This crispy, cheesy Trader Joes Chicken Parm Sandwich is made with Breaded Chicken Tenderloins, Roasted Garlic Marinara, and Ciabatta Rolls, and ready in just 20 minutes. Watching the mozzarella bubble and goldenize under the broiler creates the ultimate comfort food experience right in your own kitchen. I love how this simple hack tastes just like my favorite Italian deli order but costs a fraction of the price.
Better Than Takeaway
I used to drive twenty minutes to a local Italian spot for a sub like this, but the bread often got soggy during the trip home. Making this version in your own kitchen guarantees that the chicken stays crunchy and the bread remains perfectly toasted until the very first bite.
I learned that the secret lies in toasting the bread separately with garlic butter before assembling. My first attempt resulted in a chewy roll, but giving the ciabatta a head start in the oven creates a sturdy base that holds up to the rich tomato sauce.
Jump to RecipeTrader Joes Chicken Parm Sandwich Ingredients
- 2 Trader Joe’s Ciabatta Rolls, sliced in half
- 4 pieces Trader Joe’s Breaded Chicken Tenderloins (frozen)
- 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Roasted Garlic Marinara Sauce
- 2 slices Provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup Shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dried parsley (optional)
How To Make Trader Joes Chicken Parm Sandwich
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the frozen chicken tenderloins for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Prep the Buns: While the chicken cooks, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and brush it onto the cut sides of the ciabatta rolls.
- Toast the Bread: Place the rolls cut-side up on a baking sheet and broil on high for 1-2 minutes until the edges are lightly browned.
- Assemble the Base: Remove rolls from the oven and spread a spoonful of marinara sauce on the bottom half of each roll, then top with two cooked chicken tenders.
- Add Cheese and Broil: Layer a slice of provolone and a sprinkle of mozzarella over the chicken, then return to the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Final Touch: Top with the remaining sauce, parmesan cheese, and the top bun, then serve immediately.
Recipe Tips
- Watch the broiler: Broilers vary significantly in heat intensity, so keep a close eye on your sandwich to prevent the garlic bread from burning.
- Sauce placement: Put a little sauce on the bread, but put the majority on top of the chicken or serve on the side for dipping to maintain crunch.
- Cheese blend: Using both provolone and mozzarella gives you the perfect balance of sharp flavor and that classic stretchy cheese pull.
What To Serve With Chicken Parm Sandwich
Serve this hearty sandwich with a crisp Caesar salad to cut through the richness of the fried chicken and cheese. A side of garlic parmesan fries or simple roasted broccoli also pairs beautifully for a complete diner-style meal.
How To Store
These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh and do not store well once assembled due to the sauce soaking into the bread. If you have leftovers, store the cooked chicken and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 3 days and assemble fresh when ready to eat.
FAQs
Can I make this in a regular oven?
Yes, bake the chicken at 425°F for 20-25 minutes according to the package instructions. You can then proceed with the broiling steps as written using the oven rack.
Which Trader Joe’s sauce is best?
The Roasted Garlic Marinara is excellent for this recipe because it adds extra depth without needing more ingredients. The Tomato Basil Marinara is a great runner-up if you prefer a fresher herbal taste.
Can I use different bread?
Absolutely, Trader Joe’s Garlic Naan or their French Baguette works well if you don’t have Ciabatta. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the heavy fillings.
Nutrition
- Calories: 660
- Total Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 58g
- Protein: 35g
Trader Joes Chicken Parm Sandwich
2
servings5
minutes15
minutes20
minutesCrispy, cheesy Trader Joes Chicken Parm Sandwich features golden Breaded Chicken Tenderloins and rich marinara on garlic-buttered ciabatta, ready in just 20 minutes for a quick dinner. This easy hack combines melted mozzarella and toasted bread for the perfect Italian-American comfort food.
Ingredients
2 Trader Joe’s Ciabatta Rolls, sliced in half
4 pieces Trader Joe’s Breaded Chicken Tenderloins (frozen)
1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Roasted Garlic Marinara Sauce
2 slices Provolone cheese
1/2 cup Shredded Mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
1 tablespoon Grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Dried parsley (optional)
Directions
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the frozen chicken tenderloins for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Prep the Buns: While the chicken cooks, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and brush it onto the cut sides of the ciabatta rolls.
- Toast the Bread: Place the rolls cut-side up on a baking sheet and broil on high for 1-2 minutes until the edges are lightly browned.
- Assemble the Base: Remove rolls from the oven and spread a spoonful of marinara sauce on the bottom half of each roll, then top with two cooked chicken tenders.
- Add Cheese and Broil: Layer a slice of provolone and a sprinkle of mozzarella over the chicken, then return to the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Final Touch: Top with the remaining sauce, parmesan cheese, and the top bun, then serve immediately.
