Oh, how I remember the first time I savored Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken! It was one of those chilly evenings when I sought warmth both on my plate and in my heart. Family gathered around the table, laughter filled the air, and the irresistible aroma of crispy chicken mingled with melted cheese wafted from the kitchen. The moment I took my first bite, I was transported into a world of crunchy, cheesy deliciousness, with savory garlic notes dancing on my palate. This dish knows how to hug you from the inside out, becoming a staple in my cooking repertoire, and I just know it will find a cozy home in your kitchen as well!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps, even the novice cook can whip up this dish!
- Quick Cooking Time: On the table in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor-Packed: A delightful mix of cheese, garlic, and Italian seasonings creates a symphony of taste.
- Healthier Comfort Food: Tender chicken baked to perfection is a comforting yet guilt-free indulgence.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Serve this at a family gathering or dinner party, and watch hands go up for seconds!
Recipe Snapshot
| Category | Cuisine | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Yield | Skill Level |
|——————-|——————|———–|———–|———–|——-|————–|
| Main Course | American/Italian | 15 mins | 25 mins | 40 mins | 4 | Easy |
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless skinless: The star of the show! Juicy and tender, this is your canvas for all the delicious flavors.
- 1 cup bread crumbs: Adds crunch to the outside, giving that perfect texture we all crave.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a nutty and salty bite that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Because what’s better than one cheese? Two cheeses bringing gooey goodness!
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This helps the breading stick perfectly and creates that beautiful crispy exterior.
- 2 large eggs: The binder for our crust, ensuring each bite delivers that satisfying crunch.
- 1/4 cup milk: A splash of creaminess to the egg mixture; it works its magic in the coating process!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of flavor that elevates the dish to comfort food heaven.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that turns a simple dish into a culinary delight.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just the right amount to enhance all the flavors!
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A gentle kick of heat that brings everything together.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For that array of lovely golden brown goodness both in flavor and color.
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
Preheat Your Oven
First thing’s first—preheat your oven to 375°F. A warm oven already sets the cozy tone for the meal ahead!
Mix the Breading
In a shallow dish, combine your bread crumbs, half the grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Just let those delicious scents begin to mingle, anticipating the crunch to come!
Prepare the Egg Mixture
In another dish, beat the eggs with the milk until smooth. The creamy texture is going to be the perfect partner for our crunchy coating!
Flour it Up!
Place the flour in a third dish, a blank canvas waiting for the chicken. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, coating it lightly and shaking off the excess—this step adds a fabulous layer of crunch.
Dredge & Coat
Now dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off, before rolling it generously in the breadcrumb mixture. This makes for a glorious, golden crust!
Sizzle in Olive Oil
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When it’s hot (you can test by dropping a few crumbs in—if they sizzle, you’re ready!), cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until beautifully golden brown. You’ll want your kitchen to smell amazing at this point!
Transfer to Baking Dish
Once they’re golden, carefully transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish.
Cheese Topping Delight
In a small bowl, mix the remaining Parmesan with mozzarella and minced garlic. Top each piece of chicken with this cheesy bliss, covering them like a soft blanket.
Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Your kitchen will be awash with a warming aroma that will have everyone gathering at the table!
Pro Tips for Success
- Give the chicken a little pat to ensure the coating sticks, for maximum crunch impact!
- To prevent drying, cook only until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- If you want an extra cheesy topping, feel free to sprinkle a bit more mozzarella!
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for an even heartier crunch!
- Let the chicken rest for a bit before serving to lock in those delicious juices.
Flavor Variations
- Different Cheeses: Try swapping out mozzarella for provolone or gouda for a unique flavor twist!
- Add Spice: Feel adventurous? A pinch of red pepper flakes in the breadcrumb mixture could add a delightful kick.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be added to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra garden-fresh touch.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a lovely side salad for some freshness, or serve alongside garlic mashed potatoes for ultimate comfort. A crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea can complement all those flavors beautifully! For a fun twist, plate the chicken with a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prep the chicken up to the baking step! Just keep them in the fridge covered until you’re ready to bake. Stored properly in an airtight container, cooked chicken lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge.
Leftovers
Oh, the joy of leftovers! Slice and add leftover chicken to a salad, or toss it in a pasta dish with your favorite veggies and sauces. You can even turn it into a delicious chicken sandwich the next day!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It keeps well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to devour, thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes), giving that crispy crust a second life! If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works, but be cautious as it might not retain that fabulous crunch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully for this recipe and can add extra juiciness.
What can I serve with Parmesan Chicken?
Great options include roasted vegetables, pasta, rice, or a fresh salad!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Sure! Swap each of the breadcrumbs and flour for gluten-free alternatives.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer! When it hits 165°F, it’s safe to eat, juicy, and tender.
Final Thoughts
Cooking is all about love—love for food, love for those we share it with, and a sprinkle of joy in every ingredient. I hope this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken brings happiness and warmth to your home just like it has for mine. Remember, it’s not just about the meal; it’s about creating memories around the table. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite, my friends! Happy cooking!
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts, boneless skinless Juicy and tender, this is your canvas for all the delicious flavors.
- 1 cup bread crumbs Adds crunch to the outside, giving that perfect texture we all crave.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a nutty and salty bite that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Two cheeses bringing gooey goodness!
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Helps the breading stick perfectly.
- 2 large eggs The binder for our crust.
- 1/4 cup milk A splash of creaminess to the egg mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds a punch of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A fragrant blend that enhances the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Brings everything together.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For a lovely golden brown goodness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a shallow dish, combine your bread crumbs, half the grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- In another dish, beat the eggs with the milk until smooth.
- Place the flour in a third dish, and lightly coat each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture.
Cooking
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the golden chicken breasts to a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the remaining Parmesan with mozzarella and minced garlic, and top each chicken piece with this mixture.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.