Olive Garden Chicken Parmesan Recipe: Breaded and Fried to Perfection

Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with our Olive Garden-inspired Chicken Parmesan Recipe.

This beloved dish is a staple of Italian-American cuisine, and for good reason – the combination of crispy breading, juicy chicken, and melted mozzarella cheese is simply irresistible.

With our easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate the magic of Olive Garden in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Olive Garden Chicken Parmesan Recipe: A Quick Overview

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil for frying

Preparation:

• Prepare the breading station: In one shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another dish, beat eggs. In a third dish, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
• Prepare the chicken: Pound chicken breasts to 1/4 inch thickness.
• Bread the chicken: Dip each chicken breast in flour mixture, then eggs, then breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
• Fry the chicken: Heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry breaded chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
• Assemble and bake: Place fried chicken breasts on a baking dish, spoon marinara sauce over each breast, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips and Variations:

• Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh breadcrumbs and real Parmesan cheese, for the best flavor.
• Add some Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
• Serve with pasta, garlic bread, or a green salad for a complete meal.
• Try using different types of cheese, such as provolone or ricotta, for a unique twist.

Authentic Italian Flavor at Home: What You’ll Need

Pantry Staples:

• Olive oil: A good-quality extra-virgin olive oil is the backbone of Italian cooking. Use it for sautéing, roasting, and making dressings.
• Canned tomatoes: San Marzano tomatoes are the gold standard for Italian cooking. Look for the “DOP” certification to ensure authenticity.
• Garlic: Fresh or dried, garlic is a fundamental flavor component in Italian cuisine.
• Onions: Whether sautéed, caramelized, or roasted, onions add depth to Italian dishes.
• Herbs: Fresh or dried, basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary are essential herbs in Italian cooking.
• Spices: Bay leaves, black pepper, and red pepper flakes are staples in Italian cuisine.
• Rice, pasta, and polenta: These carbohydrates are the foundation of many Italian meals.
• Canned beans: Cannellini, kidney, or chickpeas are used in various Italian recipes.
• Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato paste adds intense flavor to sauces and braises.
• Balsamic vinegar: A good-quality balsamic vinegar is essential for dressings and marinades.
• Wine: Red, white, or sparkling, wine is often used in Italian cooking for added flavor.

Dairy and Meat:

• Parmigiano-Reggiano: The king of Italian cheeses, Parmigiano-Reggiano is perfect for grating or shaving.
• Mozzarella: Fresh or buffalo, mozzarella is essential for pizzas, caprese salads, and lasagnas.
• Prosciutto and pancetta: Cured meats add salty, savory flavor to Italian dishes.
• Italian sausage: Sweet or hot, Italian sausage is used in pasta sauces, soups, and stews.
• Chicken and beef: These proteins are staples in Italian cooking, often used in pasta sauces, soups, and braises.

Pantry Tools:

• Large skillet or sauté pan: A sturdy, heat-distributing pan is essential for Italian cooking.
• Dutch oven or heavy pot: A heavy pot is perfect for slow-cooked braises, stews, and sauces.
• Immersion blender or food processor: These tools are necessary for blending soups, sauces, and dips.
• Stand mixer or hand mixer: A mixer is helpful for whipping cream, beating eggs, and mixing dough.
• Wooden spoons and spatulas: These tools are essential for stirring, flipping, and serving Italian dishes.

Optional but Nice to Have:

• Pasta machine: For making fresh pasta from scratch.
• Pizza stone or baking steel: For achieving a crispy crust on homemade pizzas.
• Ice cream maker: For creating authentic Italian gelato and ice cream.
• Coffee maker or espresso machine: For brewing traditional Italian coffee drinks.

The Secret to Crunchy Breading: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Breading Station

• Station 1: Flour: In a shallow dish, mix together:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Station 2: Eggs: In a separate dish, beat:
  • 2 eggs
• Station 3: Breadcrumbs: In a third dish, mix together:
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step 2: Prepare the Food

• Pat dry the food: Remove excess moisture from the food using paper towels or a clean cloth. This helps the breading adhere better.
• Season the food: Sprinkle both sides of the food with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Dredge in Flour

• Coat the food: Place the food in the flour mixture and coat evenly, shaking off excess.
• Tap off excess: Gently tap the food against the side of the dish to remove excess flour.

Step 4: Dip in Eggs

• Coat the food: Place the floured food in the egg mixture and coat evenly, making sure to cover all surfaces.
• Let excess drip: Allow excess egg to drip back into the dish.

Step 5: Coat with Breadcrumbs

• Coat the food: Place the egg-coated food in the breadcrumb mixture and coat evenly, pressing gently to adhere.
• Tap off excess: Gently tap the food against the side of the dish to remove excess breadcrumbs.

Step 6: Fry or Bake

• Frying: Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded food until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
• Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded food on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

Tips for Achieving Crunchy Breading:

• Use the right breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs produce a lighter, crisper coating, while regular breadcrumbs yield a crunchier exterior.
• Don’t over-bread: Too much breading can lead to a heavy, greasy coating. Use the right amount for the best results.
• Chill the breaded food: Refrigerate the breaded food for at least 30 minutes to set the coating and help it adhere better.
• Use the right oil: Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado or peanut oil, for frying.
• Don’t overcrowd: Fry or bake in batches to prevent the breading from becoming soggy.

Marinara Magic: The Perfect Sauce for Chicken Parmesan

The Essential Ingredients:

• San Marzano tomatoes: These Italian tomatoes are the gold standard for marinara sauce. Look for the “DOP” certification to ensure authenticity.
• Fresh garlic: Mince 3-4 cloves of garlic to add depth and aroma to the sauce.
• Olive oil: Use a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil to add richness and body to the sauce.
• Salt: Use a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors and balance the acidity.
• Sugar: A small amount of sugar helps balance the acidity and adds a hint of sweetness.
• Red pepper flakes: Add a pinch of heat with red pepper flakes (optional).
• Fresh basil: Chop 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves to add a bright, herbaceous flavor.

The Magic Happens:

• Sauté the garlic: In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant and lightly golden.
• Add the tomatoes: Crush 2 cups of San Marzano tomatoes by hand or puree them in a blender. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
• Simmer and reduce: Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-30 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and reduced slightly.
• Add fresh basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
• Taste and adjust: Season the sauce with salt and sugar to taste.

Tips for the Perfect Marinara Sauce:

• Use high-quality ingredients: San Marzano tomatoes and fresh garlic make all the difference in the flavor and aroma of the sauce.
• Acidity balance: A pinch of sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, while a splash of red wine or lemon juice can add brightness and depth.
• Simmer slowly: A slow simmer helps to break down the tomatoes and develop the flavors.
• Don’t overcook: Stop cooking the sauce when it reaches your desired consistency. Overcooking can lead to a thick, paste-like sauce.
• Make ahead: Prepare the sauce up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

The Perfect Pairing:

• Chicken Parmesan: Serve the marinara sauce alongside crispy, juicy Chicken Parmesan for a match made in heaven.
• Pasta: Toss the marinara sauce with cooked pasta, such as spaghetti or ziti, for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Dipping sauce: Use the marinara sauce as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, fried mozzarella, or chicken tenders.

Breading, Frying, and Baking: The Olive Garden Way

Breading Station:

• Station 1: Flour: In a shallow dish, mix together:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Station 2: Eggs: In a separate dish, beat:
  • 2 eggs
• Station 3: Breadcrumbs: In a third dish, mix together:
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Frying:

• Heat the oil: Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Fry the chicken: Place the breaded chicken breasts in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Drain excess oil: Place the fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Baking:

• Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Assemble the dish: Place the fried chicken breasts on a baking dish, spoon marinara sauce over each breast, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Bake until golden: Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips and Variations:

• Use the right breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs produce a lighter, crisper coating, while regular breadcrumbs yield a crunchier exterior.
• Don’t over-bread: Too much breading can lead to a heavy, greasy coating. Use the right amount for the best results.
• Chill the breaded chicken: Refrigerate the breaded chicken for at least 30 minutes to set the coating and help it adhere better.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone or ricotta, for a unique flavor profile.
• Add some spice: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or dried oregano over the chicken for an extra kick.

Melting Mozzarella and Fresh Basil: The Finishing Touches

Melting Mozzarella:

• Shredded mozzarella: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the fried chicken breasts, making sure to cover the entire surface.
• Baking: Place the chicken in the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Broiling: For an extra-crispy top, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown.

Fresh Basil:

• Chopped fresh basil: Chop 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves and sprinkle over the melted mozzarella cheese.
• Fresh flavor: The bright, herbaceous flavor of fresh basil adds a pop of freshness to the dish.
• Garnish: Use additional fresh basil leaves as a garnish, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Mix and match cheeses: Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta, for a unique flavor profile.
• Add some spice: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the melted mozzarella for an extra kick.
• Fresh herbs: Try using other fresh herbs, such as parsley or oregano, for a different flavor profile.
• Basil alternatives: If fresh basil is not available, use dried basil or basil flakes as a substitute.

A Restaurant-Quality Meal in Under 30 Minutes

Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Prepare the breading station: In three separate dishes, prepare the flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
• Prepare the chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to 1/4 inch thickness.
• Prepare the sauce: Heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.

Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Fry the chicken: Fry the breaded chicken breasts in hot oil for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Drain excess oil: Place the fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
• Assemble the dish: Place the fried chicken breasts on a baking dish, spoon marinara sauce over each breast, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Finishing Touches: 5 minutes

• Melt the mozzarella: Place the dish in the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Garnish with basil: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves over the top of the dish.

Tips and Variations:

• Use pre-breaded chicken: If you’re short on time, use pre-breaded chicken breasts to save 5 minutes of prep time.
• Use a different sauce: Try using a different sauce, such as arrabbiata or pesto, for a unique flavor profile.
• Add some spice: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top of the dish for an extra kick.
• Make it a meal: Serve the Chicken Parmesan with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a green salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations: Make It Your Own Chicken Parmesan

Breading Variations:

• Panko breadcrumbs: Use Panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crisper coating.
• Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs: Add Italian seasoning to your breadcrumbs for an extra boost of flavor.
• Gluten-free breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free Chicken Parmesan.

Cheese Variations:

• Mozzarella and parmesan: Mix mozzarella and parmesan cheese for a creamy, salty flavor.
• Provolone and mozzarella: Combine provolone and mozzarella cheese for a smooth, buttery flavor.
• Goat cheese and mozzarella: Mix goat cheese and mozzarella for a tangy, creamy flavor.

Sauce Variations:

• Arrabbiata sauce: Use arrabbiata sauce for a spicy kick.
• Pesto sauce: Use pesto sauce for a flavorful, herby twist.
• Marinara sauce with a twist: Add some red pepper flakes to your marinara sauce for an extra kick.

Meat Variations:

• Chicken tenders: Use chicken tenders instead of breasts for a more tender, bite-sized Chicken Parmesan.
• Turkey or pork cutlets: Use turkey or pork cutlets for a different protein option.
• Vegan “chicken”: Use vegan “chicken” strips or tenders for a plant-based Chicken Parmesan.

Additional Toppings:

• Fresh basil: Add some fresh basil leaves on top of the Chicken Parmesan for a bright, herby flavor.
• Roasted vegetables: Top your Chicken Parmesan with roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, for added flavor and nutrition.
• Balsamic glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the top of the Chicken Parmesan for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Olive Garden Chicken Parmesan Recipe: A Delicious Duplicate

The Secret to the Breading:

• Panko breadcrumbs: Use Panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crisper coating.
• Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs: Add Italian seasoning to your breadcrumbs for an extra boost of flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumbs for an extra burst of flavor.

The Chicken:

• Pound the chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to 1/4 inch thickness for even cooking and a tender texture.
• Season the chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for added flavor.

The Sauce:

• Marinara sauce: Use a high-quality marinara sauce as the base for your sauce.
• Heavy cream: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a rich, creamy texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Assembling the Dish:

• Fry the chicken: Fry the breaded chicken breasts in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
• Assemble the dish: Place the fried chicken breasts on a baking dish, spoon the sauce over the top, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
• Bake until golden: Bake the dish in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips and Variations:

• Add some spice: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top of the dish for an extra kick.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or provolone, for a unique flavor profile.
• Add some veggies: Top the dish with sautéed vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrition and flavor.

FAQs

Q: Is this recipe a exact copycat of Olive Garden’s Chicken Parmesan?
A: While we’ve done our best to replicate the flavors and techniques used by Olive Garden, this recipe is an interpretation and not an exact replica.

Q: Can I use pre-breaded chicken cutlets for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use pre-breaded chicken cutlets as a shortcut, but keep in mind that the breading may not be as crispy as if you were to bread the chicken yourself.

Q: What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
A: Fresh mozzarella cheese is ideal for this recipe, as it melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture to the dish.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven instead of frying it, but keep in mind that the breading may not be as crispy.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until crispy and hot.

Q: Can I customize this recipe with other toppings?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with toppings like marinara sauce, melted provolone cheese, or sautéed spinach and garlic.