If you have ever craved a dish that combines crispy, cheesy goodness with juicy, tender chicken, then you are going to fall in love with the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe. This beloved recipe brings together layers of crunchy breadcrumbs, savory Parmesan, melty mozzarella, and aromatic garlic to create a mouthwatering entrée that feels both comforting and gourmet. It’s perfect for a family dinner or when you want to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this dish is a breeze because the ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential for building the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the crisp coating to the cheesy topping, making this recipe both approachable and delicious.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing tender, juicy meat to soak up all the flavors.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Adds a satisfying crunch and helps create that irresistible golden crust.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty punch that intensifies the dish’s savory taste.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to give you that gooey, cheesy topping everyone loves.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Helps the egg mixture stick to the chicken, forging the perfect base for the coating.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a glue to bind the breading to the chicken for maximum crispiness.
- ¼ cup milk: Lightens the egg wash and ensures even coating without excess heaviness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds fresh, fragrant flavor that complements the richness of the cheese.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a whisper of herbal warmth that lifts the whole dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every layer perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to achieve that golden-fried crust before baking.
How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Breading Station
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking your chicken. Next, set up three shallow dishes to organize your breading process: one with flour, the second with a mix of beaten eggs and milk, and the third combining breadcrumbs, half of your Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This setup makes the breading process quick and mess-free while layering flavor into each bite.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Take each chicken breast and dredge it first in the flour, making sure every part is lightly covered. Then dip it into the egg wash, which helps the next layer adhere beautifully. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, coating thoroughly to create a crunchy shell that will bake up golden and delicious.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat your olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the coated chicken breasts into the pan and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This step locks in the flavor and gives the breading a gorgeous golden brown color before the oven finishing touches. This little bit of stove-top magic brings texture and depth to the dish that baking alone can’t achieve.
Step 4: Bake with Cheese and Garlic
Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and all the shredded mozzarella cheese over each piece, along with the minced garlic. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and just starting to brown in spots. The combination of melted cheeses and garlic aromatic will make your kitchen smell absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the dish’s flavor and presentation with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves, giving it a pop of color and fresh herbaceous note. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add a sweet tangy contrast that pairs wonderfully with rich cheese and crispy chicken.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For something fresh and crisp, serve alongside a vibrant green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic buttered noodles complement the cheesy richness perfectly, while roasted vegetables add texture and earthiness to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, arrange the chicken breasts on a large serving platter, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs. Layer slices of lemon wedges along the edges to brighten the dish and give your guests the option to add a little zing. You can also serve it atop a bed of cooked spinach or arugula, creating an elegant, restaurant-style plating that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, keeping the chicken juicy and the cheese topping flavorful. Be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw slowly overnight in the refrigerator to help preserve its moisture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover lightly with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispy crust and melted cheese, unlike microwaving, which can make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a richer flavor and are less likely to dry out, but you may need to adjust cooking times a bit to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the breadcrumbs and all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour for a tasty gluten-free version.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken and keep it refrigerated for a few hours before cooking, but for the best crust, cook it fresh once breaded. Alternatively, you can assemble the entire dish, cover it, and bake as directed when ready.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano is a great substitute that offers a sharp, salty flavor similar to Parmesan, or you could use Asiago cheese for a milder option.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method, but if you don’t have one, slicing into the thickest part to ensure no pink remains will also work.
Final Thoughts
This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe is an absolute keeper that brings a comforting yet elegant meal to your table with ease. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a special occasion, the combination of crispy coating, garlic-infused cheese, and juicy chicken is sure to delight everyone. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how easy it is to bring that beloved restaurant flavor into your own kitchen!
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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 Parmesan Chicken recipe features tender, breaded chicken breasts topped with a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, baked to golden perfection. Crispy on the outside with a rich, cheesy topping, it’s a comforting, family-friendly dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready to bake the chicken after searing.
- Prepare the dredging stations: Set up three shallow dishes: In the first, mix breadcrumbs, half of the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; in the second, beat the eggs with milk; and place the flour in the third dish.
- Coat the chicken: Take each chicken breast and dredge it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture to create a seasoned crust.
- Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until each side is golden brown. This step locks in moisture and adds flavor.
- Assemble and bake: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, and minced garlic evenly over the top of each breast. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese topping is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh mozzarella to get a rich melt.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.
