This Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a tasty dish featuring crispy, cheesy chicken that’s sure to make your dinner special. It’s simple and packed with flavor!
I just love how quickly it comes together! You can enjoy it with a side of veggies or pasta, and trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken thighs work too. They tend to be juicier but will impact the cook time slightly.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add great flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed corn flakes. You can even make your own by processing stale bread.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice nutty flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano can be a good substitute, or use finely grated nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Marinara Sauce: This sauce adds moisture and flavor. If you prefer, you can swap it out for Alfredo sauce or even pesto. Homemade sauce is also a fantastic choice!
What’s the Best Way to Bread Chicken for a Crispy Texture?
Breading the chicken perfectly is key for that crispy texture. Here’s how to make it easier:
- Ensure your chicken breasts are completely dry before dredging. This helps the flour stick better.
- When coating, press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to create a thick crust that won’t fall off during cooking.
- Shallow frying in the skillet gives a nice crispy crust before transferring to the oven, which keeps the chicken juicy. Don’t rush this step!
Try not to overcrowd the skillet while frying; cook in batches if needed. It may take a little extra time, but the crispy results are worth it!
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
For the Coating:
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup marinara or spaghetti sauce (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly once you transfer it from the skillet.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Prepare three shallow dishes: In the first dish, mix the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second dish, crack and beat the eggs. In the third dish, combine the Italian breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and some salt and pepper.
3. Bread the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps the coating stick better. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any extra drip off, before finally coating it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press down a bit to ensure it’s well covered.
4. Cook the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook each breast for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches if your skillet isn’t big enough.
5. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Once your chicken is golden brown, remove the skillet from the heat. If you’re using marinara sauce, spoon it over each chicken breast. Then, sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the top of each piece.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the oven and garnish your chicken with freshly chopped parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness!
8. Enjoy!
Serve your Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken with your favorite sides, such as pasta, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad. Dig in and enjoy your delicious homemade dish!
FAQ for Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work well and can add extra juiciness to the dish. Just be mindful that they may take a few extra minutes to cook through. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour and Italian breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. You can use almond flour or chickpea flour, and gluten-free breadcrumbs are widely available at most grocery stores.
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it for up to a couple of hours before cooking. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before frying for the best results.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave, though the oven will help maintain the crispiness.
