This Parmesan chicken is a tasty dish that makes dinner special! It’s juicy chicken coated in a crispy Parmesan crust, baked to perfection and ready in no time.
You’ll love how simple it is to make! I enjoy pairing it with a side of veggies for a colorful plate. Plus, my family always asks for seconds—can’t blame them, it’s that good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken thighs are a great alternative. They have more flavor and remain tender when cooked.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano can work too. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy flavor.
Italian-Style Seasoned Breadcrumbs: These add a nice crunch and flavor. If you don’t have them, regular breadcrumbs mixed with Italian herbs, or even panko for extra crunch, will do. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are an option for a gluten-sensitive diet.
Eggs: The eggs help bind the breadcrumb mixture to the chicken. If you want to skip them, you can use a mixture of ground flaxseed and water (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan alternative.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Coating Stays Crispy?
To get that beautiful golden, crispy coating, follow these key steps:
- Make sure the chicken breasts are patted dry; moisture can prevent the coating from sticking.
- Dip them in the egg mixture first to help the breadcrumb mix stick well.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the chicken firmly to make sure it adheres well before cooking.
- Cook the chicken in a screaming hot skillet; this seals in the juices and gives it that crispy texture.
- If baking, use an oven-safe skillet to keep the pieces warm and crispy as they finish cooking in the oven.
Following these tips should help you achieve a delightful, crispy Parmesan chicken that your family will love! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Easy Longhorn Steakhouse 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-style seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- For Cooking:
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for cooking)
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook in total. So, you can have a delicious Parmesan chicken dinner ready in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the chicken cook evenly and get that nice golden color. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper—this will make cleanup easier later!
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This delicious mix will give your chicken great flavor and crunch!
3. Make the Egg Wash:
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. This mixture will help the breadcrumb coating stick to the chicken.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This is an important step as it helps the coating stick better! Dip each chicken breast first into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Then, coat the chicken in the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs adhere well.
5. Brown the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken breasts. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the crust is golden brown. This step seals in the juices and adds flavor!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Now, transfer the skillet with the chicken to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures it’s safe to eat!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even juicier. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if you’d like. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
FAQ for Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option since they’re juicier and can handle a bit more cooking without drying out. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed since thighs may take a few extra minutes.
What Can I Use Instead of Italian-Style Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have Italian-style breadcrumbs, you can use plain breadcrumbs mixed with Italian herbs like oregano and basil or even panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Gluten-free options are also available if needed!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or microwave. If they seem a bit dry, adding a splash of chicken broth can help moisten them back up.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the coated chicken a few hours beforehand and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking for even results!
