This easy Parmesan chicken tastes just like the one from Longhorn Steakhouse. With crispy breadcrumbs and cheesy goodness, it’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
It’s such a fun dish to make! I love serving it with some pasta or a fresh salad. Who can resist that tasty cheese and crunch? Plus, it’s super simple to whip up on a busy night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken thighs can be used instead. They tend to be juicier and add extra flavor!
Italian-style Breadcrumbs: These add flavor and crunch. If you can’t find Italian breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of Italian seasoning or Panko breadcrumbs will work perfectly too!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives that salty, cheesy flavor. You can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Butter: This helps to achieve a crispy golden crust. If you prefer a lighter option, olive oil or avocado oil can substitute butter while still keeping your chicken moist.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy and Crispy?
To get that perfect juicy interior and crispy exterior, pay close attention to flattening your chicken. This ensures even cooking. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to about ½ inch thick.
- Coating Steps: Dredging in flour first helps the egg stick better, and the breadcrumb layer creates that lovely crunch.
- Melted Butter: Drizzle melted butter on top of the coated chicken before baking. It not only adds flavor but also helps to crisp up the breadcrumbs.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Ovens can vary, so check the internal temperature to keep your chicken moist.
Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Style Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 ½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup butter (1 stick), melted
- Cooking spray or olive oil, for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Parmesan chicken recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking. Altogether, you’re looking at around 40 minutes before you can dig into this flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
To ensure that your chicken cooks evenly, take each breast and flatten them to an even thickness of about ½ inch. You can use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to do this.
3. Set Up the Dredging Stations:
In three separate shallow bowls, set up your dredging stations. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs together with 1 tablespoon of water. In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take one chicken breast and dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip back into the bowl. Lastly, coat the chicken with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so that the crumbs stick well. Repeat this step for all chicken breasts.
5. Arrange and Add Butter:
Place the coated chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. After laying them out, drizzle the melted butter evenly over each piece. This will help ensure a moist and flavorful crust.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. They are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust turns a beautiful golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it hot with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. Enjoy your delightful homemade Longhorn Steakhouse style Parmesan chicken!
FAQs for Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Style Parmesan Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and can add extra flavor and moisture. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for even cooking and easy handling.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of Italian-style breadcrumbs. It’s a great way to enjoy the same flavors without the gluten!
Can I Prepare the Chicken in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the chicken ahead of time! Coat and arrange the chicken breasts in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just keep in mind that you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What Should I Serve This Dish With?
This Parmesan chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. You can also serve it over pasta or rice to soak up the delicious juices!
