This Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Style Parmesan Chicken is a tasty dish that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It features chicken breasts coated in a cheesy, crunchy topping!
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up this flavorful meal! Pair it with some veggies, and you’ve got a perfect dinner that feels like a restaurant treat. Trust me, your family will love it! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, thighs can be used as an alternative, just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take longer to cook through.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives the dish its signature flavor. If you want a milder taste, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or even a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a creamier texture.
Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs add flavor and crunch. If you can’t find them, plain breadcrumbs will do fine; just sprinkle in some Italian seasoning for added taste.
Eggs & Milk: This mixture helps the coating stick. For a dairy-free option, use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk, and a flax egg can work as a substitute for eggs.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Chicken?
The key to crispy chicken is in the breading and frying method. Be sure to coat the chicken pieces thoroughly. Here are the steps:
- Flatten the chicken to maintain even cooking and achieve a crispier crust.
- Use a two-step breading process—first dip in egg, then in the breadcrumb mixture. This double coating helps lock in moisture while creating a crispy exterior.
- Fry the chicken in hot oil to get that golden brown effect. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet; this could lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken.
- After frying, finish cooking the chicken in the oven to ensure it’s fully cooked without burning the exterior. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Style Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- Fresh parsley or Italian seasoning (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Parmesan chicken takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, bringing the total to about 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weekday dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will help ensure your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prep the Chicken
Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures that they cook evenly and gives the chicken a nice crispy texture.
3. Mix the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Prepare the Egg Wash
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This will help the breading stick to the chicken.
5. Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast first into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Then press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are coated evenly for maximum crunch.
6. Fry the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken breasts carefully into the skillet. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy.
7. Bake for Perfection
Transfer the skillet with the chicken to the preheated oven. Bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps retain its juices. Garnish with fresh parsley or Italian seasoning if desired, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch!
Enjoy your delicious copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs generally take a bit longer to cook through than breasts.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. Alternatively, a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan can work well for a milder taste, but it may not be as crispy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs. This will maintain the texture and flavor while accommodating gluten-free dietary needs.
