If you’ve ever savored the crispy, cheesy delight at Longhorn Steakhouse and wished you could bring that comforting flavor home, then this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe is going to be your new favorite. It’s an irresistible blend of crunchy breadcrumb coating, rich Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, and tender, juicy chicken breasts baked to perfection. Each bite offers a harmonious balance of textures and flavors that feels both indulgent and homey. Cooking this dish in your own kitchen is easier than you think, and it makes for a dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or impressing guests alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are deceptively simple but absolutely essential. Each one plays a key role in creating the dish’s signature flavor and satisfying texture, whether it’s the golden crisp crust or the gooey cheesy topping that melts beautifully over the chicken.
- Chicken breasts (4, boneless skinless): Choose even-sized pieces for uniform cooking and juicy tenderness.
- Bread crumbs (1 cup): Adds the perfect crunch that contrasts with the cheesy topping.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Provides that salty, nutty depth that makes this recipe unmistakably Longhorn-inspired.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully to create a gooey, luscious layer on top of the chicken.
- All-purpose flour (½ cup): Helps the coating stick nicely to the chicken, ensuring even crisping.
- Large eggs (2): Act as a binder for the flour and breadcrumb layers.
- Milk (¼ cup): Lightens the egg mixture, making the coating tender but crunchy.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Adds a fresh, aromatic punch that enhances the cheesy topping.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Offers a blend of herbs that complements the cheese and chicken perfectly.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances flavors and highlights the seasoning.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Gives a gentle spice that awakens the palate.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used for pan-frying to achieve that golden, crispy crust on the chicken.
How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Coatings
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it heats, prepare three different dishes for dredging: one with flour, a second with beaten eggs and milk, and a third mixing breadcrumbs, half of the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Arranging your dredging stations this way makes the coating process smooth and mess-free.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in flour first to give the egg mixture something to cling to. Then dip into the egg and milk mixture, and finally, press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated on all sides. This three-step coating is key to locking in moisture while creating that crave-worthy crunchy texture.
Step 3: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the coated chicken breasts for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, turning carefully until each side is golden brown and crispy. This initial sear will give your chicken the perfect crust before it goes into the oven to finish cooking.
Step 4: Add the Cheesy Topping and Bake
Place the golden chicken breasts into a baking dish. Combine the remaining Parmesan cheese with shredded mozzarella and the minced garlic. Spoon this cheesy mixture evenly over each piece of chicken. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. This step completes the classic Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe flavor and texture.
How to Serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil can add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the rich flavors of the dish. A wedge of lemon on the side also offers a lovely zing if you like a hint of citrus to cut through the richness.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes, garlic roasted asparagus, or a simple Caesar salad complement its hearty texture and cheesy topping. For a lighter option, steamed green beans or a quinoa salad offers balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try serving the chicken on a rustic wooden board alongside grilled vegetables. Drizzle some balsamic glaze or a garlic herb sauce around the plate for an elegant touch that thrills guests and makes your meal feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate chicken portions so they reheat evenly without sogginess.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to keep it longer. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Label it so you remember this gem!
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispness and melt the cheese nicely again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful crunchy crust.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide extra juiciness and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since thighs are thicker and may take a bit longer to bake through.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
Mix equal parts dried oregano, basil, thyme, and a pinch of rosemary to create a similar herb blend. This homemade mix will still bring plenty of aromatic flavor to your chicken.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap regular bread crumbs and all-purpose flour for gluten-free alternatives. There are plenty of fine gluten-free coatings that will still give you great texture without compromising taste.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later?
You can coat and pan-fry the chicken ahead of time then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before adding the cheese and baking. This helps save time on busy days while keeping the flavors fresh.
What wine pairs well with Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with this dish. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese while complementing the herbaceous notes.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe at home is a delicious way to bring a restaurant favorite into your kitchen with ease and confidence. It strikes that perfect balance between rich, cheesy indulgence and crispy, tender chicken that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy every bite of this comforting classic with people you care about. You’ll be so glad you did!
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Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Longhorn Steakhouse-style Parmesan Chicken recipe features tender, breaded chicken breasts topped with a flavorful blend of Parmesan, mozzarella, and garlic, baked to golden perfection. It is a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping and Cooking
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and prep coating mixtures: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In one shallow dish, mix the bread crumbs, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. In a separate dish, beat together the eggs and milk. Place the flour in a third shallow dish.
- Dredge the chicken: Coat each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip into the egg and milk mixture, then finally press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat well on all sides.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the coated chicken breasts for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they become golden brown and crispy. Once seared, transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish.
- Prepare topping and bake: In a bowl, combine the remaining Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, and minced garlic. Spread this cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Notes
- For best results, use fresh mozzarella cheese or a good quality shredded mozzarella blend.
- Ensure chicken breasts are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- You can substitute Italian seasoning with a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme if preferred.
- Keep an eye on the chicken during baking to avoid overcooking and drying it out.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
