Name: Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, boneless skinless.; 1 cup bread crumbs.; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese.; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour.; 2 large eggs.; 1/4 cup milk.; 2 cloves garlic, minced.; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.; 1/2 teaspoon salt.; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.; 2 tablespoons olive oil.

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This homemade Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with perfectly crispy breaded chicken topped with a delicious melted cheese blend. It's a family-friendly dinner that combines the comforting flavors of Italian-American cuisine with the satisfaction of making a popular restaurant dish in your own kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Parmesan Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings the Longhorn Steakhouse experience home without the restaurant price tag. The chicken turns out tender on the inside with a satisfying, crispy exterior, while the cheese topping creates that irresistible, gooey finish. It's impressive enough for guests but simple enough for weeknight dinners. The recipe uses straightforward ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, and the technique of pan-searing before baking ensures perfect texture every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts form the foundation of this dish, providing lean protein that becomes incredibly tender when properly prepared. Look for evenly-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking.

Bread crumbs create that signature crispy coating. You can use store-bought or make your own from day-old bread for extra texture and flavor.

Parmesan cheese adds both savory depth to the coating and richness to the topping. Its nutty, salty profile is key to achieving that authentic Longhorn flavor.

Mozzarella cheese brings that stretchy, creamy element that makes the topping so satisfying. It melts beautifully and creates that instagram-worthy cheese pull.

All-purpose flour serves as the first layer in the breading process, helping the egg mixture adhere to the chicken. It creates a smooth base for the crumb coating.

Eggs and milk combine to create a binding mixture that helps the breadcrumb coating stick to the chicken. This mixture adds moisture and richness to the final dish.

Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth. Fresh minced garlic provides the best flavor, but granulated garlic works in a pinch.

Italian seasoning blends multiple herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to give the chicken that classic Italian-American flavor profile. You can adjust the amount based on your preference.

Salt and pepper are essential for bringing out the flavors of all the other ingredients. Don't skip these simple but crucial seasonings.

Olive oil helps achieve that golden-brown crust when pan-searing the chicken. It adds a subtle flavor that complements the other Mediterranean ingredients.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a shallow dish, combine the bread crumbs, half of the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, mixing thoroughly. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Place the flour in a third dish, creating a three-station breading setup.
Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Finally, press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure both sides are evenly covered with the seasoned crumbs.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. This step is just to create a crispy exterior; the chicken will finish cooking in the oven.
Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the remaining Parmesan cheese with the shredded mozzarella and minced garlic. Sprinkle this cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 4 servings, with each serving consisting of one cheese-topped chicken breast. It takes approximately 20 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, for a total time of 45 minutes from start to finish. This makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Variations

Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Add ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture and sprinkle a few more on top of the cheese before baking for a dish with a kick.

Herbed Parmesan Chicken: Enhance the herb profile by adding 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped basil and parsley to both the breadcrumb mixture and sprinkled over the finished dish.

Mushroom Parmesan Chicken: Sauté 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms with 1 tablespoon of butter, then add them on top of the chicken before adding the cheese layer.

Lighter Version: Use chicken cutlets instead of full breasts, reduce the cheese by half, and spray with olive oil instead of pan-frying for a lighter alternative.

Marinara Addition: Spread 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce on each chicken breast before adding the cheese for a chicken parmesan-inspired variation.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before storing.

Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Label with the date before freezing.

Reheating in the Oven: For the best results, reheat refrigerated Parmesan Chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted again. If reheating from frozen, add an extra 10-15 minutes.

Microwave Method: For a quicker option, microwave individual portions on 70% power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through. Be aware that microwave reheating may make the breading less crispy.

Make-Ahead Tips: You can bread the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook. You can also fully cook the dish, cool it, and refrigerate, then reheat when ready to serve.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The most reliable method is to use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken breast. It should register 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part - the meat should be completely white with no pink areas.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They tend to be more moist and flavorful but will have a slightly higher fat content. Adjust cooking time as needed, as thighs may cook faster than breasts.

What can I serve with this Parmesan Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta tossed in marinara or butter and herbs, a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. For a lower-carb option, serve with zucchini noodles or a hearty salad.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always check that your seasonings and cheese are certified gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare this dish in advance for a party?

Yes! You can bread the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. For the best results, complete the searing step just before guests arrive, then add the cheese and bake when ready to serve.

Why is my breading falling off during cooking?

This usually happens when the chicken is too wet before breading or when the oil isn't hot enough. Pat chicken dry before starting the breading process, and make sure your oil is properly heated before adding the chicken.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

While convenient, pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent proper melting. For the best cheesy top, shred your own mozzarella and grate fresh Parmesan if possible.

Is there a way to make this healthier?

Try using whole wheat breadcrumbs, reducing the amount of cheese, or using cooking spray instead of oil for pan-searing. You can also use egg whites instead of whole eggs in the binding mixture.

What's the best way to flatten chicken breasts for even cooking?

Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan, working from the center outward until the chicken is an even thickness of about ½ inch.

Can I add a sauce to this recipe?

Absolutely! A simple marinara served alongside or a light lemon butter sauce drizzled over the top complements the Parmesan chicken beautifully. Just add the sauce after baking to maintain the crispy texture.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken brings restaurant quality to your dinner table with minimal effort. The combination of crispy, seasoned breading and melty cheese creates a dish that's both comforting and impressive. By following the essential step of searing before baking, you'll achieve that perfect textural contrast between the crunchy exterior and tender, juicy chicken inside. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply elevating your weeknight dinner rotation, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With easy modifications and make-ahead options, it's a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your dietary needs and schedule.