Looking for a healthier twist on the classic Italian favorite? This grilled chicken parmesan recipe delivers all the cheesy, savory goodness you love about traditional chicken parm, but with a lighter, smoky twist that makes it perfect for summer dining. By taking this dish to the grill, we're cutting down on oil while adding an incredible layer of flavor that you just can't get from the oven.
Why You'll Love This Grilled Chicken Parmesan
This modern take on chicken parmesan transforms the traditionally heavy, fried dish into a lighter meal that doesn't sacrifice any of the flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend entertaining, this recipe brings together the best of Italian-American cuisine with outdoor grilling. The result is juicy chicken crowned with melted mozzarella, rich marinara sauce, and fresh basil – all with a subtle smokiness that makes it irresistible.
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Ingredients
the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
the Topping:
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This ensures even cooking and tender meat.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with the seasoned oil mixture and let them marinate at room temperature for 15-20 minutes while you preheat the grill.
Preheating and Preparing the Grill
- Clean and oil your grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F).
- Create a two-zone grilling setup with one side at direct heat and the other at indirect heat.
Grilling the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts on the direct heat side of the grill.
- Grill for 5-6 minutes on the first side, until nice grill marks appear.
- Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the second side.
- Move the chicken to the indirect heat side of the grill.
Adding the Toppings
- Top each chicken breast with about ⅓ cup marinara sauce.
- Layer 2-3 slices of fresh mozzarella on top of the sauce.
- Sprinkle each piece with 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Close the grill lid and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Equipment For Grilled Chicken Parmesan
- Gas or charcoal grill
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Instant-read thermometer
- Grill tongs
- Basting brush
- Aluminum foil (optional, for tenting)
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover grilled chicken parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, though the chicken won't be quite as crispy.
Recipe Variations
- Pesto Twist: Replace marinara sauce with fresh basil pesto for a different flavor profile
- Low-Carb Version: Use sugar-free marinara sauce and add extra Parmesan instead of mozzarella
- Spicy Option: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade and top with spicy marinara
- Mediterranean Style: Top with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach before adding the cheese
Serving Suggestions
Serve your grilled chicken parmesan over:
- Al dente spaghetti or zucchini noodles
- Fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Grilled vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers
- Crusty Italian bread to soak up the sauce
Top Tip
Pound the chicken to an even thickness for consistent cooking
Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling
Use fresh mozzarella for the best melting quality
Don't move the chicken around while it's grilling – this ensures proper grill marks
Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness (165°F internal temperature)
FAQ
Chicken Parmesan and chicken parmigiana are actually the same dish! "Chicken Parmesan" is simply the American name for the Italian-American dish "Chicken Parmigiana." Both refer to breaded chicken cutlets topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese. The name variation comes from regional differences and American adaptation of Italian cuisine.
Chicken piccata and chicken Parmesan are two distinct Italian-American dishes. Chicken Parmesan features breaded chicken topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese, while chicken piccata is made with thin chicken cutlets in a light lemon-butter-caper sauce without breading or cheese. They have completely different flavor profiles and cooking methods.
Chicken Parmesan gets its name from the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese traditionally used in the dish, not because it's the main cheese. While mozzarella provides the melty top layer, Parmesan cheese is crucial for flavor and is usually mixed into the breading or sprinkled on top. Our grilled version uses both cheeses for authentic taste.
Chicken Parmesan gets its name from the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese traditionally used in the dish, not because it's the main cheese. While mozzarella provides the melty top layer, Parmesan cheese is crucial for flavor and is usually mixed into the breading or sprinkled on top. Our grilled version uses both cheeses for authentic taste.
HOW DID YOUR GRILLED CHICKEN PARMESAN TURN OUT?
How did your Grilled Chicken Parmesan turn out? Ready to savor something new? This recipe is sure to impress with its perfect balance of smoky grilled flavors, melty cheese, and savory marinara sauce. If you're a fan of Italian-American classics with a modern twist, be sure to try our Salisbury Steak Recipe next – another easy-to-make yet delicious treat!
Did you make this Grilled Chicken Parmesan? We'd love to hear about your experience! Leave a star rating and share your thoughts in the comments.
Did you try any creative twists or use any unique ingredients? Your feedback not only helps others but also contributes to our growing community of home cooks. Don't forget to share a photo of your culinary creation!
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Easy Grilled Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Equipment
- Gas or charcoal grill
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Instant-read thermometer
- Grill tongs
- Basting Brush
- Aluminum foil (optional, for tenting)
Ingredients
the Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
the Topping:
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella sliced
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
Prepare Chicken:
- Pound chicken to ½ inch thickness
- Mix olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
- Brush chicken with seasoning mixture
- Let marinate 15-20 minutes
Prep Grill:
- Clean and oil grates
- Preheat to medium-high (375-400°F)
- Create two-zone heating setup
Grill Chicken:
- Grill 5-6 minutes on first side
- Flip and cook 4-5 minutes on second side
- Move to indirect heat
Add Toppings:
- Top each piece with ⅓ cup marinara
- Add mozzarella slices
- Sprinkle with Parmesan
- Close lid and cook 3-4 minutes until cheese melts
Notes
- Internal temperature should reach 165°F
- Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving
- Garnish with fresh basil and optional red pepper flakes
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