If you’re a fan of Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Chicken, you’re in for a treat! This recipe brings the restaurant-quality dish to your kitchen, allowing you to recreate the crispy, cheesy, and flavorful chicken that has become a fan favorite. With its golden-brown crust coated in Parmesan cheese and herbs, tender chicken breast inside, and a rich marinara topping, this dish is perfect for a hearty dinner or special occasion.
The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Follow along, and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Coating : The combination of flour, egg, and Parmesan breadcrumbs creates a crunchy, flavorful crust.
- Juicy Chicken : Pounding the chicken breasts ensures even cooking and keeps them moist and tender.
- Versatile : Serve it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Customizable : Adjust seasoning levels or swap ingredients (e.g., gluten-free breadcrumbs) to suit your preferences.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs , beaten
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated works best )
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper , to taste
- Olive oil or vegetable oil , for frying
For Topping:
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade )
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves , for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch thick). This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station
- In three shallow bowls, set up your breading station:
- Bowl 1 : Add the flour.
- Bowl 2 : Beat the eggs.
- Bowl 3 : Combine the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and dried parsley.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Finally, press the chicken into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated on all sides. Gently pat the crumbs onto the chicken to help them adhere.
3. Cook the Chicken
- Heat a thin layer of olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if needed.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a baking dish.
4. Add Toppings and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
- Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece of chicken, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the marinara sauce.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes , or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
5. Garnish and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Parmesan Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Pasta : Serve over spaghetti or fettuccine tossed with extra marinara sauce for a classic Italian-inspired meal.
- Vegetables : Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a Caesar salad adds freshness and balance.
- Potatoes : Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted red potatoes complement the dish perfectly.
- Wine Pairing : A glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors of the dish.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Parmesan : Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides better flavor and texture compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Don’t Skip Pounding : Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan : Frying in batches helps maintain the crispiness of the coating.
- Make Ahead : Bread the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before cooking.
- Gluten-Free Option : Substitute almond flour for regular flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Final Thoughts
This Longhorn Steakhouse-Style Parmesan Chicken is a show-stopping dish that’s sure to impress. With its crispy Parmesan coating, tender chicken breast, and melty mozzarella topping, it captures the essence of indulgent comfort food while being surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something delicious, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.
So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and bring the flavors of Longhorn Steakhouse to your table. Enjoy every bite of this cheesy, crispy masterpiece!
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