This Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a tasty dish that features juicy chicken breast smothered in a cheesy, crunchy topping. It’s simple enough for any night of the week!
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy topping? I love making this on busy days because it comes together quickly and tastes like a restaurant meal. Pair it with some veggies, and you’re set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use chicken thighs, which stay juicier when cooking.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor and crunch. If you want to save some money, you can use a mix of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Breadcrumbs: Seasoned Italian breadcrumbs give flavor and texture. If gluten-free is necessary, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Eggs and Milk: These help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. For a dairy-free option, you can use almond or oat milk and replace the eggs with a flaxseed mixture or a commercial egg replacer.
How Do I Get Perfectly Coated Chicken?
The key to getting a good coating on the chicken is in the dredging process. Be sure to follow these steps closely:
- First, season the chicken with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- In the flour stage, shake off any excess flour to prevent clumping.
- When dipping in egg, ensure every surface is covered, as this helps the breadcrumbs stick.
- For the breadcrumb coating, press firmly to get a thick layer. The more you pack on, the crunchier the crust!
Once you fry and bake the chicken, it creates that delicious golden-brown crust we’re all looking for.
Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (Italian style)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to cook, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your homemade Longhorn Steakhouse-style Parmesan Chicken in about 40-45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Set Up Your Dredging Station:
Get three shallow bowls ready. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. In the third bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Season the Chicken:
Lightly season each chicken breast with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
4. Dredge the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and first coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, making sure it’s completely coated. Finally, press the chicken breast into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring you cover all sides well.
5. Cook the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. When the butter has melted, add the coated chicken breasts. Cook until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Bake to Perfection:
After browning the chicken, transfer the skillet (or move the chicken to your prepared baking dish) to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and its juices run clear. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side if you like a little zest.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Longhorn Steakhouse-style Parmesan Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer darker meat. They stay juicy and flavorful, making them a delicious alternative. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few additional minutes to reach the proper internal temperature.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Parmesan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it for a quicker option, but the oven will help retain the crispiness of the coating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken up to the baking stage, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before putting it in the oven for even cooking.
What Do I Serve With Parmesan Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad. Roasted vegetables or sautéed greens also make great accompaniments to complement the flavors of the chicken.
