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Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes

Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes - featured image

Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes combine all the classic flavors of chicken parm—crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara, and gooey cheese—packed into a hearty, messy sandwich perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This easy 30-minute dinner is a family favorite and guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 lb), sliced into cutlets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • Oil for frying (canola, vegetable, or avocado oil)
  • 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup extra Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)
  • 46 sandwich buns (brioche, Kaiser, or hamburger buns)
  • 2 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
  • Sliced provolone cheese (optional)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice chicken breasts horizontally to create 4 cutlets. Pat dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Coat each chicken cutlet in flour (shake off excess), dip in beaten eggs, then press into breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated. Double-dip for extra crunch if desired.
  4. Heat 1/2 inch oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (about 350°F). Fry chicken cutlets 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
  5. Slice sandwich buns. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and toast buns cut side down until golden (1-2 minutes). Optionally, toast under broiler for 1 minute.
  6. Heat marinara sauce in a small saucepan until simmering. Stir occasionally.
  7. Assemble sandwiches: Place crispy chicken cutlet on toasted bun, spoon over marinara sauce, sprinkle with extra Parmesan, and top with shredded mozzarella. For ultra-melty cheese, broil assembled sandwiches for 1-2 minutes until cheese bubbles.
  8. Garnish with fresh basil, crushed red pepper flakes, or extra cheese as desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For gluten-free, use GF flour and panko. For dairy-free, swap in vegan cheese. Chill breaded chicken for 10 minutes before frying to help coating stick. Double-dip for extra crunch. Toast buns for sturdier sandwiches. Assemble just before serving for best texture. Leftover chicken cutlets keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in oven for crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan, sloppy joes, crispy chicken, easy dinner, Italian sandwich, weeknight meal, comfort food, family recipe, 30-minute meal