Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches Recipe

If you dream of all the best parts of Italian comfort food in one glorious bite, these Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches will quickly become your new obsession. Crispy, golden chicken, garlicky buttery bread, zesty marinara, and ooey-gooey mozzarella come together for a sandwich that’s pure savory joy from the first bite to the last crumb.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Dreamy garlic bread meets chicken parm: Each sandwich is piled on broiled garlicky bread for knockout flavor in every bite.
  • Crispy-crunchy, juicy chicken: Crushed croutons make the coating ultra-crispy, while the chicken stays extra juicy and tender.
  • Unbelievably cheesy: Melty mozzarella, a sprinkle of parmesan, AND a swipe of pesto make these so much more than just a sandwich.
  • Fuss-free and weeknight friendly: Ready in about 40 minutes, using pantry staples and shortcuts you’ll love.
Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simple ingredient list fool you—each item builds the foundation for these craveable Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches. Here’s how each one contributes bold flavor, perfect texture, and all that glorious color.

  • Olive Oil & Unsalted Butter: The golden duo for pan-frying—olive oil keeps things light while butter gives delicious richness and browns the coating beautifully.
  • Chicken Breasts, butterflied: Splitting the breasts in half means quicker cooking and more crispy edges per bite.
  • Seasoned Croutons, crushed: Way crunchier and more flavor-packed than breadcrumbs—these make the chicken unforgettable.
  • Pesto: Fresh or store-bought, a swipe of bright pesto makes the entire sandwich pop.
  • Jarred Marinara of choice: A classic for chicken parm! Use your favorite store brand, or try a homemade bolognese for extra depth.
  • Fresh Mozzarella, sliced: Thick slices that melt into dreamy cheese pulls (and yes, you want the good stuff!).
  • Parmesan cheese: For finishing—just a sprinkle adds sharp, nutty flavor right at the top.
  • Hoagie rolls or French baguettes: Hearty bread forms the perfect, crusty base that soaks up every drop of sauce.
  • Unsalted Butter, softened: For slathering on the bread before broiling for that classic garlic bread crunch.
  • Garlic Salt with Herbs: We love Johnny’s Garlic Spread, but any brand will give your bread a savory punch.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the joys of these Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches is how adaptable they are! Don’t be afraid to tailor the recipe for your needs—swap in what you love, or tweak it for allergies and preferences.

  • Gluten-Free Version: Use your favorite gluten-free hoagie rolls and swap in gluten-free croutons or panko for breading the chicken.
  • Vegetarian Twist: Replace the chicken with crispy breaded eggplant slices for a fabulous eggplant parmesan sandwich.
  • Spicy Upgrade: Add crushed red pepper or sliced hot peppers under the cheese for a zesty, heat-forward version.
  • Lighter Option: Try grilled or baked chicken instead of pan-fried if you want something a little lighter, but still full of flavor.

How to Make Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare and Bread the Chicken

Start by butterflying your chicken breasts so they’re thin and even—this is the secret for speedy cooking and extra crunch. Dredge each piece in finely crushed seasoned croutons, making sure it’s well coated. This trick gives you all the classic “parm” crunch without the hassle of making your own breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat a swirl of olive oil and a knob of butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the breaded chicken and sear on one side, then lower the heat to medium-low so the coating stays golden—not burnt! Cook for 5 minutes, flip, and cook another 5–7 minutes until juicy and cooked through. Repeat for any remaining pieces.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Bread

While the chicken cooks, split your hoagie rolls and slather the insides with softened butter. Generously sprinkle the buttered bread with garlic salt and herbs, then place them cut-side up under the broiler until perfectly golden. Watch closely—this only takes a minute or two, and the difference it makes is huge!

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spoon a bit of warm marinara onto the toasted bottom buns. Top with your golden chicken, then ladle on a bit more sauce (because there’s no such thing as too much). Layer on the slices of mozzarella and return to the broiler until the cheese bubbles. Finish with a sprinkle of parmesan, a generous swipe of pesto, and top with the remaining garlic bread halves.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Get ready for unstoppable smiles! Slice the sandwiches in half if you’d like, and serve straight from the oven while they’re at peak cheesy, melty, garlicky goodness. These Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches are absolutely irresistible hot and bubbly!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches

  • Crouton Crush: Use a rolling pin or food processor for super-fine, even crumbs—this gives maximum crunch to every chicken bite.
  • Watch the Broiler: Keep your eyes glued to the bread under the broiler—it turns perfect then burnt in seconds, but that buttery golden crunch is worth the close attention!
  • Layer the Cheese: For seriously gooey results, lay the mozzarella in overlapping slices so it melts evenly and stretches with every bite.
  • Pesto Perfection: Don’t skip the pesto finish! It adds fresh, herby zip and clever color right before serving.

How to Serve Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches

Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Once these Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches are piping hot and melty, sprinkle on some extra grated parmesan, a touch of fresh basil, or even a bit of finely chopped parsley for a pop of color. If you like a kick, a drizzle of chili oil or a few sliced pepperoncini really take them over the top!

Side Dishes

These hearty sandwiches pair beautifully with a crisp Caesar or Italian salad, some garlicky roasted veggies, or a bowl of tomato soup for dipping. For a little indulgence, classic fries or simply-seasoned potato wedges are always welcome on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn sandwich night into a party: slice sandwiches into mini portions for a game day or potluck crowd. Or, serve open-faced as “subs” with extra marinara and melty cheese broiled on top—think of it as the ultimate mash-up between chicken parm and garlic bread pizza!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches in foil or store the components separately in airtight containers. The bread, chicken, and toppings will keep well for 2–3 days in the refrigerator, ready to reheat for the ultimate leftover lunch.

Freezing

If you want to get ahead, freeze the breaded (uncooked) or cooked chicken fillets on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat and assemble with fresh bread and toppings when you’re craving Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches—so convenient!

Reheating

For best results, reheat chicken and bread separately: warm the chicken in a 350°F oven until hot, then assemble and broil the whole sandwich for a couple minutes to refresh the bread and melt the cheese. This keeps that signature crunch intact.

FAQs

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this sandwich?

    Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully for Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches—the meat is extra juicy and flavorful. Just make sure they’re boneless and pounded to an even thickness for even cooking and crispiness.

  2. What’s the best way to crush the croutons for breading?

    You’ll get the finest, most consistent coating by pulsing seasoned croutons in a food processor, but you can also pop them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin or heavy pan.

  3. Can I make this recipe without a broiler?

    If you don’t have a broiler, you can toast the bread in the oven at a high temperature and melt the cheese by baking until bubbly—it may take a few minutes longer, but the result is still delicious.

  4. Is there a make-ahead option for busy nights?

    Yes! Bread and cook the chicken a day ahead and refrigerate; prep the garlic bread and pesto in advance, so when it’s dinnertime, just assemble and broil for fresh, cheesy perfection with zero stress.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to taste these Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches! They’re comforting, crowd-pleasing, and just a little over-the-top in the very best way. Give them a try and watch your friends and family light up with every saucy, melty, garlicky bite!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches Recipe

Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 78 reviews
  • Author: Jasmine
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Broiling, Pan-frying
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Garlic Bread Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches are a delightful twist on the classic chicken parmesan. Crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and flavorful pesto sandwiched between garlic buttered hoagie rolls make for a satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken

  • 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 2 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
  • 2 Chicken Breasts, butterflied
  • Seasoned Croutons, crushed
  • Pesto
  • Jarred Marinara of Choice
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella, Sliced
  • Parmesan

For the Sandwich

  • 4 Hoagie rolls, or French Baguettes
  • 1 Stick Unsalted Butter, softened
  • Garlic Salt with Herbs

Instructions

  1. Drizzle olive oil and butter in a pan and heat. Meanwhile, dredge chicken in crushed croutons.
  2. Cook chicken in the pan until done.
  3. Prepare the pesto.
  4. Butter and season the bread, then broil until golden.
  5. Assemble the sandwich layers and broil until cheese is bubbly.

Notes

  • The pesto can be made a day early.
  • You can use jarred sauce to save time or homemade bolognese for a delicious variation.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 1050mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 45g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star