Easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn Copycat

If you have ever craved the perfectly crispy, cheesy, and flavorful chicken served at Longhorn Steakhouse, you’re in for a treat! This easy-to-follow recipe for Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat) lets you recreate that magic right in your own kitchen. With a golden, crunchy Parmesan crust and tender juicy chicken inside, this dish is truly a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Get ready to enjoy restaurant-quality comfort food made simple and delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy perfection: The Parmesan crust bakes to golden, crunchy goodness that adds an irresistible texture to every bite.
• Simple ingredients: You only need pantry staples and fresh chicken breasts, making this recipe quick and budget-friendly.
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore the familiar flavors and satisfying comfort without eating out.
• Versatile meal: Easy to pair with salads, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies, so you can customize your dinner every time.
• Copycat brilliance: Enjoy that Longhorn Steakhouse favorite any night of the week with this foolproof recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat) recipe is its simplicity. Each component plays a role in building flavor, moisture, and that signature crispy crust you’re craving.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep the dish lean and juicy while ensuring even cooking.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan creates the rich, nutty, crispy coating essential to this recipe.
• Panko breadcrumbs: These add extra crunch and lightness to the crust, preventing it from becoming too dense.
• Garlic powder & Italian seasoning: These classic spices pack a punch of warm, savory flavor with minimal effort.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a perfect binder to help the crust stick to the chicken.
• Olive oil or melted butter: Brushed on top for golden color and added richness without overpowering the natural taste.
• Salt and pepper: Simple yet crucial for seasoning the chicken throughout.

Variations for Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat)

Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. The great thing about Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat) is how easy it is to customize while still tasting amazing.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for a subtle heat.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep it safe for gluten sensitivities.
• Herbaceous flair: Toss in fresh chopped parsley, basil, or thyme into the crust for a fresh herbal note.
• Cheesy variety: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or add a tablespoon of grated mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
• Chicken alternatives: Try this crust on thin pork chops, turkey cutlets, or even eggplant slices for a vegetarian spin.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat)

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well. If your breasts are thick, slice them horizontally to create even, thinner pieces that cook more evenly.

Step 2: Make the Coating Mix

In a bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This dry mixture forms the flavorful crust.

Step 3: Set Up the Dredging Station

Whisk eggs in a separate shallow dish. Dip each chicken breast first into the egg wash, letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly on all sides.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil or melted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Gently add the coated chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and the crust is crispy. Alternatively, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes for a hands-off approach.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes on a wire rack or plate before slicing. This keeps the juices locked inside and the crust crispy. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat)!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat)

• Dry chicken well: Moisture is the enemy of a crisp crust, so pat breasts completely dry before breading.
• Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese won’t crisp or flavor the same—freshly grated is best.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches helps each piece brown evenly without steaming.
• Rest after cooking: Allowing the chicken to rest helps juices redistribute and the crust to stay crunchy.
• Optimize oven method: If baking, place chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet to let air circulate and keep crust crisp.

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat)

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a wedge of lemon for zest, or a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil elevates the dish and adds fresh brightness right before serving.

Side Dishes

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple garden salad for a balanced, satisfying meal every time.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice and serve over a bed of garlic butter rice, or atop lightly dressed arugula with sun-dried tomatoes for a restaurant-style presentation that impresses without fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, maintaining quality and freshness for easy next-day meals.

Freezing

Wrap cooked pieces individually in plastic wrap and freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat oven-baked chicken in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through to keep the crust crisp. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra moisture, but adjust cooking times slightly to ensure thorough cooking.

What’s the best way to get the crust crispy?

Drying the chicken, using fresh Parmesan, and ensuring enough heat during cooking are key to achieving that perfect crunchy crust.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Definitely! This recipe features familiar flavors and textures that most kids enjoy, making it a great family-friendly dinner option.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a great alternative to pan-frying, offering a hands-off method with less oil—using a wire rack helps maintain crispiness.

How do I store leftovers to prevent soggy crust?

Cool the chicken completely before storing in an airtight container, and reheat in the oven rather than the microwave to preserve the crunch.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wished you could bring a little Longhorn Steakhouse magic into your own kitchen, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat) is your answer. It’s simple, delicious, and full of the crispy, cheesy goodness that makes this dish a long-standing favorite. Grab your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready for a homemade dinner that feels like a special night out—without leaving your house!

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