Parmesan-Crusted Chicken from TGI Friday's features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy, golden Parmesan and herb crust, served with a side of tangy marinara sauce, offering a savory and crunchy delight.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Shallow dish or plate
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs
- Baking sheet or frying pan (depending on cooking method)
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil (if baking)
- Cooling rack (optional)
- Plate (for serving)
- Small bowl (for marinara sauce)
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (if pan-frying)
- Cooking spray or extra olive oil (if baking)
Make sure to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and crispiness in your Parmesan crust. Italian-style breadcrumbs provide authentic seasoning, but plain breadcrumbs can be enhanced with extra Italian herbs if needed. Properly drying the chicken breasts before coating helps the crust adhere better and prevents sogginess. Marinating the chicken briefly or seasoning the flour mixture with garlic powder and black pepper enhances the overall taste. Your Parmesan-Crusted Chicken from TGI Friday's copycat menu will deliver a deliciously crunchy and savory experience just like the restaurant version.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat if pan-frying.
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Prepare three shallow dishes:
- Dish 1: Place flour.
- Dish 2: Whisk eggs.
- Dish 3: Mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, Italian herbs, and garlic powder.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, coating both sides and shaking off excess.
- Dip chicken into beaten eggs, letting excess drip off.
- Coat chicken thoroughly in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- For baking: Line baking sheet with parchment paper or foil; lightly grease with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Place coated chicken breasts on prepared baking sheet or, if pan-frying, directly into the hot pan.
- If baking, spray tops of chicken with a little cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C), OR pan-fry 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Transfer cooked chicken breasts onto a cooling rack or plate.
- Warm marinara sauce in a small bowl (microwave or stovetop).
- Serve chicken hot with marinara sauce on the side.
Substitution
Parmesan-Crusted Chicken from TGI Friday's copycat menu delivers a crispy, herb-infused crust enveloping tender chicken breasts, perfect for home cooking. If Parmesan cheese is not available, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or a blend of Parmesan and Asiago cheese for a similar nutty flavor. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain the crispiness without compromising taste. When baking, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Your choice between pan-frying and baking might depend on your kitchen setup and desired texture--pan-frying yields a richer crust, while baking offers a lighter finish with less oil.
Tips
Ensuring even thickness of the chicken breasts by pounding them prevents uneven cooking and drying out. Use a reliable instant-read thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption. Press the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken to maintain a crispy crust during cooking. When baking, lightly greasing the parchment-lined sheet helps achieve a golden crust without sticking, enhancing the final texture of your Parmesan-Crusted Chicken.
Nutritions
Parmesan-Crusted Chicken from TGI Friday's provides a balanced source of protein from the tender chicken breasts, essential for muscle repair and growth. The Parmesan cheese adds calcium and healthy fats, while the Italian-style breadcrumbs contribute carbohydrates for energy. The addition of olive oil during cooking supplies heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, and the marinara sauce offers antioxidants and vitamins from the tomatoes. Your meal delivers a savory combination of macronutrients and micronutrients to support a nutritious diet.
Storage
Store leftover Parmesan-Crusted Chicken in an airtight container to maintain its crisp texture and savory flavor. Place a paper towel beneath the chicken to absorb excess moisture and keep the Parmesan crust crunchy during refrigeration. Your chicken will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days when stored properly at or below 40degF (4degC).
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute Italian-style breadcrumbs with panko for an extra crunchy texture in your Parmesan-Crusted Chicken. Try adding freshly chopped basil or parsley to the Parmesan mixture to enhance the herbaceous flavor. If you prefer, swap marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo or garlic butter sauce for a richer taste. For a healthier option, bake the chicken on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet to allow excess oil to drip away and achieve a crispier crust.
Allergies
Parmesan-Crusted Chicken contains common allergens such as dairy from Parmesan cheese and eggs used in the coating process. The breadcrumbs may contain gluten, which could pose a risk for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. If you have allergies to any of these ingredients, consider seeking alternative recipes or substitutions to ensure your meal is safe.
Why this recipe?
Parmesan-Crusted Chicken from TGI Friday's is favored for its crispy, golden crust combined with rich Parmesan cheese that delivers a savory and satisfying flavor. The tender chicken inside complements the crunchy exterior, creating a balanced texture that appeals to many diners. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, enhancing its versatility for different meals. Trying the copycat recipe allows you to recreate this popular restaurant-quality experience at home, offering both convenience and customization to suit your taste preferences.