Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

If you’ve ever dined at Longhorn Steakhouse, you’ve likely come across their famous Parmesan Chicken. It’s crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-flavorful—a true comfort food classic. The best part? You don’t have to visit the restaurant to enjoy this mouthwatering dish. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step recipe for recreating the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this dish is sure to impress.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Now that you’re familiar with what makes Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken so irresistible, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of preparing it at home. Don’t worry; it’s easier than you might think! With a few simple steps, you’ll have crispy, cheesy chicken ready to devour. Here’s everything you need to know.

1. Preheating the Oven and Preparing the Baking Dish

The first step in making Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is to get your oven ready. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C), so it’s nice and hot by the time your chicken is ready to bake.

While the oven is heating up, take a baking dish and lightly grease it with olive oil. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and help it crisp up beautifully. Make sure the dish is large enough to hold the chicken breasts in a single layer, giving them enough space to bake evenly.

2. Preparing the Coating Mixtures

This next step is where the magic happens! The crispy, cheesy coating is what gives Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken its signature crunch and flavor. You’ll need three shallow dishes to prepare the coating.

• First dish: Add 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour. This helps the egg mixture stick to the chicken.
• Second dish: Whisk together 2 large eggs and 1/4 cup of milk. This creates a nice, smooth coating for the chicken.
• Third dish: Combine 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of bread crumbs, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. This blend is what gives the chicken its flavorful, crispy crust.

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, swap out the regular bread crumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. They work just as well, and your dish will still be just as delicious!

3. Dredging and Coating the Chicken

Now, it’s time to coat your chicken breasts. Here’s how to do it:

• Start by taking 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Dredge each piece in the flour, making sure it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
• Next, dip the floured chicken breasts into the egg mixture. Coat both sides thoroughly.
• Finally, press the chicken into the Parmesan-bread crumb mixture, making sure each breast is fully covered. Don’t rush this step! The more thoroughly you coat the chicken, the crunchier and cheesier the final result will be.

4. Searing the Chicken Before Baking

For that extra crispy crunch, we’ll be searing the chicken before baking it. Here’s how to do it:

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once the oil is hot, place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. This step locks in moisture and gives the chicken that golden, crispy exterior.

Using high-quality olive oil is essential here, as it not only enhances the flavor but also adds to the crispiness. Trust us, it’s worth it!

Adding the Cheese Topping and Baking the Chicken

You’ve done the hard work—now it’s time to add the finishing touch and bake the chicken to golden perfection. This part is where the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken really starts to shine, thanks to that cheesy topping.

5. Adding the Cheese Topping

Once your chicken breasts are perfectly seared, it’s time to pile on the cheesy goodness. This is the moment when the Parmesan and mozzarella take the dish from great to unforgettable!

• In a small bowl, mix together:
  • 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cloves of minced garlic

This blend of cheese creates the perfect gooey, cheesy crust. The Parmesan adds a salty, nutty bite, while the mozzarella melts beautifully, making the topping rich and satisfying. The garlic gives it an extra burst of flavor, making it even more irresistible.

• Once the chicken breasts are seared, generously sprinkle the cheese mixture over the top of each chicken breast. Don’t be shy—make sure each piece is well-covered with cheese. It’ll melt into a golden, bubbling, cheesy crust when it bakes.

6. Baking the Chicken Until Golden and Cooked Through

Now that your chicken is seared and topped with that dreamy cheese mixture, it’s time to bake it. The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C) by now, so it’s ready for action.

• Place the chicken breasts in the greased baking dish and transfer them to the oven.
• Bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked through but still juicy and tender.

To make sure your chicken is cooked perfectly, we recommend using a meat thermometer. It’s the best way to avoid overcooking and drying out the chicken. If you’re not sure how to use one, it’s pretty simple: just insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, and when it hits 165°F, you’re good to go.

• Once your chicken is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken nice and moist.

Now, your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is ready to be devoured! The crust will be golden and crispy, while the cheese topping will be beautifully melted and gooey. Trust us, it’s a treat you won’t forget!

 Cooking Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Parmesan Chicken

Ready to take your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken to the next level? Here are some helpful cooking tips and tricks to make sure your dish turns out just like the restaurant version—crispy, cheesy, and perfectly cooked every time!

Crispy Crust Tips

One of the standout features of this dish is that golden, crunchy crust. If you want to achieve that perfect crispiness, here’s a simple tip:

• Double-Dip for Extra Crunch: To get that signature crunchy coating, try double-dipping your chicken in the egg and Parmesan-bread crumb mixture. First, dip the chicken in the egg, then the bread crumbs. After that, dip it back into the egg and then the crumbs again. This extra layer will fry up even crispier, giving you that irresistible crunch.
• Don’t Rush the Searing: Take your time when searing the chicken. It’s tempting to rush this step, but giving the chicken 3-4 minutes per side over medium-high heat ensures a golden, crispy exterior without burning the breading.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: The key to getting a flavorful, crunchy crust is using freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting properly and can affect the final texture.

Avoid Overcooking

We’ve all been there: You’re so excited to eat, but the chicken ends up dry. To keep your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken juicy and tender, here’s what you need to do:

• Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This prevents overcooking while making sure it’s safe to eat.
• Rest the Chicken: After removing the chicken from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.

Perfect Cheese Melt

Getting that gooey, melty cheese topping is the hallmark of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, but there’s a trick to keeping it just right:

• Cover with Foil if Necessary: If the cheese starts browning too quickly while baking, loosely cover the chicken with aluminum foil. This helps the chicken cook through without burning the cheese. You can remove the foil in the last few minutes to let the cheese brown to perfection.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: For the best melt and flavor, always grate your own Parmesan and mozzarella. Pre-shredded cheese often contains preservatives that can affect the texture and meltability. Freshly grated cheese will give you a smoother melt and richer flavor.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about making the perfect Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken? You’re not alone! Here are the most common FAQs to help you cook, store, and enjoy this dish like a pro.

1. Can I freeze Longhorn Parmesan Chicken?

 Yes! You can freeze cooked Parmesan Chicken for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or foil, place them in an airtight container, and store them in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

2. What type of Parmesan cheese works best for this recipe?

 Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese! Pre-shredded Parmesan contains anti-caking agents, which affect its melting and texture. Fresh Parmesan melts better, giving you a rich, nutty flavor.

3. Can I substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs?

 Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) internally.

4. How do I prevent my chicken from drying out?

 The key to juicy chicken is not overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken from the oven once it reaches 165°F. Also, resting the chicken for 5 minutes before slicing helps retain moisture.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

 Yes! Simply substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The rest of the recipe remains the same!

6. What sides go well with Parmesan Chicken?

 The best pairings include:

• Garlic mashed potatoes – Creamy and flavorful!
• Steamed veggies – Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans balance the richness.
• Caesar salad – A crisp, refreshing contrast to the cheesy chicken.
• Buttered pasta – Simple, yet delicious with fresh herbs.

7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

✔ Yes! You can coat and sear the chicken a few hours ahead, then refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add the cheese topping right before baking to keep it fresh.

8. How do I get the crispiest crust?

 For extra crispy chicken, try these tips:

• Double dip in the egg and breadcrumb mixture for a thicker coating.
• Use a wire rack when baking to allow air circulation.
• Sear in olive oil before baking for the perfect golden crust.

9. Can I air-fry Longhorn Parmesan Chicken instead of baking?

 Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method gives you an extra crispy texture with less oil.

More Chicken Recipes to Try

If you’re a fan of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, you’re in for a treat! Why stop at just one amazing chicken recipe when you can try so many more?

Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken

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