If you’re a fan of hearty sandwiches that combine crispy, tender chicken with melty cheese and rich marinara, then you’re going to absolutely adore this Chicken Parmesan Subs Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of textures and flavors that comes together in a warm hoagie bun, creating an irresistible meal that feels like a comforting Italian classic reinvented just for your sandwich cravings. Every bite offers a satisfying crunch, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese, making it an unbeatable choice for lunch, dinner, or even a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together simply but are essential for nailing the perfect Chicken Parmesan Subs Recipe. Each one adds a specific note—whether it’s the crispy crust, savory sauce, or melty cheese—that makes every sandwich memorable.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved lengthwise): Provides tender, juicy chicken cutlets perfect for sandwich filling.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Creates a light coating to help the breading stick and develop crispness.
- 2 large eggs (beaten): Acts as a binder to hold the breading mixture firmly on the chicken.
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs: Adds flavorful crunch that’s full of herbs and texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Blends into the breadcrumbs to give an authentic cheesy flavor boost.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the savory elements in the breading and chicken.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild kick that balances the cheese and sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the chicken crust with subtle, aromatic depth.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Perfect for frying the chicken to golden perfection with a rich flavor.
- 1 cup marinara sauce (warmed): Brings a vibrant, slightly tangy tomato base that complements the cheese and chicken beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into ooey-gooey goodness that every chicken parmesan dish deserves.
- 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns: Soft but sturdy enough to hold all the delicious fillings without falling apart.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness as an optional finishing touch.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Subs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Pound the Chicken
Begin by slicing your chicken breasts in half lengthwise to get thin cutlets, then gently pound them to an even thickness. This ensures quick and even cooking, resulting in juicy chicken that isn’t dry or tough once breaded and cooked.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Set three shallow bowls side by side—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last one with a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This classic three-step breading method is the secret to achieving that signature crispy coating every Chicken Parmesan Subs Recipe needs.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken Cutlets
Dredge each piece of chicken first in the flour, making sure it’s lightly coated. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, which helps the breadcrumb mix stick perfectly. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture, coating it thoroughly so each cutlet has an even, golden crust after frying.
Step 4: Pan-Fry the Chicken
Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add your breaded chicken cutlets in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until each piece is beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil and keep the crust crisp.
Step 5: Assemble the Subs
Slice your sub rolls lengthwise and place one cooked chicken cutlet in each. Top generously with warm marinara sauce and a hearty amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. The layers of sauce and cheese bring everything together in flavor and texture.
Step 6: Bake Until Melty and Bubbling
Place the assembled subs on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This step melts the cheese perfectly and warms the sandwich through, creating that irresistible bubbly, golden top we all crave in a Chicken Parmesan Subs Recipe.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Subs Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top just before serving. This adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh herbal aroma that balances the richness of the chicken and cheese. If you like a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes introduces a delightful spice kick.
Side Dishes
Serve your subs alongside a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or some oven-baked fries for a classic pairing. Garlic-roasted vegetables or a light pasta salad make wonderful complements that round out the meal without overpowering the star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the subs into smaller slider-sized portions for a party appetizer that guests can grab easily. You can also drizzle a bit of aged balsamic glaze or even layer sautéed mushrooms on top for a gourmet twist. Wrapping the subs in parchment paper adds a rustic charm when serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got leftover Chicken Parmesan Subs, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days and remain delicious when reheated properly.
Freezing
You can freeze these subs for up to 1 month. Wrap each sandwich carefully to prevent freezer burn, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the sandwich and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy or the chicken rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked or leftover chicken can save time. Just make sure it’s sliced thinly and heat it thoroughly before assembling your subs. You might want to toast the rolls beforehand to keep the sandwich from becoming soggy.
What’s a good substitute for Italian-style breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have Italian-style breadcrumbs, you can use plain breadcrumbs mixed with dried Italian seasoning or herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley. Panko breadcrumbs work well too and add extra crunch.
Can these subs be made gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free bread crumbs and sub rolls, and substitute regular flour for a gluten-free variety. There are plenty of great gluten-free options that won’t sacrifice flavor.
Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of frying it?
You can bake the breaded chicken at 425°F for about 20 minutes on a greased baking sheet, flipping halfway. This is a lighter alternative, though frying gives that signature crispiness that many love in Chicken Parmesan Subs Recipe.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or sprinkle some on top of the marinara sauce before the final bake. A drizzle of spicy pepper-infused oil after baking also adds a nice heat layer without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Parmesan Subs Recipe is truly one of those meals that brings joy with every bite. It’s approachable yet indulgent, perfect for when you want to treat yourself or impress friends with something homemade and comforting. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite sandwich to make over and over again!
Print
Chicken Parmesan Subs Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Delicious and hearty Chicken Parmesan Subs featuring crispy breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, all nestled inside toasted sub rolls. This classic Italian-American sandwich is perfect for a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved lengthwise)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Assembly
- 1 cup marinara sauce (warmed)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the assembled subs.
- Prepare Chicken Cutlets: Pound the chicken breasts lightly to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls: place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and combine Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in the third bowl.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken piece first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the breaded chicken pieces in batches for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer cooked chicken onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Assemble Subs: Slice the sub rolls, place one piece of cooked chicken inside each roll, then spoon warm marinara sauce over the chicken, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake Subs: Arrange the assembled subs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve the subs warm.
Notes
- You can use store-bought chicken tenders or frozen breaded cutlets to save time.
- For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes or drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
