If you love a hearty sandwich packed with crispy chicken, bubbling cheese, and a rich tomato sauce, then the Chicken Parmesan Subs Recipe is your new go-to comfort food. Imagine biting into a warm, toasted sub roll filled with perfectly breaded chicken cutlets, smothered in savory marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. This dish brings all the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan in a fun, easy-to-eat sub form that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual weekend meals with friends. Once you try this recipe, it might just become your favorite sandwich to crave and share.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, essential ingredients come together in this recipe to create layers of flavor and texture that are absolutely irresistible. Each element plays a role in building the perfect balance of crispy, saucy, and cheesy goodness that makes this dish shine.
- Chicken breasts: Thin cutlets ensure even cooking and a crispy coating.
 - Flour: Helps the egg and breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken for a crunchy crust.
 - Egg: Acts as the perfect binder to hold the breading in place.
 - Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: Adds flavor and crunch, highlighting classic Italian herbs.
 - Marinara sauce: Warmed to enhance its rich, tangy tomato flavor that complements the chicken.
 - Mozzarella or provolone cheese: Melts beautifully to create that gooey, cheesy topping everyone loves.
 - Sub rolls or hoagie buns: Toasted lightly for a sturdy, flavorful base.
 - Olive oil: For frying the chicken to golden perfection.
 - Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that boost all the other flavors.
 - Fresh basil (optional): Adds a fresh, aromatic finish as a garnish.
 
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Subs Recipe
Step 1: Season and Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing your boneless skinless chicken breasts into thin cutlets. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning forms the base layer of flavor, ensuring every bite is savory and well-balanced.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken Cutlets
Set up an assembly line with bowls of flour, beaten egg, and Italian seasoned breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken cutlet first in flour, shaking off any excess, then dip into the egg, and finally coat it fully with breadcrumbs. This three-step breading process guarantees a crispy, golden crust after cooking.
Step 3: Cook until Crispy
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until the crust is crunchy and the chicken is cooked through. This step brings out that irresistible golden brown texture that defines this subs recipe.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
Transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet, spoon warm marinara sauce generously over each piece, and layer with slices of mozzarella or provolone cheese. Broil the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles deliciously.
Step 5: Assemble the Subs
Lightly toast your sub rolls or hoagie buns to add a slight crunch and prevent sogginess. Then nestle each cheesy, saucy chicken cutlet inside the warmed roll for an unforgettable sandwich experience.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Subs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a vibrant, herbal note that brightens the rich flavors. If you want to get a little fancy, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can bring extra depth and a hint of spice.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs perfectly with classic sides like garlic fries, a crisp Caesar salad, or even simple steamed vegetables. A side of pickles or a refreshing coleslaw can also provide a crunchy contrast to the warm, cheesy subs.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing display, cut the subs into smaller sliders on a large platter with toothpicks. Or jazz things up by adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers inside the subs. Toast garlic breadcrumbs on top of the melted cheese for a delightful crunch and extra burst of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Chicken Parmesan Subs, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the chicken juicy and the bread from drying out too much.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but best done with the chicken cutlets alone before assembling the sub. Bread and cook the chicken, then freeze in a single layer with parchment paper between each cutlet. When ready to use, thaw completely and reheat with sauce and cheese freshly added.
Reheating
To reheat without losing that crispy texture, place the subs on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through and the cheese is melty again, usually about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can be used if you prefer a slightly richer flavor. Just make sure to pound them thin for even cooking and breading.
Is it necessary to bread the chicken?
Breading is key to getting that signature crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the melted cheese and sauce, so I highly recommend not skipping this step.
What type of cheese works best?
Mozzarella is classic for its meltiness and mild flavor, but provolone is a great alternative if you want a slightly sharper taste. Both give that perfect gooey finish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap out regular breadcrumbs and sub rolls for gluten-free versions. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How can I make the subs extra saucy?
You can add more warm marinara inside the sub rolls before adding the chicken, or drizzle extra sauce over the top after assembling for a luscious, saucy bite every time.
Final Thoughts
Making the Chicken Parmesan Subs Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience that combines crispy, cheesy, and saucy elements into one delicious sandwich. It’s perfect for any occasion when you want to impress yourself or your loved ones with a comforting meal that’s easy to pull together. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to be one you come back to again and again. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying subs out there!
Print
Chicken Parmesan Subs Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
 - Yield: 2–4 subs depending on size
 
Description
Crispy breaded chicken, melty mozzarella, and rich marinara sauce tucked inside a warm toasted sub roll — these Chicken Parmesan Subs are a comforting and satisfying sandwich everyone will love!
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into 4 thin cutlets
 - ½ cup flour
 - 1 egg, beaten
 - ¾ cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
 - Salt & black pepper (to taste)
 
Sauce and Cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
 - 4 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese
 
Bread and Garnish
- 2 sub rolls or hoagie buns
 - 2 tbsp olive oil
 - Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
 
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken cutlets on both sides with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
 - Dredge the chicken: Coat each chicken cutlet first in flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat evenly with Italian seasoned breadcrumbs. This breading ensures a crispy texture after cooking.
 - Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the breaded chicken cutlets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until they turn golden brown, crispy, and are cooked through.
 - Prepare for broiling: Transfer the cooked chicken pieces onto a baking sheet. Spoon warmed marinara sauce over each piece, then top with slices of mozzarella or provolone cheese.
 - Broil the chicken: Place the baking sheet under the broiler and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts completely and bubbles, becoming slightly golden.
 - Toast the rolls and assemble: Lightly toast the sub rolls or hoagie buns to add a slight crunch and warmth. Add the hot chicken pieces topped with cheese and sauce into the toasted buns.
 - Garnish and serve: Optionally, add fresh basil leaves for a burst of aromatic flavor. Serve the Chicken Parmesan Subs warm for the best eating experience.
 
Notes
- Air Fryer option: Cook the breaded chicken cutlets at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through to achieve even crispiness.
 - Add crunch: After melting the cheese, sprinkle toasted garlic breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunchy texture.
 - Make them saucy: Add extra warmed marinara sauce inside the sub rolls before assembling for a more flavorful, saucy sandwich.
 - Gluten-free: Substitute Italian breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free rolls to make the recipe suitable for gluten-intolerant individuals.
 
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
 - Cook Time: 15 minutes
 - Category: Dinner, Sandwiches, Comfort Food
 - Method: Stovetop + Broiling
 - Cuisine: Italian-American
 
