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The Chicken Parm Sandwich is a beloved, mouthwatering creation that combines all the best elements of Italian-American cuisine. A tender, crispy breaded chicken cutlet topped with rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and nestled in a soft, warm sandwich bun, this dish brings together layers of flavor and texture that make it irresistible. Whether you’re looking to satisfy a craving for comfort food or impress your friends and family with a hearty meal, this Chicken Parm Sandwich is sure to hit the spot.
In this recipe, we take you step by step through the process of creating the perfect Chicken Parm Sandwich. From preparing the crispy chicken cutlets to assembling the sandwich with all the delicious toppings, we’ve got you covered. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of savory, crunchy, and gooey goodness. This recipe is not just for the home cook; it’s for anyone who wants to elevate their sandwich game to a whole new level.
History of the Chicken Parm Sandwich
The Chicken Parmesan, or Chicken Parmigiana, has its origins in Italy, though its popularity grew exponentially in the United States. The dish itself is an American variation of the classic Italian Melanzane alla Parmigiana (Eggplant Parmesan), which is believed to have originated in Southern Italy. The Italian version typically features eggplant slices breaded, fried, and topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. However, when Italian immigrants arrived in the United States, they adapted the recipe by substituting chicken for eggplant, creating what we know today as the Chicken Parmesan.
The Chicken Parm Sandwich came about when cooks began placing the breaded and fried chicken cutlet into a soft sandwich roll instead of serving it as a standalone entrée. This simple yet brilliant modification turned the traditional dish into a portable, handheld delight. Over time, the Chicken Parm Sandwich has become a staple in many diners, sandwich shops, and Italian restaurants, making it a go-to choice for those craving comfort food on the go.
While the recipe has evolved with different variations across regions, the core ingredients of crispy chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese remain unchanged, maintaining the timeless appeal of this dish.
Ingredients for Chicken Parm Sandwich
To create the perfect Chicken Parm Sandwich, we’ll need a few essential ingredients that work together to create the ideal balance of flavor and texture. Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need for the breaded chicken cutlets, marinara sauce, and sandwich assembly.
For the Breaded Chicken Cutlets:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for the breading)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup olive oil (for frying)
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Sandwich Assembly:
- 4 soft sandwich rolls or ciabatta buns (preferably toasted)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (fresh mozzarella works best)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Parm Sandwich
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets
The crispy breaded chicken cutlet is the star of this sandwich, so it’s important to get it just right.
Pound the Chicken Breasts
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures the chicken cooks uniformly, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and use a meat mallet to pound them to about 1/2-inch thickness. This step helps tenderize the meat while making it easier to cook evenly.
Season the Flour
In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Mix the dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed. This seasoned flour creates a flavorful base for the chicken, enhancing the taste of the breading.
Prepare the Breading Station
In two separate shallow bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, place beaten eggs. In the second bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese. The combination of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan creates a crunchy, flavorful breading that holds up well during frying.
Dredge the Chicken
Begin by dipping each chicken breast into the seasoned flour, coating it evenly. Shake off any excess flour. Then, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, coat the chicken with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
Fry the Chicken Cutlets
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken cutlets to the skillet. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinara Sauce
A good marinara sauce adds a rich, tangy layer of flavor that perfectly complements the crispy chicken cutlets.
Sauté the Garlic
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning
Add the crushed tomatoes to the saucepan, stirring to combine. Season with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend it using an immersion blender.
Finish the Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add a little extra salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for heat if desired. Remove the sauce from the heat and set it aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Parm Sandwich
Now it’s time to assemble the sandwich. This step brings all the components together for the ultimate Chicken Parm Sandwich.
Toast the Sandwich Rolls
Cut the sandwich rolls in half and lightly toast them in a pan or under a broiler for a few minutes. This gives the rolls a nice, crispy texture that holds up well against the sauce and prevents them from getting soggy.
Add the Chicken Cutlets
Place a crispy chicken cutlet on the bottom half of each toasted sandwich roll. If the cutlet is too large, you can trim it to fit the roll or break it in half.
Top with Marinara Sauce
Spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce over the chicken cutlets. Be sure to cover the entire cutlet with sauce, ensuring each bite is flavorful and moist.
Add the Cheese
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the marinara sauce. Add a little Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. If you want the cheese to melt perfectly, you can place the open sandwich halves under a broiler for a minute or two, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve
If desired, top the sandwich with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Place the top half of the sandwich roll on top of the cheese, and your Chicken Parm Sandwich is ready to serve.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Cut the sandwich in half for easy handling and serve it hot, alongside your favorite side dish, such as crispy fries, salad, or garlic bread. Every bite is filled with a satisfying crunch, savory chicken, tangy marinara, and melty cheese. This Chicken Parm Sandwich will undoubtedly become a go-to meal in your home.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parm Sandwich
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best texture and flavor. While shredded mozzarella works, fresh mozzarella has a richer taste and a creamier texture when melted.
- Double breading: For an extra crispy texture, you can double-bread the chicken. Dip the chicken into the egg and breadcrumbs, then repeat the process for an additional coating.
- Make it ahead: If you want to prep ahead of time, you can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 4 hours before frying. You can also make the marinara sauce a day in advance to save time.
- Add extra flavor: You can add a layer of fresh spinach, sauteed onions, or mushrooms to the sandwich for additional texture and flavor.
- Use a good-quality bun: The sandwich roll should be sturdy enough to hold the crispy chicken and sauce without falling apart. Opt for ciabatta, sub rolls, or hoagie buns for the best results.
Conclusion
The Chicken Parm Sandwich is a hearty, flavorful meal that combines crispy chicken, tangy marinara, and gooey cheese—all inside a soft, toasted sandwich bun. With its roots in Italian-American cuisine, this sandwich is a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for any meal. By following this detailed recipe, you can recreate this classic at home and enjoy it with your loved ones. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or as a casual meal, this Chicken Parm Sandwich will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.