This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a crispy and cheesy delight! With juicy chicken breast coated in flavorful breading, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
What I love most is how quick and easy it is to whip up at home! Pair it with some pasta or a fresh salad for a meal that feels fancy without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe. If you want a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend using Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for a great flavor boost. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better than pre-packaged. If you can’t find Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works as a tasty substitute.
Eggs: If you’re avoiding eggs, try a mixture of ground flaxseed and water or use unsweetened applesauce to help the breadcrumbs stick.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Chicken?
Getting that crunchy coating is key! Here are some tips to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly crispy:
- Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This helps it cook evenly and makes it tender.
- Don’t skip the dredging process! The flour helps the egg wash stick, and the egg helps the breadcrumbs adhere.
- When frying, don’t overcrowd the pan. This can lower the oil temperature and make the coating soggy.
- After frying, let the chicken rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil before baking.
With these tips, your Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken will be crispy, cheesy, and delicious!
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (extra for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 15–20 minutes in the oven. With frying and baking combined, you’ll need about 45 minutes total to whip up this hearty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and ready for the chicken once it’s cooked.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This step ensures they’ll cook evenly and turn out tender.
3. Set Up the Breading Station:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and water together. In a third bowl, combine the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Each of these bowls should be easily accessible for dredging!
4. Dredge the Chicken:
Take a chicken breast and first coat it in the flour mixture, making sure to shake off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture before finally coating it with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Press down lightly to ensure the breading sticks well. Repeat this step with all the chicken breasts.
5. Fry the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts. Fry each side for 3–4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. When they’re done, remove them from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels.
6. Bake with Cheese:
Now, line a baking sheet with the fried chicken breasts. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over each piece, followed by an extra 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if you’d like.
7. Final Bake:
We’re almost there! Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and let them bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your chicken is out of the oven, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it even tastier!
Enjoy your homemade Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, served alongside your favorite sides!
FAQ for Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful dish. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check the internal temperature to ensure they’re fully cooked (165°F or 74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Both options will yield delicious results!
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken by breading it and refrigerating it for a few hours before frying. Just be sure to cover the chicken well to prevent it from drying out. Fry it just before serving for the best texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, so the coating stays crispy!
