Make Olive Garden Chicken Parmigiana Recipe at Home
Olive garden chicken parmigiana recipe: This dish features tender chicken cutlets, coated in breadcrumbs, smothered in marinara sauce, and topped with melted cheese.
Equipment
- The following utensils, kitchen tools, and appliances are required for preparing the Olive Garden chicken parmigiana recipe:
- Meat mallet
- Plastic Wrap
- Shallow dishes (3)
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Oven
- Meat thermometer (optional, but recommended)
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This tenderizes the chicken and ensures even cooking.
- Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station: In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This organized setup streamlines the breading process.
- Step 3: Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it is evenly coated on both sides. The breading should adhere well to the chicken.
- Step 4: Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. This step adds a flavorful crust to the chicken.
- Step 5: Assemble the Parmigiana: Preheat oven to 375F (190C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the sauce. Cover each chicken breast with a generous amount of marinara sauce and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. The sauce and cheese provide moisture and flavor.
- Step 6: Bake the Parmigiana: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. The baking time may vary depending on the oven.
- Step 7: Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the visual appeal. Serve hot with a side of spaghetti or a salad. Optional Tip: For a richer flavor, add a layer of thinly sliced provolone cheese under the mozzarella. To reduce fat, bake the breaded chicken instead of searing it in oil. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Notes
Variations
The Olive Garden chicken parmigiana recipe allows for several adaptations to cater to individual preferences and dietary needs:
- Ingredient Swaps:
- Turkey cutlets can be substituted for chicken breasts.
- Different cheese varieties, such as provolone or fontina, may be used in place of or in addition to mozzarella.
- For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or marinara sauce.
- Regional Twists:
- Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the marinara sauce before simmering imparts a tangy sweetness.
- Incorporating fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, into the breadcrumb mixture adds aromatic complexity.
- Dietary Adjustments:
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- To reduce fat, bake the breaded chicken instead of searing it in oil. Alternatively, use leaner chicken breasts.
- A low-sodium version can be achieved by using low-sodium marinara sauce and reducing the amount of salt added.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Parmigiana is a versatile dish suitable for various occasions:
- Traditional: Serve hot with a side of spaghetti or linguine tossed in marinara sauce.
- Sides: Pair with garlic bread, a fresh salad (such as a Caesar or mixed greens), or roasted vegetables.
- Occasions: Suitable for both casual weeknight dinners and more formal gatherings.
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an enhanced visual appeal.
Storage Tips
Proper storage helps preserve the freshness and flavor of the dish:
- Refrigeration: Leftover chicken parmigiana should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350F (175C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals to prevent overcooking.
- Freezing: For longer storage, chicken parmigiana can be frozen. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use pre-shredded cheese? While convenient, freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and has a better flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can inhibit melting.
- Question 2: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, the chicken can be breaded and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking. Assembling the entire dish before baking is also possible; however, its best to add the cheese just before baking to prevent it from drying out.
- Question 3: How do I prevent the breading from falling off? Ensure the chicken is dry before breading and that the breadcrumbs are pressed firmly onto the chicken. Allowing the breaded chicken to rest for a few minutes before searing can also help the breading adhere.
- Question 4: Can I use jarred marinara sauce? Yes, a quality jarred marinara sauce can be used as a convenient option. Consider enhancing it by adding fresh herbs, garlic, or a touch of red wine for a more complex flavor.