A Closer Look at Spaghetti Factory's Chicken Parmigiana Calories
For many, a trip to The Old Spaghetti Factory promises a comforting plate of Italian-American classics. The Chicken Parmigiana, with its perfectly seasoned chicken breast and melted cheese, is a popular choice. Knowing the calorie content is key for managing your diet, especially when dining out. According to the restaurant's nutritional information, a full serving of their Chicken Parmigiana is 750 calories. However, it's important to consider that this figure reflects the complete entree, which includes the breaded chicken breast, sauces, and an accompanying side of spaghetti. The overall caloric value is influenced by multiple components, from the type of fat used in frying the chicken to the amount of cheese and pasta included.
Macronutrient Breakdown
To better understand the calorie count, we can break down the macronutrient composition of the dish:
- Carbohydrates: 70g total, of which 5g is dietary fiber and 9g are sugars. This accounts for a significant portion of the calories and comes mainly from the pasta and breading.
- Fat: 29g total, with 8g being saturated fat. This makes up about 35% of the total calories and is derived from the breading, frying oil, and cheese.
- Protein: 51g total. This is a substantial amount, providing over 100% of the daily value for protein for many individuals.
- Sodium: At 1,290mg, the sodium level is relatively high, representing over half of the recommended daily intake.
Comparison of Chicken Parmigiana Calorie Counts
While The Old Spaghetti Factory's offering provides a good benchmark, it's insightful to compare it to other restaurant versions or a typical homemade recipe. This comparison table highlights how significant preparation and serving size can be for total calories.
| Item | Calories | Total Fat | Sodium | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OSF Chicken Parmigiana | 750 cal | 29g | 1,290mg | 51g |
| Chicken Parmigiana (Average) | 567 cal | 33.7g | 966mg | 47.9g |
| Chicken Parmigiana without Pasta (Italian restaurant) | 614 cal | 32g | 1,613mg | 49g |
As the table demonstrates, the side of spaghetti and the restaurant-specific preparation methods contribute notably to The Old Spaghetti Factory's total calorie count. For instance, the average restaurant chicken parm without pasta is significantly lower in carbs and overall calories, highlighting that the pasta and accompanying sauces are a key factor in the caloric load.
Tips for a Healthier Spaghetti Factory Meal
For those looking to enjoy The Old Spaghetti Factory's menu while being mindful of their health, several strategies can help reduce calorie and sodium intake.
- Portion Control: The restaurant's entree size is generous. Consider splitting the dish with a companion or asking for a to-go box immediately to save half for later. This simple action can cut your meal's calories in half.
- Modify your side: The standard Chicken Parmigiana includes spaghetti. You can request a different side or swap your pasta for a healthier alternative if available, like extra vegetables or a side salad with a lighter dressing. The official nutrition guide lists a side of broccoli with cheese sauce at 60 calories, which could be a lighter option than the spaghetti side that is included with the meal.
- Watch the Bread and Butter: The complimentary sourdough bread and garlic butter can add hundreds of calories before your entree arrives. Limit your consumption or skip it altogether.
- Adjust Cheese and Sauce: You can ask for less cheese on your chicken parmigiana to shave off some calories and fat. Requesting the sauce on the side also gives you control over the amount you consume.
- Stay Hydrated: Opt for water instead of sugary sodas or juice. The Spaghetti Factory's classic Italian Cream Soda contains 150 calories alone.
- Choose Lighter Entrees: If a full Chicken Parmigiana is more than you need, consider other menu items. For example, their Spinach and Cheese Ravioli is listed at 310 calories, a significant reduction.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
When dining at The Old Spaghetti Factory, their Chicken Parmigiana serves up a hearty meal of 750 calories. The total comes from a combination of the breaded chicken, the cheese, and the side of spaghetti. For those watching their weight or calorie intake, understanding this breakdown allows for informed choices. By controlling portion sizes, substituting sides, and making minor modifications, it's possible to enjoy this Italian favorite while staying within your dietary goals. The key is to be aware of the full nutritional picture and take advantage of the available options to customize your meal. For a detailed guide to all menu items, you can consult the official nutrition information provided by The Old Spaghetti Factory.
Official Old Spaghetti Factory Nutrition Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in the lunch portion of Chicken Parmigiana at Spaghetti Factory?
There is no specified lunch portion for the Chicken Parmigiana, so assume the standard 750-calorie count unless the restaurant explicitly states otherwise. However, the 'side of chicken parmigiana breast' on its own is significantly lower, at 430 calories.
Can I make the Chicken Parmigiana healthier at The Old Spaghetti Factory?
Yes. Ask for less cheese and get the pasta and marinara sauce on the side so you can control the portion size. You can also swap the pasta side for a salad with a light dressing.
What are the main sources of calories in Spaghetti Factory's Chicken Parmigiana?
The calories come from the breaded and fried chicken, the melted cheese topping, and the accompanying side of spaghetti with marinara sauce.
Is Spaghetti Factory's Chicken Parmigiana high in sodium?
Yes, a single serving contains 1,290mg of sodium, which is over 50% of the average recommended daily intake.
How much protein is in the Chicken Parmigiana from Spaghetti Factory?
The dish is a good source of protein, with a full serving containing 51g.
What is a lower-calorie option than Chicken Parmigiana at The Old Spaghetti Factory?
Lighter choices include the Minestrone Soup (100 cal) or the Spinach and Cheese Ravioli (310 cal). The House Salad with no dressing is only 15 calories.
Is the caloric information on Spaghetti Factory's menu accurate?
The calorie counts are typically based on standard recipes and may vary slightly based on preparation. It is best to use them as an informed guideline.
