Description
This Cheesy Chicken Garlic Bread Sandwich combines crispy, buttery garlic bread with juicy, seasoned chicken and loads of gooey melted cheese. It’s a next-level sandwich that’s perfect for a hearty lunch, dinner, or game-day treat!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half (to make 4 thin pieces)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Garlic Bread:
- 4 slices thick-cut Italian or French bread (or sub rolls)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for toasting)
For the Sandwich Filling:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce (optional, for a pizza-style twist)
- 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika.
- Rub the seasoning mixture onto both sides of the chicken.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).
- Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Make the Garlic Bread:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and garlic powder.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture onto one side of each bread slice.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the buttered side of the bread.
- Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, until golden and crispy.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
- Place sliced chicken on one slice of the garlic bread.
- Add shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken.
- (Optional) Add a spoonful of marinara sauce and crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.
- Place another slice of garlic bread on top to form a sandwich.
4. Melt the Cheese:
- Return the assembled sandwiches to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
- Slice in half and serve warm with extra marinara or ranch for dipping!
Notes
- Bread Options: Use ciabatta, sourdough, or Texas toast for a sturdier sandwich.
- Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey.
- Extra Crunch: Add a layer of crispy fried onions inside the sandwich.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can store in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days and reheat in a toaster oven.