Name: Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon milk; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ⅓ cup olive oil (for frying); 1 ½ cups marinara sauce; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 4 Italian sandwich rolls or hoagie buns; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for toasting rolls); Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

If you love a sandwich that's crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and oozing with gooey cheese, this is the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich of your dreams! Every bite is a symphony of golden-brown breaded chicken, rich marinara, and bubbly melted mozzarella-all hugged by a perfectly toasted bun.

It's everything you adore about classic chicken parm, but hand-held and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The best part? You can have these irresistible, restaurant-worthy sandwiches on your table in under an hour!

Inspired by my favorite Italian-American diners, this recipe is comfort food at its finest. Serve them up for dinner, bring them to your next game day party, or treat yourself midweek-you really can't go wrong.

Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sandwich with melted cheese and marinara on a toasted bun

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Crispy, juicy chicken with minimal fuss-ready in just 45 minutes!
Melty cheese and tangy marinara make every bite utterly satisfying.
Family-friendly and perfect for weeknight dinners or game days.
Easily customizable for your favorite flavors or dietary needs.

Key Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Breasts

The star of the show! Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced in half horizontally for even cooking and the perfect sandwich size. You can use thighs if you prefer juicier, more flavorful meat-just pound them to an even thickness for best results.

Panko Breadcrumbs

Panko brings the crunch! These Japanese-style breadcrumbs create an extra crisp coating that stays light and golden when fried. If you only have regular breadcrumbs, they'll work too, but the texture will be a bit less airy. For extra flavor, try using Italian-seasoned panko.

Marinara Sauce

A good-quality marinara sauce adds that essential tang and savoriness. Use your favorite store-bought brand for convenience, or make your own if you have extra time. Want to mix it up? Try a spicy arrabbiata or a garlicky tomato basil sauce.

Mozzarella Cheese

Nothing beats that stretchy, melty mozzarella layer! I recommend using low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella for great melt and less sogginess. Fresh mozzarella works for a creamier vibe but can be a bit wetter-just pat it dry before using.

Soft Italian Rolls

A sturdy yet soft roll is crucial for holding all that saucy, cheesy chicken together. Italian hoagie rolls, ciabatta, or even brioche buns all work well. Toasting the bread adds flavor and helps prevent sogginess.

Chicken Parmesan Sandwich cooking process

Instructions for Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep the Chicken

Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create two thin cutlets (you'll have 4 pieces total). Place between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to about ½-inch thick for even cooking.

Bread the Chicken

Set up a breading station: place flour in one shallow bowl, whisk eggs and milk in a second bowl, and combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a third. Dredge each cutlet in flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in the panko mixture. Press gently so the crumbs stick well.

Fry Until Crispy

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When hot and shimmering, fry each chicken cutlet for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Toast the Rolls

Preheat your oven broiler to high. Split the sandwich rolls and spread the cut sides with butter. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes, cut side up, until golden and toasted-watch closely to prevent burning!

Assemble and Melt

Place the fried chicken cutlets on the bottom halves of the toasted rolls. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Return to the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Finish and Serve

Top with fresh basil leaves if desired, close the sandwiches, and serve immediately. Enjoy that crispy, cheesy, saucy perfection!

Recipe Variations

Make It Spicy

Love a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle a little cayenne into the breadcrumb mixture. You can even use a spicy marinara or top with sliced pickled jalapeños for extra heat.

Go Gluten-Free

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free panko and rolls. Double-check that your marinara sauce is gluten-free as well. The result is just as deliciously crispy and cheesy!

Healthier Baked Option

Instead of frying, bake the breaded chicken cutlets on a wire rack over a baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping once. You'll still get great crunch with less oil.

Veggie Parmesan Sandwich

Swap the chicken for thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms. Prepare and bread them the same way-just bake or fry until tender and golden.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your Chicken Parmesan Sandwich with a simple green salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette or a side of roasted garlic parmesan fries. Add a dill pickle spear for crunch and some extra marinara on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh basil or a little extra Parmesan on top adds a fresh, fragrant finish.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover sandwiches (preferably unassembled) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until hot and crispy, then assemble with sauce and cheese before broiling briefly to melt. The breaded chicken cutlets can also be frozen (wrapped tight) for up to 2 months-thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Parmesan Sandwich (FAQ)

Q: Can I make the chicken ahead of time?

A: Yes! Fry the chicken cutlets ahead and store in the fridge. Reheat in the oven before assembling for best crunch.

Q: What’s the best bread for a Chicken Parmesan Sandwich?

A: Italian hoagie rolls or ciabatta are great choices-they're sturdy enough for all the saucy, cheesy goodness.

Q: Can I use store-bought breaded chicken?

A: Absolutely! While homemade is best, store-bought breaded chicken cutlets work well for an even quicker meal.

Nothing beats the classic comfort of a Chicken Parmesan Sandwich! Crispy, cheesy, and saucy, it's guaranteed to win over family and friends. Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turned out-leave a comment or a rating below. I can't wait to hear what you think!