This Parmesan chicken is crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious! It’s baked to perfection, making it a great weeknight meal that everyone will love.
I can’t resist the cheesy goodness, and it’s really easy to make! Serve it with a side of veggies or pasta, and you’ve got a tasty dinner without the fuss. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use turkey cutlets instead. Thighs also work well if you prefer dark meat.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or even a store-bought blend to save time!
Breadcrumbs: Seasoned Italian-style breadcrumbs add a nice herb flavor. You can use plain breadcrumbs and mix in some dried herbs if you can’t find seasoned ones. Panko is also a great option for an extra crunch.
Garlic powder: If you have fresh garlic, feel free to substitute! One or two minced cloves will give a fresher taste.
Olive oil: While olive oil is great for frying, you can use canola or vegetable oil as a substitute for a lighter flavor or if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
Getting that crispy coating is key! Here’s how:
- First, pound the chicken to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- When dredging, make sure each piece is fully coated in flour, then egg, and finally the breadcrumb mix. This layering helps create that crunchy crust!
- Fry in hot oil. If your pan is not hot enough, the chicken will soak up the oil instead of frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain the heat.
- After frying, baking allows the cheese to melt while keeping the chicken juicy.
These steps will help you achieve that golden-brown, crispy crust just like at Longhorn Steakhouse!
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
For the Coating:
- 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs (Italian-style)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Frying and Topping:
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15-20 minutes for preparation and about 30 minutes for cooking. So, in total, set aside roughly 45-50 minutes to create this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep Your Chicken:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking your chicken to a tender perfection. While the oven heats up, place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Set Up Your Dredging Station:
Grab three shallow dishes. In the first dish, add the flour. In the second dish, mix the eggs with the 2 tablespoons of water, whisking until smooth. In the third dish, combine the seasoned bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. You’re creating a flavorful coating for your chicken!
3. Dredge the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and begin the dredging process. First, coat it in the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, and then place it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so it sticks well. Repeat this process for all chicken breasts.
4. Fry the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken breasts. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. It’s okay if they aren’t fully cooked yet; they will finish baking in the oven.
5. Bake with Cheese:
Transfer the browned chicken breasts to a baking dish. Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over each breast. This will melt into delicious gooeyness as it bakes!
6. Final Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The cheese should be melted and bubbly on top.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve your Longhorn Steakhouse-style Parmesan Chicken hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a refreshing salad.
Enjoy your homemade Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken! It’s irresistible and sure to impress at the dinner table!
FAQ for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before pounding and cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps flatten the chicken evenly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereals as a substitute for the coating. This will keep the dish delicious while accommodating gluten sensitivities!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken up to the frying stage, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just fry, then bake as directed. You can also make the entire dish in advance and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
