The Chicken Parmesan Sub is a warm and hearty twist on a classic dish. With crispy, golden chicken breasts, tangy marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, all nestled in a toasted sub roll, this sandwich is a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, pounded to ¼ inch thickness
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
2 large eggs, beaten
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
4 tablespoons olive oil

For the Subs:

4 sub rolls, split lengthwise
1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
8 slices mozzarella cheese
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Chicken:

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip into beaten eggs, and coat with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

3. Fry the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Fry the chicken for 4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.

4. Assemble the Subs:

Place the sub rolls on a baking sheet.
Spread marinara sauce on the bottom half of each roll. Place a fried chicken breast on top, spoon additional marinara sauce over the chicken, and layer with two slices of mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.

5. Bake the Subs:

Bake in the preheated oven for 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve:

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: 873
Protein: 52 g
Carbohydrates: 84 g
Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
Sodium: 1391 mg
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 9 g
Vitamin A: 739 IU
Calcium: 451 mg

The Magic of Crispy Chicken

The foundation of any great Chicken Parmesan Sub is the chicken itself. Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly, while the breading process adds both flavor and crunch. Panko breadcrumbs, seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs, create a golden, crispy coating that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken inside.

Frying the chicken before assembling the subs locks in moisture and gives the sandwich its signature crispiness. For a lighter version, you can bake or air-fry the breaded chicken while still achieving a satisfying crunch.

Why Marinara Sauce is Essential

Marinara sauce is the tangy, flavorful heart of this dish. Its bright acidity balances the richness of the chicken and cheese, while its herbaceous notes complement the seasoning in the breading. Using a high-quality marinara sauce—whether store-bought or homemade—can make a significant difference in the final flavor of your Chicken Parmesan Sub.

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to the marinara sauce before assembling the subs.

The Role of Cheese in the Perfect Sub

Cheese is the crowning glory of a Chicken Parmesan Sub. Mozzarella’s creamy, mild flavor and perfect melting qualities make it the ideal choice for this sandwich. Topping the mozzarella with grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty layer of flavor that ties everything together.

For a more indulgent version, you can use a combination of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan to create a richer, cheesier sandwich.

The Importance of a Good Sub Roll

The bread can make or break a Chicken Parmesan Sub. A sturdy sub roll with a slightly crispy crust and soft interior is ideal for holding up to the saucy, cheesy filling. Toasting the roll before assembling the sandwich adds an extra layer of texture and ensures it doesn’t become soggy from the marinara sauce.

For an artisanal touch, try using ciabatta rolls, baguettes, or even focaccia for a different flavor and texture.

Why This Dish is Perfect for Any Occasion

The versatility of Chicken Parmesan Subs makes them suitable for a variety of occasions:

Weeknight Dinner: Quick to assemble and bake, this sandwich is a satisfying and flavorful meal for busy evenings.
Casual Entertaining: Serve these subs at a game-day party or backyard gathering for a crowd-pleasing option.
Lunch on the Go: Prepare the chicken and marinara sauce in advance for an easy, portable lunch option.
Family-Friendly Meal: Kids and adults alike will love the familiar flavors and hearty nature of this dish.

The sandwich format also makes it easy to customize, allowing you to cater to different preferences and dietary needs.

Customizing Your Chicken Parmesan Sub

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Add Vegetables: Include sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or caramelized onions for extra flavor and texture.
Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with provolone, Havarti, or even a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist.
Use a Spicy Marinara: Kick up the heat with a spicy marinara sauce or add a pinch of chili flakes to the chicken breading.
Make It Lighter: Swap the breaded chicken for grilled chicken breasts and use whole-grain rolls for a healthier version.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and sub rolls to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Pairing Suggestions for the Perfect Meal

While the Chicken Parmesan Sub is a hearty meal on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the dining experience:

Salads: Serve with a crisp Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Soups: Pair with tomato basil soup or minestrone for a cozy, comforting meal.
Fries or Chips: Add a side of garlic-parmesan fries or classic kettle chips for a satisfying crunch.
Beverages: A cold beer, sparkling water with lemon, or a classic Italian soda pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of the sandwich.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan Subs

Pound the Chicken Evenly: Ensure the chicken breasts are an even thickness to cook uniformly.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan, high-quality marinara, and fresh herbs make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Don’t Overload the Sub: While it’s tempting to pile on toppings, overloading the sandwich can make it difficult to eat and compromise the texture.
Bake Until Bubbly: Keep an eye on the subs while baking and remove them as soon as the cheese is melted and golden-brown.
Serve Immediately: These subs are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when the bread is warm, the chicken is crispy, and the cheese is gooey.

Storing and Reheating

Chicken Parmesan Subs are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored and reheated:

Storage: Wrap leftover subs in foil and refrigerate for up to two days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to restore crispiness and melt the cheese.
Freezing: Freeze breaded chicken breasts separately for up to three months. Assemble the subs fresh when ready to serve.

Conclusion

The Chicken Parmesan Sub is a delightful combination of comfort food and convenience, bringing the flavors of a beloved classic to a handheld sandwich. With its crispy chicken, tangy marinara, and gooey cheese nestled in a toasted roll, it’s a meal that satisfies on every level.

Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner, a weekend indulgence, or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this recipe is versatile, flavorful, and easy to prepare. With customizable options and endless pairing possibilities, the Chicken Parmesan Sub is destined to become a favorite in your home. Try it today and enjoy the ultimate combination of Italian-inspired flavors and sandwich perfection!

Pin2

2 Shares