As the seasons begin to shift and the comforting aroma of baked chicken fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia washing over me. One evening, after a whirlwind of takeout dinners, I craved something truly special—something that conjured the warmth of home-cooked meals. That’s when I concocted this Crispy Parmesan and Mozzarella Chicken, inspired by the indulgent flavors of Longhorn Steakhouse’s renowned dishes. The combination of crispy, seasoned breadcrumbs with a gooey mozzarella topping transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a comfort food delight that transports you straight to a cozy Italian-American eatery.
Whether you’re after a quick weeknight meal or a dish that will impress your friends and family, this recipe is versatile and incredibly easy to pull together. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, it satisfies those comfort food cravings while allowing for culinary creativity with various cheese swaps or spice additions. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that brings restaurant-style flair right into your home—I promise it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too!
Why is Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken a hit?
Comfort Food: Experience the joy of home-cooked meals with this heartwarming dish that’s sure to bring back fond memories.
Crispy Texture: The seasoned breadcrumbs give a satisfying crunch, while the tender chicken inside remains juicy and flavorful.
Cheesy Goodness: A generous layer of melted mozzarella ensures every bite is filled with richness and aroma.
Versatile Recipe: Easily adapt to your preferences with various cheese options, spice additions, or by swapping sides. Consider pairing with garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal!
Quick & Easy: Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal prep time and delivers maximum satisfaction.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and guests alike; this dish is perfect for dinner parties or casual gatherings.
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star of the dish; feel free to substitute chicken thighs for a juicier bite.
- All-Purpose Flour – Acts as a dredging agent; gluten-free flour can work as an alternative if needed.
- Large Eggs – Binds the coating to the chicken for that perfect crunch; buttermilk can be substituted for added flavor.
- Milk – Combines with eggs to create the coating mixture; any milk variant you have on hand will do.
For the Breading
- Bread Crumbs – Provides that irresistible crispy exterior; use panko for an extra crunch if desired.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Elevates the flavor profile; don’t hesitate to add more for a cheesier experience.
- Dried Italian Seasoning – Infuses aromatic depth; fresh herbs can offer a vibrant twist to the taste.
- Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust it according to your taste preference.
- Ground Black Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; freshly ground will provide the best flavor.
For the Topping
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Gives that gooey meltiness; feel free to swap with provolone or sharp cheddar for a twist.
- Minced Garlic – Offers a fragrant, savory note that complements the dish beautifully; fresh garlic is always recommended.
- Olive Oil – Used for searing the chicken to perfection; can use vegetable oil as a backup if needed.
This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe is packed with delicious flavors making it the perfect comfort food delight!
How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. This ensures the chicken won’t stick and allows it to crisp beautifully.
Combine breadcrumbs, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and ground black pepper in a shallow dish. Mix well for an even coating that offers robust flavor.
Whisk together the eggs and milk in another shallow dish. This egg mixture will act as a binder for the breadcrumbs, helping them adhere nicely to the chicken.
Prepare a third shallow dish with all-purpose flour for dredging. This step helps achieve that wonderful crispy texture once cooked.
Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, followed by pressing it into the breadcrumb mixture for a delightful outer crust.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy, which locks in all those delicious juices.
Transfer the seared chicken to your greased baking dish, ready for the oven. This step allows all the flavors to meld together as the chicken finishes cooking.
Mix the remaining Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, and minced garlic in a bowl. Sprinkle this cheesy blend generously over the chicken, ensuring every piece gets covered in this delicious topping.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the chicken is cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve your crispy chicken immediately with sides of your choice, like garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, for a comforting meal that satisfies every craving.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Variations
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create your perfect dish!
Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a fiery kick that excites the taste buds. The combination of heat and cheese elevates the dish into a flavor adventure!
Cheesy Blend: Experiment with a mix of cheeses like gouda, fontina, or a smoky gouda to deepen the richness and create a unique flavor profile. Each cheese brings its personality, leading to delightful surprises with every bite.
Herbal Infusion: Substitute dried Italian seasoning with fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, or oregano for a vibrant, aromatic finish. Fresh herbs not only brighten up the dish but also bring a garden-fresh taste right to your plate.
Crunchy Coating: Swap traditional breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes or potato chips for an extra crispy texture. This surprising twist creates an irresistible crunch that’s both satisfying and fun to eat.
Vegetarian Version: Use large slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms in place of chicken for a delectable plant-based alternative. Layer on the same cheesy topping for a hearty meal that everyone can enjoy!
Garlic Lovers: Boost the flavor by doubling the minced garlic or adding roasted garlic to the cheese mix for a rich and savory experience. This twist creates a heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth.
Lemon Zest: Grate in some lemon zest into the breadcrumb mixture for a bright and zesty flavor profile. The hint of citrus will add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese, uplifting each bite.
Savory Marinade: Consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite spices for added depth. Letting the chicken absorb these flavors before breading ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness.
Let your creativity shine through in the kitchen with these variations, ensuring your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is perfect for every occasion!
Expert Tips for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Optimal Searing: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding chicken to achieve that perfect crispy crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan for best results.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for an exciting twist on the classic Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken flavor.
Prep Ahead: For a quicker weeknight meal, bread and sear the chicken in advance and refrigerate. Add cheese right before baking for a fresh finish.
Moisture Check: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for juicy, perfectly cooked meat.
Breading Tips: If the coating isn’t sticking well, try adding a bit more egg or letting the dredged chicken sit for a few minutes before frying.
Storage Solutions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; to maintain crunchiness, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.
Make Ahead Options
These Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken by breading and searing it up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain crispiness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply sprinkle the cheesy topping of mozzarella and garlic just before baking. This method ensures your chicken remains juicy while achieving that delightful crispy texture when baked fresh after prep. By taking care of the initial steps a day ahead, you’ll save valuable time and have a mouthwatering meal waiting for you at the end of a hectic day!
How to Store and Freeze Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep it crispy, reheat in the oven instead of the microwave.
Freezer: You can freeze the breaded and seared chicken without the cheese for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes, ensuring the chicken remains juicy.
Prepping Ahead: You can prep Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken by breading and searing it in advance, then refrigerating without cheese until you’re ready to bake.
What to Serve with Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken?
Creating a complete meal around your crispy chicken will certainly impress your family or guests.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they make the perfect base to soak up the flavors of any sauce that forms during baking.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, caramelized veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a delightful crunch and a fresh contrast to the rich chicken.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp and refreshing, this classic salad pairs beautifully with the cheesy chicken, balancing flavors and textures in every bite.
- Creamy Polenta: Soft and velvety, polenta offers a delightful, cheesy undercurrent that complements the chicken’s crispy surface.
- Garlic Bread: Golden and crispy, this comforting side helps scoop up any melted cheese that might escape from your chicken.
- Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay harmonizes well with the dish’s richness, enhancing your dining experience with its crisp and refreshing taste.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with freshly baked cookies, a family favorite that always brings joy to the table.
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for boneless skinless chicken breasts, you can substitute chicken thighs if you’re after a juicier bite. Thighs will add more moisture and flavor, making for an extra delightful meal.
How can I ensure my chicken stays crispy after baking?
To maintain that glorious crunch, I recommend storing leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes instead of the microwave. This way, you’ll keep the crispy texture intact!
Can I freeze Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken?
Definitely! You can freeze the breaded (but unbaked) chicken without the cheese for up to 2 months. Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until fully cooked.
What should I do if the breading isn’t sticking to the chicken?
Very! If you find the coating isn’t adhering, try adding an extra egg to your mixture or allow the dredged chicken to sit for a few minutes before searing. This helps the breading bind beautifully during the cooking process, ensuring that crispy finish we all love.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Good question! For gluten sensitivity, you can easily substitute ordinary flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Additionally, if you’re watching your cheese intake, try reducing the amount of cheese or opting for lower-fat versions to suit your dietary needs while still enjoying that delicious flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
You can keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, if you want to maintain that crispiness, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, rather than using a microwave. This will help keep the chicken juicy and the crust crunchy, just like when it was freshly made!
Irresistibly Juicy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Combine breadcrumbs, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and ground black pepper in a shallow dish.
- Whisk together the eggs and milk in another shallow dish.
- Prepare a third shallow dish with all-purpose flour for dredging.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip into the egg mixture, then press into the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the seared chicken to the greased baking dish.
- Mix the remaining Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, and minced garlic in a bowl and sprinkle over the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and chicken is cooked through.
- Serve immediately with sides of your choice.
