This Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a winner! Juicy chicken is coated in crunchy cheese crumbs that make every bite full of flavor. It’s simple to whip up during a busy weeknight.
I love how quickly this dish comes together, plus it pairs perfectly with a side salad or some tasty veggies. It’s like a delicious dinner at home without the long wait! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier result. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds rich flavor. In a pinch, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even use a vegan Parmesan if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs: These add a nice crunch and flavor. If you don’t have them, try plain breadcrumbs mixed with Italian herb seasoning. Panko breadcrumbs work great too for extra crunch!
Eggs: They help the breadcrumbs stick. If you’re avoiding eggs, you can use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a similar effect.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Evenly?
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is essential for even cooking. This step not only helps it cook uniformly but also tenderizes the meat, making it juicier.
- Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken out to about 1/2 inch thick.
This trick ensures that thicker parts don’t remain raw while thinner parts cook fully!
Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for cooking, totaling around 45 minutes from start to finish. You’ll enjoy a delicious chicken dinner in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Flatten the Chicken
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). This step ensures that they cook evenly and helps them stay juicy. You can use a meat mallet or a rolling pin for this – just cover the chicken with plastic wrap or parchment paper first.
3. Make the Coating Mixture
In a shallow dish, mix together the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will be the delicious coating for your chicken!
4. Prepare the Dipping Stations
In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well blended. Then, place the flour on a separate plate. You now have your dredging setup ready.
5. Coat the Chicken
Take each chicken breast and dredge it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the extra drip off. Finally, press it into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture until it’s nicely coated.
6. Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough.
7. Bake for Perfection
Once browned, transfer the chicken to your prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures it’s perfectly cooked through.
8. Serve and Garnish
After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh touch!
Enjoy your homemade Longhorn Steakhouse-style Parmesan Chicken! It’s guaranteed to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more moisture and flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which may take a few extra minutes compared to chicken breasts.
What Can I Use Instead of Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, you can easily make your own! Mix plain breadcrumbs with dried herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme. Alternatively, you can use Panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and coating in advance, then assemble just before cooking. Keep the coated chicken in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great meal prep option for busy weeknights!
