This Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a hit! Chicken breasts are coated with crispy breadcrumbs and melted cheese, creating a tasty delight everyone will love.
Honestly, who can say no to cheesy, crunchy chicken? I like to serve mine with some fresh veggies or over pasta for a fun twist. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they cook quickly and stay tender. You could use chicken thighs for a richer flavor or even pork cutlets if you prefer.
Breadcrumbs: I use Italian-style breadcrumbs for extra flavor. If you’re gluten-free, try almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs, or make your own by grinding gluten-free bread.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best taste and texture. If you’re in a hurry, pre-grated works, but fresh is always my choice. Pecorino Romano is a good substitute if you want something sharper.
Garlic Powder: This adds great depth of flavor. If you prefer, you can use fresh minced garlic, about 1-2 cloves, but note that it might brown faster during cooking.
Butter and Olive Oil: Using a mix helps achieve that golden crust. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try using just olive oil or avocado oil.
How Do You Get the Chicken Crispy?
Crispy chicken doesn’t have to be a mystery! Follow these simple steps for that perfect crunch. The key lies in proper breading and cooking technique.
- First, make sure to pound your chicken to even thickness; this helps it cook uniformly and keeps it juicy.
- Dredge in flour first—it creates a dry base that helps the egg stick better. Shake off any extra flour!
- When you bread the chicken, really press those breadcrumbs in. This helps them adhere better and creates a crunchier exterior.
- Cooking in a hot skillet allows for that nice, golden crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary.
Let the chicken rest after baking; it helps the juices settle and keeps it moist inside. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
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 Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and an additional 15-20 minutes to bake, making it a perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s ready when you finish preparing the chicken.
2. Prepare the Coatings:
Set up three shallow dishes. In the first dish, add the flour. In the second, beat the eggs with the water until combined. In the third dish, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and pound it to an even thickness so that it cooks evenly. This helps keep the chicken juicy!
4. Bread the Chicken:
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, and then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs stick well.
5. Cook the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, combine the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy.
6. Add the Cheese:
Once browned, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top of each chicken breast.
7. Bake:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted and bubbly!
8. Serve:
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a nice pop of color.
Enjoy your flavorful and cheesy Longhorn Steakhouse-style Parmesan Chicken! It’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer dark meat. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a bit longer to cook through. Aim for the same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
If you’re out of mozzarella, you can use provolone or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a delicious twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently in the oven or microwave to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the breaded chicken and store it in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. When you’re ready, just cook and bake as directed. For best results, it’s best to cook it fresh, but pre-breading makes it very convenient!
