How To Make Chicken Parmesan Like Olive Garden: A Step-by-step Guide

Chicken parmesan is a beloved Italian dish that has captured the hearts of diners worldwide. Olive Garden, the popular restaurant chain, has become synonymous with this delectable dish, serving it with its signature crispy exterior and flavorful marinara sauce. If you’re craving that irresistible Olive Garden chicken parmesan experience from the comfort of your own home, this guide will provide you with all the essential steps and tips to recreate it with perfection.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup Italian bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Cut the chicken breasts into thin cutlets.
• Place the flour, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, garlic powder, and oregano in a shallow dish and mix well.
• Dip each chicken cutlet into the flour mixture, coating it evenly.

2. Dredge in Egg:

• Dip the coated chicken cutlets into the beaten egg.
• Ensure that the egg completely covers the chicken.

3. Pan-Fry the Chicken:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Carefully place the coated chicken cutlets into the hot oil.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

4. Prepare the Sauce:

• Pour the marinara sauce into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
• Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the Chicken Parmesan:

• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
• Place the fried chicken cutlets over the sauce.
• Top each chicken cutlet with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese.

6. Bake:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake the chicken parmesan for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Garnish and Serve:

• Remove the chicken parmesan from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Olive Garden-Style Chicken Parmesan:

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overmix the flour mixture, as it can make the breading tough.
• Dredge the chicken twice in the egg to ensure a crispy crust.
• Cook the chicken over medium heat to prevent burning.
• Let the chicken rest before slicing to prevent the breading from falling off.
• Serve with a side of pasta or breadsticks for a complete Olive Garden experience.

Variations:

• Chicken Parmesan with Alfredo Sauce: Use Alfredo sauce instead of marinara sauce for a creamy and indulgent twist.
• Chicken Parmesan with Eggplant: Layer slices of grilled eggplant under the chicken for a vegetarian alternative.
• Chicken Parmesan with Pesto: Spread a layer of pesto sauce over the chicken before adding the mozzarella cheese for a flavorful variation.

Key Points:

Mastering the art of chicken parmesan like Olive Garden is a culinary adventure that will impress your family and friends. By following these detailed instructions and tips, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and embark on a culinary journey that will transport you to the flavors of Olive Garden.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use pre-breaded chicken cutlets?

Yes, you can use pre-breaded chicken cutlets to save time. However, they may not have the same crispy texture as homemade breading.

2. What type of cheese is best for chicken parmesan?

Shredded mozzarella cheese is the most traditional choice for chicken parmesan. However, you can also use a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

3. How can I make the marinara sauce from scratch?

To make homemade marinara sauce, sauté chopped onions, garlic, and herbs in olive oil. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings. Simmer until the sauce thickens.

4. Can I freeze chicken parmesan?

Yes, you can freeze chicken parmesan. After baking, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

5. What side dishes pair well with chicken parmesan?

Chicken parmesan pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as pasta, breadsticks, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.