Chicken Parmesan from The Cheesecake Factory features tender breaded chicken breasts topped with melted mozzarella and marinara sauce, served over a bed of al dente spaghetti, delivering a savory Italian classic with a crispy, cheesy, and saucy combination.
Equipments
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Meat mallet
- Mixing bowls
- Shallow dredging dishes
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Large skillet
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Grater (for cheese)
- Oven
- Pot (for boiling pasta)
- Colander
- Serving plates
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
When preparing the breading for your chicken breasts, ensure the Italian-style breadcrumbs are well combined with grated Parmesan cheese and dried herbs like oregano and basil to achieve the authentic cheesy and herbaceous flavor. Use large boneless, skinless chicken breasts to get tender, juicy meat that crisps nicely when coated and fried. Maintain the seasoning balance by adding salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the savory profile of the dish. Choose high-quality shredded mozzarella for a melty, gooey topping that pairs perfectly with rich marinara sauce and al dente spaghetti. Your Chicken Parmesan from the Cheesecake Factory copycat menu will capture the irresistible crispy, cheesy, and saucy combination that the original is famous for.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 thin cutlets.
- Place chicken between plastic wrap and pound to even thickness with meat mallet.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and basil.
- Set up three dredging stations: flour in first dish, whisked eggs in second, breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan in third.
- Dredge chicken in flour, shake off excess.
- Dip chicken in egg, let excess drip off.
- Coat chicken in breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry chicken cutlets 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer fried chicken onto wire rack set over baking sheet.
- Boil spaghetti in pot of salted water until al dente; drain in colander.
- Heat marinara sauce in saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Spoon some marinara onto each chicken cutlet, top with shredded mozzarella.
- Bake chicken in oven 8-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Plate spaghetti, spoon marinara sauce over top.
- Place baked chicken parmesan over spaghetti.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve hot on serving plates.
Substitution
Chicken Parmesan from The Cheesecake Factory copycat menu offers a delicious homemade alternative to the restaurant favorite. You can substitute Italian-style breadcrumbs with panko mixed with Italian seasoning if needed. If fresh chicken breasts are unavailable, thinly sliced chicken thighs can add extra flavor and moisture. When shredded mozzarella isn't on hand, provolone or a mild fontina work well to maintain that melty, cheesy texture. Using store-bought marinara sauce is a convenient option, but homemade sauce can elevate the depth of flavor in the final dish.
Tips
Ensure chicken cutlets are pounded to an even thickness to promote uniform cooking and prevent dryness. Use a wire rack set over a baking sheet when transferring fried chicken to retain crispiness and avoid sogginess. Boil spaghetti in generously salted water until al dente to enhance flavor and maintain texture. Remember to press breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken so the coating adheres well during frying and baking, ensuring your Chicken Parmesan is perfectly crispy.
Nutritions
Chicken Parmesan from The Cheesecake Factory provides a balanced meal with protein from tender breaded chicken breasts and calcium-rich mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. The dish offers energy through carbohydrates in the al dente spaghetti and is enhanced with healthy fats from olive oil used in frying. Marinara sauce contributes vitamins and antioxidants from tomatoes and herbs like oregano and basil. You can enjoy a flavorful Italian classic while benefiting from protein, vitamins, and a moderate fat content.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container, keeping the chicken separate from the spaghetti to maintain texture. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, reheating in the oven at 350degF (175degC) to preserve the crispy breading and melted cheese. You can also freeze portions by wrapping tightly in foil and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute panko breadcrumbs for Italian-style breadcrumbs to add extra crunch to your chicken Parmesan. Instead of frying, try baking the breaded cutlets directly on a wire rack to reduce oil usage and keep them crispy. Swap out spaghetti for zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta for a lighter or dietary-friendly option. Use fresh mozzarella slices in place of shredded for a creamier and more authentic melted cheese texture.
Allergies
Chicken Parmesan from The Cheesecake Factory contains common allergens such as wheat (from all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs), eggs, and dairy (from Parmesan and mozzarella cheese). If you have allergies to gluten, eggs, or milk products, you should avoid this dish or inquire about allergen-free alternatives. Always inform restaurant staff about your allergies to ensure your meal is safe.
Why this recipe?
Chicken Parmesan from The Cheesecake Factory blends crispy breaded chicken with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, creating a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. The dish is praised for its generous portions and balanced seasoning, making it a favorite among customers seeking comfort food with a gourmet twist. Replicating this popular menu item allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home while customizing ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Trying a copycat recipe also provides an affordable alternative without compromising the authentic flavor and presentation.