Olive Garden Breaded Chicken Recipe: Crispy, Tender, and Delicious!

Olive Garden’s breaded chicken has earned its place as one of the restaurant’s signature dishes, beloved by many for its crispy, golden-brown coating and tender, juicy interior.

This dish is a classic comfort food that balances rich flavors with the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried chicken.

Whether you’re dining out or recreating this favorite at home, the breaded chicken offers a hearty and delicious meal that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and sauces.

The combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients and a straightforward cooking process makes this recipe accessible to anyone, from beginners to seasoned cooks.

In this post, we’ll walk you through each step to recreate the restaurant-style breaded chicken right in your own kitchen.

With a few key ingredients and the right techniques, you’ll be able to enjoy this crispy, savory dish without leaving the comfort of your home.

What Makes This Breaded Chicken Special

What sets Olive Garden’s breaded chicken apart from other fried chicken recipes is the balance between its crispy outer coating and the succulent, tender meat inside.

The breading is a carefully crafted blend of Italian-inspired ingredients like Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and a touch of seasoning, which creates a rich flavor that perfectly complements the mild chicken.

The secret to its signature crunch lies in the method of double breading: first, the chicken is coated in flour, then dipped in a mixture of beaten eggs, and finally rolled in a flavorful breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture.

This technique ensures that the crust is both thick and crispy, holding up beautifully even after being fried.

The combination of flavors—savory Parmesan, a hint of garlic, and aromatic herbs—creates a deliciously well-rounded dish that’s satisfying without being overwhelming.

It’s not just fried chicken; it’s a mouthwatering experience that brings the comforting taste of Italian cooking to the table.

This breaded chicken is also versatile. It can be served on its own with a side of marinara or Alfredo sauce, paired with pasta, or topped with cheese for an even richer flavor.

Its simplicity makes it a perfect dish for a family meal, while its indulgent taste makes it feel like a special treat every time you take a bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Olive Garden Breaded Chicken

Creating the perfect Olive Garden-style breaded chicken at home requires just a handful of ingredients, but each plays an important role in achieving that crispy, flavorful result.

Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are the star of the dish. Opt for fresh, thick chicken breasts for the best texture. If desired, you can tenderize the chicken by gently pounding it to an even thickness before cooking.

For the Breading:

• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the first layer of breading and helps the egg wash stick to the chicken.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs create a sticky coating that holds the breading together, ensuring a crisp exterior.
• Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs for a subtle texture or seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor. You can also use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crunchy finish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is essential for adding depth of flavor to the breading, giving it that signature savory taste.

For Seasoning:

• Garlic Powder: Adds a mild, aromatic kick to the breading.
• Onion Powder: Balances the garlic with a soft, sweet flavor.
• Dried Oregano: This herb brings an Italian touch, enhancing the savory notes of the chicken and breading.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and breading mixture. Adjust to taste.

Optional Additions:

• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley can be used to garnish the finished dish, adding color and a fresh, herbal note.
• Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil: For frying the chicken, ensuring a crisp and golden exterior.

With these simple ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a dish that tastes just like the one from Olive Garden’s kitchen.

Equipment Required

To make sure the breaded chicken turns out perfectly every time, a few key pieces of kitchen equipment will help streamline the process and ensure success:

1. Shallow Dishes for Breading

You’ll need three shallow dishes to create an efficient breading station. One dish will hold the seasoned flour, another will hold the beaten eggs, and the third will hold the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. The shallowness of the dishes makes it easier to coat the chicken evenly on all sides.

2. Large Skillet or Frying Pan

A heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan is essential for frying the chicken. It should be large enough to hold a few pieces of chicken at a time without overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking. A deep pan will also help to prevent oil splattering.

3. Tongs or Cooking Fork

Use tongs or a cooking fork to safely place the chicken in the hot oil and to turn it as it fries. This will allow you to keep your hands away from the hot oil while ensuring an even fry.

4. Meat Thermometer (Optional)

To ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat, a meat thermometer can come in handy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for it to be fully cooked.

5. Paper Towels or Cooling Rack

After frying, place the chicken on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Alternatively, you can use a cooling rack to allow the chicken to stay crisp as it rests.

6. Spatula

A spatula will be helpful for lifting and flipping the chicken during frying, ensuring the breading stays intact and the chicken cooks evenly.

With these basic tools, you’ll have everything you need to prepare and cook the perfect Olive Garden-style breaded chicken.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Olive Garden Breaded Chicken

Creating Olive Garden’s signature breaded chicken at home is easier than you might think.

By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to achieve that perfect crispy coating and tender interior every time.

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Before you start the breading process, it’s important to prepare the chicken properly:

• Flatten the Chicken Breasts (Optional): To ensure even cooking, you may want to pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness. Place them between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they’re about 1/2-inch thick.
• Season the Chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder to season them evenly. This enhances the flavor of the chicken itself, making sure it’s delicious both inside and out.

Step 2: Preparing the Breading Station

This is where the magic happens! Set up three shallow dishes to create an efficient breading station:

• Dish 1 (Flour): Place the all-purpose flour in the first dish and season it with a little more salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Dish 2 (Egg Wash): Crack a couple of eggs into the second dish and beat them well until the yolks and whites are fully combined.
• Dish 3 (Breadcrumb-Parmesan Mixture): In the third dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and a pinch of garlic powder. Mix them together until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Breading the Chicken

Now that everything is prepped, it’s time to coat the chicken:

• Coat in Flour: Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, making sure it’s evenly coated on both sides. Gently shake off any excess flour.
• Dip in Egg Wash: Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, making sure it’s completely coated. The egg wash will help the breadcrumb mixture stick.
• Coat in Breadcrumbs: Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides. Press down gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere well.

Step 4: Frying the Chicken

Now, it’s time to fry the breaded chicken to perfection:

• Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when it shimmers and a breadcrumb dropped in sizzles immediately.
• Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the breading is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Drain Excess Oil: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 5: Assembling and Serving the Dish

Once your breaded chicken is golden and crispy, it’s time to serve it:

• Plating the Chicken: Arrange the fried chicken breasts on a serving plate. If desired, you can drizzle a little marinara or Alfredo sauce over the top, or serve them on the side for dipping.
• Add Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Olive Garden-style breaded chicken!

Tips for the Perfect Olive Garden Breaded Chicken

To ensure your breaded chicken turns out as crispy and flavorful as possible, keep these helpful tips in mind:

1. Ensure Even Coating

To avoid clumps or uneven breading, make sure each piece of chicken is properly coated at each stage—flour, egg wash, and breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the chicken to ensure the coating sticks well.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Frying too many pieces of chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy breading. Fry in batches if necessary, allowing each piece enough room to cook evenly.

3. Maintain the Right Oil Temperature

The oil temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. If the oil is too hot, the breading will burn before the chicken cooks through. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil, making it greasy. Keep the oil around 350°F (175°C) for the best results.

4. Double Breading for Extra Crispiness

For an extra crispy coating, consider double breading your chicken. After dipping the chicken in the egg wash and breadcrumb mixture, let it rest for a few minutes before dipping it in the egg wash and breadcrumbs again. This will give you an even thicker, crunchier crust.

5. Use Fresh Parmesan

For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated Parmesan can have a drier texture and less flavor, so fresh is always the way to go when adding it to the breading mixture.

6. Test for Doneness

To avoid undercooking or overcooking the chicken, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

The chicken is ready when it reaches 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, slice into the thickest part of the chicken and ensure the juices run clear.

By following these tips, you’ll achieve the perfect balance of crispy, golden breading and tender, juicy chicken every time. Happy cooking!

Variations of the Olive Garden Breaded Chicken Recipe

While the classic Olive Garden breaded chicken recipe is delicious on its own, there are many fun and flavorful variations you can try to make it your own.

Here are a few ideas to switch things up and add a personal twist to your dish:

1. Spicy Breaded Chicken

For those who like a bit of heat, adding a touch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour and breadcrumb mixture can infuse the chicken with a spicy kick. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the finished chicken for an extra layer of flavor.

2. Lemon Herb Breaded Chicken

For a refreshing twist, add some lemon zest and dried thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture. This will give your breaded chicken a citrusy, herbal flavor that pairs beautifully with a light salad or pasta. You can also serve the chicken with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.

3. Parmesan-Crusted Breaded Chicken

If you’re a fan of a thicker, cheesier crust, increase the amount of Parmesan cheese in your breadcrumb mixture. This variation will create a rich, cheesy layer that forms a flavorful, crunchy crust. It’s perfect for those who love a little extra cheese in every bite.

4. Gluten-Free Breaded Chicken

For a gluten-free version, simply swap out the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs made from rice, corn, or even crushed rice crackers, and ensure the flour is also gluten-free. The result will be just as crispy and satisfying as the original!

5. Mozzarella-Stuffed Breaded Chicken

Take your breaded chicken to the next level by stuffing it with a gooey layer of mozzarella cheese before breading.

You can also add spinach or sundried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. This variation gives you a cheesy surprise in the center of every bite and makes the dish even more indulgent.

6. Pesto Chicken

For a delicious Italian twist, spread a thin layer of pesto sauce on the chicken before breading it. The basil and garlic flavor of pesto will infuse the chicken, creating a wonderfully fragrant and herbaceous variation. This version works wonderfully with pasta or grilled vegetables on the side.

Pairing Olive Garden Breaded Chicken with Sides and Sauces

One of the best things about Olive Garden’s breaded chicken is how versatile it is when it comes to pairing with sides and sauces.

Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or as part of a larger meal, here are some excellent options for pairing:

Sides

• Garlic Bread: No Italian meal is complete without garlic bread. The crunchy, buttery, and garlicky bread pairs perfectly with the crispy breaded chicken and is great for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Pasta: A classic pairing with breaded chicken is a plate of pasta. Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne tossed with marinara or Alfredo sauce will complement the chicken’s flavor and texture. You can even serve the chicken on top of the pasta for a hearty meal.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing Caesar salad with crunchy croutons, creamy dressing, and Parmesan cheese makes an excellent side dish. The tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the breaded chicken, creating a balanced meal.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or zucchini offer a healthy and vibrant contrast to the crispy chicken. You can drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with a little Parmesan for added flavor.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes, seasoned with rosemary, garlic, and olive oil, are a great complement to breaded chicken. The potatoes’ hearty texture and flavor pair beautifully with the crunchy chicken.

Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing for breaded chicken, marinara sauce adds a tangy, tomato-based element to balance the richness of the chicken. You can serve it on the side for dipping or spooned over the top.
• Alfredo Sauce: For a richer, creamier option, Alfredo sauce is a perfect choice. The velvety texture of the sauce pairs wonderfully with the crispy breading, creating a satisfying and indulgent dish.
• Lemon Butter Sauce: A zesty and buttery lemon sauce brings a refreshing note to the dish. The bright citrus flavor cuts through the richness of the breaded chicken, offering a lighter option compared to heavier cream-based sauces.
• Garlic Butter Sauce: If you prefer a garlicky flavor, garlic butter sauce is an ideal choice. The rich, savory butter sauce enhances the chicken’s flavor while adding a rich, garlicky depth.
• Pesto: If you made the pesto-stuffed variation of the chicken, a drizzle of extra pesto on top will amplify the flavor and tie the dish together with its fresh basil and garlic notes.

These pairings provide plenty of options to elevate your Olive Garden breaded chicken and create a complete, satisfying meal.

Whether you prefer a light, fresh accompaniment or a rich, creamy sauce, there’s a combination to suit every taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Olive Garden Breaded Chicken

1. Can I make Olive Garden breaded chicken in the oven instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken if you prefer a lighter, less oily version. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a cooling rack and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

The chicken should be golden and crispy when done. For the crispiest results, you can also spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray before baking.

2. How can I make the breading stick better to the chicken?

To help the breading stick better, make sure the chicken is thoroughly coated in the flour and egg wash before applying the breadcrumb mixture.

Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to create a thick, even coating. For an even crispier result, you can double-bread the chicken by dipping it in the egg wash and breadcrumbs a second time before frying.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken breasts, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and slightly richer alternative. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, as thighs typically take a little longer to cook through than chicken breasts.

4. How do I store leftovers of Olive Garden breaded chicken?

To store leftover breaded chicken, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, it’s best to use the oven or a skillet to maintain the crispiness.

If using the oven, preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time. You can bread the chicken, then cover it and refrigerate it for up to a few hours before frying.

This will allow the breading to set, making it easier to fry when you’re ready to cook. Just make sure to follow the frying instructions when you’re ready to finish the dish.

Conclusion

Olive Garden’s breaded chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that brings together a crispy, golden crust and tender chicken, all enhanced by the savory flavors of Parmesan, garlic, and Italian seasoning.

Whether you enjoy it with pasta, a light salad, or a rich sauce, this recipe is sure to please. By following the simple steps and tips provided, you can easily recreate this restaurant-style dish in your own kitchen.

Feel free to experiment with the variations we’ve shared, from spicy twists to cheesy stuffed options, and discover new ways to enjoy this comfort food favorite.

With a few tweaks, you can make this breaded chicken your own and serve it for family meals, special occasions, or whenever you want a delicious, satisfying dish.

Now it’s time to get cooking and treat yourself and your loved ones to a plate of crispy, flavorful breaded chicken—just like Olive Garden!