Name: Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 cups Marinara sauce; 1 pound Boneless skinless chicken breasts; ½ teaspoon Salt; ¼ teaspoon Ground black pepper; ½ cup All-purpose flour; 2 large Eggs; 2 tablespoons Water; 1 ½ cups Italian breadcrumbs; 1 cup Parmesan cheese (divided use); 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese

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There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a classic Italian dish, and the Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana is a shining star in that realm. I remember the first time I tasted this dish; I was nestled in a cozy booth at Olive Garden, savoring every bite of the tender, breaded chicken topped with rich marinara and gooey cheese. The flavors danced on my palate, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. Fast forward to today, and here I am, eager to share my take on this beloved recipe. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the memories we create around the table. Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet dinner for two, this dish brings a slice of Italian comfort into your home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
620 kcal

Protein:
45 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
30 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Skillet, Oven, Frying Pan, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife

What Makes This Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana Special

1. Restaurant-Quality Flavor

When you make Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana at home, you’re not just following a recipe; you’re creating a dish that rivals the restaurant version. The secret lies in using fresh ingredients and taking the time to prepare the chicken properly. Each cutlet is pounded to perfection, ensuring an even cook and a delightful texture.

2. Customizable to Your Taste

One of the joys of making this dish yourself is the ability to customize it. Love extra cheese? Go ahead and pile on the mozzarella! Prefer a spicier kick? Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinara. This dish can easily adapt to suit your family’s preferences, making every meal a unique experience.

3. A Delicious Way to Bond

Preparing Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana can be a fun, bonding experience with family or friends. Gather everyone in the kitchen, divvy up the tasks, and enjoy the laughter and conversation as you cook together. It’s not just about the final dish; it’s about the memories made along the way.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering, Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana fits the bill. Its hearty nature and comforting flavors make it a hit with guests and family alike. You’ll find it’s a crowd-pleaser that can elevate any meal and make your table feel special.

5. Freezer-Friendly

If you find yourself with leftovers or want to prepare ahead, this dish freezes beautifully. Just ensure your chicken is well-wrapped, and you can enjoy the flavors of Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana any time, even on a busy night when you don’t have the energy to cook.

Ingredients to Make Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana

For this recipe, we’re diving into a selection of ingredients that work harmoniously to create the iconic flavors we love. The star of the show is, of course, the chicken, but it’s complemented by a rich marinara sauce, a crispy coating, and a melty cheese top. Together, they create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress.

3 cups marinara sauce: This rich and flavorful sauce is a must-have for an authentic taste.
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: The base of our dish, tender and delicious.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the chicken.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick.
½ cup all-purpose flour: For that crispy coating.
2 large eggs: Helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
2 tablespoons water: To mix with the eggs.
1 ½ cups Italian breadcrumbs: Provides crunch and flavor.
1 cup Parmesan cheese (divided use): Adds a savory depth to the dish.
Oil for frying: Essential for achieving that golden-brown crust.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top.
Chopped fresh parsley: A fresh garnish to finish.

The Method for Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana

Making Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana is a delightful process that will fill your kitchen with amazing aromas. Follow these steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s satisfying and impressive. Let’s get started!

Begin by heating the marinara sauce in a pot over low heat. This will allow the flavors to meld together as you prepare the chicken. Stir occasionally, so it doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Next, place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to gently pound them into cutlets about ¼ inch thick. If your breasts are thick, you might want to slice them in half horizontally before pounding. This ensures even cooking.
Season both sides of the chicken with salt and ground black pepper. This simple seasoning is key to enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
Preheat your oven to 350°F. This temperature is perfect for melting the cheese later.
Now it’s time to prepare a dredging station. You’ll need three shallow bowls or pie plates. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second, combine the eggs and water, beating them together until uniform. In the third bowl, mix the Italian breadcrumbs with ¾ cup of Parmesan cheese until well combined. This station will help coat the chicken beautifully.
Start by dredging a chicken cutlet in the flour, shaking off the excess. Then dip it into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides and shake off any extra. Finally, dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s well coated. Place the breaded cutlet onto a wire rack. Repeat this process for all cutlets.
In a large skillet, pour enough oil to cover the bottom by ½ inch. Heat the oil to 350°F for frying. It’s important to get the oil hot enough so that the chicken cooks properly and the coating becomes golden brown.
Carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets in the hot oil, cooking them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until the breading is golden brown. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Transfer the cooked chicken to a baking dish. Top each cutlet with the warmed marinara sauce and then sprinkle with the shredded mozzarella cheese. This is where the magic happens as the cheese melts into a gooey, delicious topping.
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted. Keep an eye on it to ensure the cheese does not burn.
Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and the remaining Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana!

Things Worth Knowing

For best results: It’s crucial to use chicken breasts that are similar in size and thickness to ensure even cooking.
Monitor oil temperature: When frying, maintain the oil temperature between 325°F and 350°F. This prevents burning the coating or soaking too much oil.
Cheese melting: For optimal melting, ensure the mozzarella cheese is evenly distributed over the chicken.
Resting: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying to help retain moisture.

Helpful Hints

Preparing Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana can come with its own set of challenges. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cooking experience is smooth and successful.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and marinara sauce separately. Thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Pairing: Serve this dish with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Serving size: One cutlet is typically a serving, but feel free to adjust based on appetite.
Cooking oil: Use oils with high smoke points like canola or vegetable oil for frying to prevent burning.

Best Served With

Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana is versatile and pairs beautifully with many sides and occasions. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

Classic Pasta: Serve with spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in olive oil or garlic butter.
Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread complements the dish perfectly.
Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.
Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for family dinners, reunions, or potlucks.
Weeknight Dinner: Quick enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for guests.
Festive Occasions: Great for celebrations or holiday dinners.

FAQ

The secret to a perfect Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana lies in the preparation and ingredients. First, make sure to pound the chicken cutlets evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. Using fresh, high-quality marinara and a mixture of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese creates a rich flavor. Additionally, frying the chicken at the right oil temperature ensures a crispy, golden crust without burning. Lastly, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully in the oven is essential.

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken cutlets in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just make sure to fry them just before you plan to serve. If you have leftovers, these can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. Just reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

The beauty of Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana is its versatility! It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Classic options include a simple spaghetti tossed in olive oil or garlic butter, a green salad with a light vinaigrette, or warm garlic bread. These sides complement the richness of the chicken and sauce, creating a satisfying meal.

While classic Chicken Parmigiana typically uses mozzarella and Parmesan, feel free to experiment! You can add provolone for a different flavor or even a bit of gouda for a smoky touch. Just ensure that any cheese you use melts well for that gooey texture we all love. The key is to balance flavors and maintain that creamy, cheesy experience.

Conclusion

The Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana is truly a dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. With its crispy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a delightful meal that everyone in the family will enjoy. I encourage you to try making this recipe at home; it’s not only rewarding but also a fantastic way to share delicious moments with your loved ones. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this Italian classic tonight!