This easy Parmesan chicken gives you that tasty Longhorn Steakhouse flavor right at home! It features crispy breading and melty cheese that make every bite delightful.
I love how simple it is to prepare this dish! Just coat the chicken, bake it, and enjoy a mouthwatering meal. Pair it with a salad for some extra crunch. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. You could also use chicken thighs for a juicier option or even cutlets if you’re short on time.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs give great flavor. If you’re gluten-free, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour for a lighter coating.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan has the best flavor, but pre-grated works too. If you want a dairy-free option, consider using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness, but olive oil can be a healthier alternative. It still provides a nice amount of crispiness.
How Do You Get the Perfect Breaded Chicken?
Getting that perfect breading on your chicken is key! Here’s how you can make it great:
- Start with dry chicken—pat it down with paper towels to remove moisture.
- Use three-step breading (flour, egg, breadcrumbs) for a nice, thick coating.
- Don’t rush the breading process: make sure each piece is fully coated, and shake off any excess.
- Let them rest for a few minutes before baking. This helps the breading stick better.
- Drizzling butter (or oil) on top before baking improves crispiness!
Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Style Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and 25-30 minutes to cook. So, in less than an hour, you can have a scrumptious meal ready for the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
To ensure even cooking, take each chicken breast and flatten them to a uniform thickness. You can easily do this by placing them in a plastic bag and gently pounding them with a meat mallet or rolling pin.
3. Set Up the Breading Station:
Get three shallow bowls ready for the breading process. In the first bowl, pour the flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water. In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper.
4. Bread the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken for a nice, thick coating!
5. Arrange the Chicken:
Place the breaded chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. To add extra crispness, drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of each piece of chicken.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake the chicken uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’re looking for the chicken to be cooked through and the coating a lovely golden brown.
7. Add the Cheese:
Once the chicken is cooked, take the dish out of the oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each breast. This is where the magic happens—who doesn’t love gooey cheese?
8. Final Bake:
Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s hard to resist that cheesy goodness!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
After taking it out of the oven, let the chicken cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Longhorn Steakhouse style Parmesan chicken with a crisp side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal!
FAQ
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be a great substitute as they tend to be juicier. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless, and adjust the cooking time if needed, as they may take a little longer to cook thoroughly.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour and Italian-style breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives such as almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. The flavor will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help maintain the crispiness of the coating!
Can I Cook This Chicken in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the breaded chicken for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them to ensure they are golden and cooked through, and enjoy a healthier, crispy version!
