If you’ve ever yearned for a dish that combines crunch, cheesy goodness, and tender chicken all in one bite, then the Irresistibly Crispy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brilliantly captures the magic of a perfectly crisped breaded chicken breast, layered with savory Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, delivering a flavor-packed, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from your favorite steakhouse. Once you try it, you’ll be craving this golden, crispy perfection at every meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients together for this recipe is refreshingly straightforward, yet each element plays a crucial role in creating that celebrated texture and flavor. From the crunchy panko to the fragrant Italian seasoning, every ingredient adds a special touch that makes this chicken stand out.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The lean, tender foundation of your dish that absorbs all those wonderful flavors.
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs: Provides that essential crisp and light crunch that makes each bite unforgettable.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, salty depth and helps bind the crust to the chicken beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to add gooey, cheesy indulgence inside.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Creates a base layer helping the egg mixture stick for an even coating.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as the glue for the breading and cheese mixture.
- 1/4 cup milk: Lightens the egg mixture, ensuring a smoother dip and better adhesion.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brightens the dish with aromatic warmth and subtle bite.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant herbaceous note that’s essential to the chicken’s taste profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of subtle spice.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a golden, evenly crisped finish when cooking the chicken.
How to Make Irresistibly Crispy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Seasoning Mix
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s perfectly heated to finish off the chicken after stovetop crisping. In a shallow dish, blend your panko bread crumbs with half of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the Italian seasoning for a herb-spiked, cheesy coating that will give your chicken that iconic crunch and flavor profile.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Grab another bowl and beat together the eggs and milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This wet mixture is key because it’ll help your coating stick flawlessly to the chicken, creating the ideal base for the breadcrumb crunch.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Next, rinse and pat dry each chicken breast, then dust them lightly with the all-purpose flour. The flour acts as a primer, helping the egg wash cling around the pieces for that perfect sandwich of flavors.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Dip each floured chicken breast into the egg and milk mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, press them into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, making sure every inch is covered to build that irresistibly crispy crust fans adore.
Step 5: Pan-Sear for Golden Crisp
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the coated chicken breasts carefully into the pan and cook each side for about 3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. This step locks in all the flavor while creating the signature crust you’re aiming for.
Step 6: Add Mozzarella and Bake
Transfer the seared chicken breasts onto a baking sheet. Top each piece generously with shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese. Then, slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melting and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
How to Serve Irresistibly Crispy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
This chicken is a showstopper on its own, but a scatter of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of color and that fresh herbaceous note that balances the richness of the cheese wonderfully. For a little extra zing, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Side Dishes
To complement the hearty crunch and cheesy indulgence, serve this chicken alongside a crisp Caesar salad or garlic roasted asparagus. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic bread also make excellent companions, creating a full comfort-food experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken into elegant strips and arrange over a bed of spaghetti tossed in light marinara sauce. This presentation transforms your dish into a delightful Italian-inspired dinner guaranteed to impress guests or family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cool the chicken completely then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy that crispy goodness again soon.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken breasts by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen, they maintain their quality for up to 2 months, making this a great meal prep option.
Reheating
The best way to bring back that irresistible crisp is by reheating the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crunchy texture intact — the oven’s dry heat is key to reviving that signature crust.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Parmesan and mozzarella are the classic combo creating that Longhorn Steakhouse flavor, feel free to experiment with Asiago, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a unique twist. Just keep cheeses that melt well to maintain the gooey texture.
Is panko bread crumbs essential or can I use regular bread crumbs?
Panko is recommended because it gives that light, airy crunch which is central to this recipe, but if you only have regular bread crumbs, you can definitely use them. Just expect a slightly denser crust.
How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy inside?
Be sure not to overcook the chicken; using a meat thermometer to hit 165°F internal temperature is crucial. Also, the cheese topping helps keep moisture locked in, so don’t skip that step!
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour and bread crumbs for gluten-free alternatives and you’ll still enjoy that same delicious, crispy result.
What oil is best for cooking the chicken?
Olive oil works beautifully for its flavor and crisping ability, but you can also use avocado oil or any neutral oil with a high smoke point to get a perfect golden crust.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something incredibly satisfying about the Irresistibly Crispy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe that makes it a permanent favorite in my kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe promises rich flavors, mouthwatering textures, and that comforting feeling you crave from a truly great chicken dish. Give it a try and watch it become your go-to for any occasion!
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Irresistibly Crispy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Irresistibly Crispy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe offers a deliciously crunchy coating topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden perfection, it’s a family-friendly dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 pieces chicken breasts (boneless skinless)
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup bread crumbs (panko works well)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (reserved from 1 cup total)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Batter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Cooking Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken after pan-frying.
- Prepare Breading: In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Make Egg Mixture: In another bowl, beat the eggs and milk together until smooth. Add the minced garlic to this mixture and stir to combine the flavors.
- Dredge Chicken: Lightly coat each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the egg and milk mixture, followed by coating thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture ensuring an even layer.
- Pan-Fry Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until the coating is golden brown and crispy. This seals in juices and adds crunch.
- Bake in Oven: Transfer the browned chicken breasts to a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella evenly over each piece. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, cheese is melted, and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy Parmesan chicken warm as a satisfying main dish.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting quality.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crispiness but regular breadcrumbs can be used.
- Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
- If preferred, substitute olive oil with vegetable oil for frying.
- Check chicken internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
