This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is a tasty dinner option! It features juicy chicken breasts coated in crispy parmesan cheese and baked to perfection.
I love how easy it is to whip up this dish on a busy night. Serve it with pasta or a fresh salad for a yummy meal that feels special without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they are tender and cook quickly. If you want a healthier option, chicken thighs also work well and offer a bit more flavor. Or, try using turkey cutlets for a twist!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use pre-grated cheese. For a dairy-free alternative, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Breadcrumbs: I love using Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor. If you don’t have them, plain breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of Italian seasoning will work just fine. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
Mayonnaise: It keeps the chicken moist and adds flavor. If you don’t like mayonnaise, try Greek yogurt or sour cream instead for a lighter alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
The key to juicy chicken is evenly cooking it through. Here’s how:
- First, flatten the chicken breasts for even cooking. This way, the thicker parts won’t take longer to cook than the thinner ones.
- When frying, make sure your oil is hot but not smoking. This helps the coating crispen up nicely without making the chicken greasy.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
- If you’re not sure, you can cut into a chicken breast to check that it’s no longer pink inside.
Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Coating:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Frying:
- 1/4 cup olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
For Serving (optional):
- Marinara sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. So, in less than an hour, you can have a delightful dinner ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is hot and ready for the chicken once it’s fried.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and flatten them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps them cook evenly and remain juicy.
3. Set Up Your Dipping Stations:
Get three shallow dishes ready:
- Dish 1: Combine flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dish 2: Beat eggs together with mayonnaise and add in the dried basil or Italian seasoning.
- Dish 3: Mix breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and first dip it in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Then, dunk it into the egg mixture to coat it well. Lastly, press the chicken into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture so it gets a nice, thick coating. Make sure to press down gently to ensure it sticks!
5. Fry the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully lower the coated chicken breasts into the skillet. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. They won’t be fully cooked yet, so we’ll finish them off in the oven!
6. Bake the Chicken:
After frying, transfer the browned chicken breasts onto a baking sheet. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
7. Serve with Sauce:
If you like, spoon marinara sauce over the chicken before serving or place it on the side as a tasty dip.
8. Garnish & Enjoy:
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a touch of color and flavor. Serve the chicken hot and enjoy your homemade Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a slightly richer flavor and remain moist during cooking. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best results.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for the Breadcrumbs?
Yes! You can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cornflakes. This makes the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts until hot.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and coat it in advance. Cover it and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry and bake it. Just remember that it might need an extra minute or two to cook through if it’s cold from the fridge.
