This copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is a crispy, cheesy delight that’s easy to make at home! It’s juicy chicken covered in a golden breadcrumb mixture and baked to perfection.
I love serving it with some pasta or veggies—it’s a hit every time! Plus, who wouldn’t want that cheesy goodness without making a restaurant reservation? 🐔🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Bone-in chicken can be used if preferred for a juicier result, but boneless is easier to work with. Just remember to adjust cooking times.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add flavor; however, you can use plain breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning for a similar taste. Panko breadcrumbs also work great for extra crunch!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use pre-grated or another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano, but the texture may differ slightly.
Butter: You can substitute with margarine or a dairy-free butter if preferred. Olive oil is also a lighter alternative if you’re looking to reduce saturated fat.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
The breading process is key to achieving that crispy exterior. Start by pounding the chicken to ensure even cooking and tenderness. Next, the three-step breading method—flour, egg wash, and breadcrumb coating—locks in flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Dust chicken with flour first to help the egg stick better.
- Make sure to press breadcrumbs onto the chicken firmly, ensuring a thick coat.
- Consider letting the breaded chicken sit for a few minutes before baking; this helps the coating adhere even better.
Drizzling with melted butter and olive oil enhances browning and adds richness. It’s all about that crispy, golden perfection! Enjoy your cooking!
Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Breading Station:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Baking:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep time and 25-30 minutes for baking, totaling about 40 minutes from start to finish. This makes it a quick and delicious meal option that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it preheating. This is important for ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice crispy texture!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them until they are about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and keeps them juicy!
3. Set Up the Breading Station:
Now, let’s create a breading station! In one shallow bowl, add the flour. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until combined. In a third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This is where the flavor magic happens!
4. Bread the Chicken:
Take one chicken breast and dip it into the flour first, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, coat it well with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks. Repeat with the rest of the chicken breasts until they’re all coated!
5. Get Ready to Bake:
Arrange the breaded chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter and olive oil evenly over the top of the chicken. This helps achieve that beautiful golden color and delicious flavor!
6. Bake Until Perfect:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through, and the outside should be golden and crispy. To be sure it’s done, check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Serve it up with your favorite sides, like creamy mashed potatoes or fresh steamed vegetables. Enjoy your homemade Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken!
This dish captures that delightful crispy and cheesy flavor you love from Longhorn Steakhouse, but with the convenience and comfort of home cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs for Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a juicier option. Just be mindful that thighs may require a bit more cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I Use Store-Bought Breadcrumbs?
Yes, store-bought breadcrumbs are perfectly fine! If you’re short on time, you can use any type of breadcrumbs you have on hand. For extra flavor, consider seasoning plain breadcrumbs with a little Italian seasoning or garlic powder.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure that any other ingredients, like sauces or seasonings, are also gluten-free.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for optimal texture, or you can use the microwave for a quicker option.
