that crispy texture with less fat.

How to make it:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Place the breaded chicken cutlets in a single layer and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Assemble the sandwich as usual and broil to melt the cheese.

Why you’ll love it: This method reduces calories while still delivering a crispy, golden exterior.

2. Keto-Friendly Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

Watching your carbs? A keto-friendly version swaps the bread and breadcrumbs for low-carb alternatives while keeping the flavors intact.

Substitutions to try:

Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for breading.
Swap out traditional bread for a low-carb option, such as lettuce wraps or keto-friendly rolls.
Choose sugar-free marinara sauce to keep things low-carb.

Why you’ll love it: This version is packed with protein and healthy fats while keeping carbs in check.

3. Spicy Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

If you enjoy a little heat, adding some spice to your chicken parmesan sandwich can take it to the next level.

How to spice it up:

Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
Mix some hot sauce into your marinara for an extra kick.
Use spicy provolone cheese for added heat.

Why you’ll love it: The spice pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy goodness of the sandwich.

4. Vegetarian Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

For those who prefer a meat-free option, a vegetarian version using breaded eggplant or plant-based chicken substitutes can be just as satisfying.

How to make it:

Substitute chicken with crispy breaded eggplant slices or a plant-based chicken patty.
Use the same sauce and cheese for an authentic taste.

Why you’ll love it: This variation is perfect for vegetarians while still being packed with flavor.

FAQs

What is the difference between chicken parmesan and chicken parmigiana?

Both terms refer to the same dish, with “chicken parmesan” being the Americanized version of the classic Italian “chicken parmigiana.” The dish consists of breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese.

What is on Domino’s chicken parm sandwich?

Domino’s chicken parmesan sandwich features breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheeses, all inside a toasted artisan sandwich roll.

What is the best bread for chicken sandwiches?

The best bread for a chicken parmesan sandwich is sturdy yet soft enough to absorb the sauce without falling apart. Great options include hoagie rolls, ciabatta, Italian-style buns, and French baguettes.

Is a chicken parm sub unhealthy?

A chicken parmesan can be high in calories and sodium due to the fried chicken, cheese, and bread. However, you can make healthier choices by baking the chicken, using whole-grain bread, and opting for lower-fat cheese.

Summary

A chicken parmesan sandwich is the ultimate comfort food—crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or just a quick indulgence, it’s always a hit. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality sandwich in the comfort of your home.

Feel free to experiment with different breads, cheeses, and seasonings to make it your own. No matter how you customize it, one thing’s for sure—every bite will be irresistibly delicious.

Looking for more comforting, cheesy recipes? Try these delicious ideas:

Creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta – A rich, creamy pasta dish that pairs perfectly with your sandwich.
Rich and indulgent chicken parmesan alfredo – A fusion of two Italian-American favorites in one dish.
A delicious twist with marry me chicken pasta – A creamy, dreamy pasta dish perfect for a cozy night in.

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