This delicious Parmesan chicken is crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor, just like the one from Longhorn Steakhouse! It’s perfect for a fun dinner night at home.
What’s great about this recipe is how easy it is to make. Just coat the chicken, fry it up, and top it with melty cheese. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds! 😄
I love serving this with a side of pasta or a fresh salad. It’s such a crowd-pleaser, and I’m pretty sure everyone will want to know your secret! Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just adjust cooking times as needed since thighs may take a bit longer.
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs give great flavor. If you can’t find them, you can use plain breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of Italian seasoning or herbs like oregano and basil.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds rich, nutty notes to the dish. If you’re looking for a budget solution, Pecorino Romano can be a good substitute for a sharper taste.
Olive Oil: While olive oil is great for frying, you can use a light vegetable oil for a milder flavor. I often prefer using avocado oil for its high smoke point and health benefits.
How Do I Get My Chicken Crispy?
Crispy chicken can be a bit tricky, but it’s all about the coating and frying technique. Here are steps to ensure the crunch:
- Pound the chicken to an even thickness; this helps it cook uniformly.
- Make sure to thoroughly coat the chicken in each step: flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken so they stick well.
- Use hot oil for frying. It should be shimmering but not smoking. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb it and get greasy.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Fry a couple of pieces at a time to maintain the oil temperature.
Following these steps will give you that desirable golden-brown crust that everyone loves!
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce (optional for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes preparing and breading the chicken, followed by 10 minutes for frying and 10-15 minutes baking in the oven to melt that delicious cheese. So, let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your chicken is all nice and cooked!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Grab a meat mallet or rolling pin and pound the chicken down to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
3. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You want to give it a good flavor kick!
4. Set Up Dredging Stations:
Get three shallow dishes ready: one for the flour, one for the eggs mixed with milk, and one for the breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese. This makes the breading process a breeze!
5. Bread the Chicken:
First, coat each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, letting any extra drip off. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s well coated.
6. Fry the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy.
7. Bake with Cheese:
Once the chicken is fried, transfer the pieces to a baking sheet. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top of each chicken breast. Pop the baking sheet into the oven for about 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly (the internal temperature should be 165°F / 74°C).
8. Finish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, garnish the chicken with chopped fresh parsley. Serve it up with warm marinara sauce on the side if you like, and pair with your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes or fresh steamed veggies!
Enjoy your homemade Longhorn Steakhouse-style Parmesan Chicken—deliciously crispy and cheesy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish. Just be mindful that they may require a slightly longer cooking time, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just verify that your breadcrumbs are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can bread the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying. This helps the coating stick better. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before frying for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps maintain its crispiness rather than microwaving it.
