Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a crispy, cheesy chicken dinner, and this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken delivers all the satisfaction of a restaurant-quality meal made easily at home. Juicy, breaded chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection, then topped with a blend of melty mozzarella and sharp Parmesan cheese, infused with garlic and baked until bubbling. It’s rich, savory, and deeply comforting—perfect for weeknights or an impressive weekend dinner.

This dish captures the essence of what makes Longhorn Steakhouse’s version so beloved: the tender chicken, the perfect crisp from seasoned breadcrumbs, and the indulgent cheesy topping. What makes it even better? You don’t need a deep fryer, complicated ingredients, or a chef’s degree to pull it off. With just a few pantry staples and a quick sear before baking, this recipe transforms humble chicken breasts into a standout meal that will impress any guest—or satisfy your own cravings.

Whether served with creamy garlic mashed potatoes, a Caesar salad, or crusty bread, this Parmesan Chicken is the kind of dish that instantly becomes a family favorite. Easy to prep, easier to love, and guaranteed to have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy Outside, Juicy Inside – Searing locks in moisture while giving the crust a golden, crunchy texture.
2. Cheesy Goodness – A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan creates that classic, melty, savory topping.
3. Restaurant-Quality at Home – Inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse’s iconic dish, no reservation needed.
4. Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples and fresh chicken for a quick, affordable dinner.
5. Versatile Pairings – Great with pasta, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh green salad.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• Seasoned bread crumbs
• Eggs (whisked with milk)
• All-purpose flour
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• Garlic (minced)
• Olive oil

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour and crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs and flour.
• Add Herbs: Mix Italian herbs like basil and oregano into the breadcrumb coating.
• Stuff It: Add a layer of pesto or sundried tomatoes under the cheese for extra flavor.
• Swap the Cheese: Try provolone or asiago for a twist on the traditional cheese topping.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Prepare three shallow dishes:

• One with flour
• One with the whisked eggs and a splash of milk
• One with the seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan mixed together

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Pound chicken breasts evenly for consistent cooking.
Dredge each piece in flour, dip in the egg wash, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Sear each piece of chicken for about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Garlic

Transfer seared chicken to the prepared baking dish.
Top each piece with shredded mozzarella, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and a bit of minced garlic.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Pound Evenly: Ensures even cooking and better texture.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds more flavor than pre-shredded.
• Don’t Skip the Sear: It gives the chicken a flavorful crust and locks in juices.
• Let It Rest: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
• Use an Oven Thermometer: Ensures accurate internal temperature for perfectly cooked chicken.

How to Serve

This Parmesan Chicken pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Rich and creamy to balance the savory chicken.
• Caesar Salad – Adds freshness and crunch to the meal.
• Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up any melted cheese and pan juices.
• Roasted Vegetables – For a lighter, colorful side option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Freeze individual portions by wrapping in foil or placing in freezer-safe containers.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Best Method: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
• Avoid the Microwave: It can make the breading soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, just make sure they’re boneless and pounded to an even thickness.

2. What kind of Parmesan should I use?

Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor and texture.

3. Can I bake the chicken without searing?

Yes, but searing adds flavor and a better crust.

4. What type of breadcrumbs work best?

Seasoned Italian breadcrumbs work great, but you can use panko for extra crunch.

5. How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).

6. Can I add marinara sauce like chicken Parmesan?

Absolutely! Spoon marinara over the chicken before adding the cheese for a saucy version.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to adapt it.

8. What can I use instead of mozzarella?

Try provolone, fontina, or even Monterey Jack for a twist.

9. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can bread and sear the chicken ahead, then bake just before serving.

10. How do I keep the crust crispy when reheating?

Reheat in the oven instead of the microwave to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

The Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a simple yet indulgent dish that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With crispy breading, juicy chicken, and melty cheese in every bite, this homemade version of a restaurant classic is sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting guests, this recipe delivers bold flavor, satisfying texture, and plenty of cheesy goodness—every single time.

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