Cheesy Chicken Garlic Sandwich (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half
02 - 1 teaspoon salt
03 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
06 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Garlic Bread

08 - 4 slices thick-cut Italian or French bread
09 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
10 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
11 - 1 teaspoon dried parsley
12 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
13 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

→ Sandwich Filling

14 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
15 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or provolone cheese
16 - 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
17 - 1/4 cup marinara sauce (optional)
18 - 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits (optional)
19 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley

# Instructions:

01 - 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.
02 - 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.
03 - 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.
04 - Return the assembled sandwiches to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.
05 - Slice in half and serve warm with extra marinara or ranch for dipping!

# Notes:

01 - Bread options: Use ciabatta, sourdough, or Texas toast for a sturdier sandwich.
02 - Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey.
03 - Extra crunch: Add a layer of crispy fried onions inside the sandwich.