Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a tasty dish that features juicy, tender chicken breasts topped with a crispy, golden parmesan crust. This chicken is baked to perfection with a blend of parmesan cheese, herbs, and a little garlic, making every bite flavorful and satisfying. It’s a great meal when you want something simple but special, with a nice crunchy texture that balances the tender meat inside.
I love making this Parmesan Chicken at home because it feels like a restaurant dish without the fuss. One trick I use is to press the parmesan mixture firmly onto the chicken so it sticks well and gets that perfect crispy edge. It’s always a crowd-pleaser when friends come over because it’s familiar but still a little fancy, and it pairs well with so many sides. The cheesy crust adds such a comforting touch that makes the chicken feel extra special.
My favorite way to serve this dish is with a side of steamed veggies and some warm garlic bread. It’s a simple combo that lets the chicken shine. I’ve found that this meal is great for both weekday dinners and casual weekend get-togethers. Every time I make it, I get a little happy thinking about how much everyone enjoys that crispy parmesan topping and juicy chicken underneath.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless breasts helps the chicken cook evenly and quickly. Pounding them to an even thickness keeps the texture tender. If you prefer, thighs work too—they stay juicier but cook a bit differently.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds deep, nutty flavor and crunch to the crust. Pre-grated cheese often contains fillers and won’t crisp as nicely. If needed, Pecorino Romano is a nice substitute for a sharper taste.
Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: These add flavor and crunch. If you don’t have Italian seasoning breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs mixed with a little Italian herbs and garlic powder work well. For a gluten-free option, try crushed gluten-free crackers.
Eggs and milk: The egg wash helps the cheese and crumbs stick to the chicken. You can swap milk for a dairy-free option like almond or soy milk if needed.
Olive oil: Use a good quality olive oil for searing and crisping the crust. If you want a milder flavor, vegetable oil or avocado oil are great alternatives and tolerate high heat well.
How Do You Get the Parmesan Crust Crispy and Well-Adhered?
Getting a perfect crust means making sure the cheese and breadcrumbs stick well and crisp up nicely:
- Pat chicken dry before dredging to help coatings stick better.
- After dipping in egg wash, press the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken. Don’t just coat it lightly.
- Use an oven-safe skillet so you can sear in oil on the stove, creating a crispy base, then finish baking in the oven for juicy, fully cooked meat.
- Cook over medium heat—not too hot—to avoid burning the crust before the chicken cooks through.
Following these steps helps you enjoy a crunchy, flavorful crust every time with tender chicken inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet – I prefer this for searing and baking; it cooks evenly and reduces dishes.
- Meat mallet or rolling pin – helps pound the chicken evenly for a tender, uniform cook.
- Shallow bowls – for the egg wash and Parmesan breadcrumb coating, making the process easier.
- Handling tongs or a fork – to turn the chicken without disturbing the coating.
- Cooking thermometer – ensures the chicken cooks to the perfect temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different cheesy flavor.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a little heat.
- Mix in chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the crust for extra aroma.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for tangy contrast.
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 3 tbsp olive oil (or more for frying)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal will take about 10 minutes to prepare plus 20 minutes to cook. Most of the time is hands-on with frying and baking, so plan for around 30 minutes total from start to serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay tender.
2. Make the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs with the milk until smooth.
3. Bread the Chicken:
Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, fully coating both sides. Then press the chicken firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s coated well and the crust sticks tightly.
4. Cook and Bake:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts carefully and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Then, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches 165°F (74°C) inside.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a nice color and fresh flavor. Serve your Parmesan Chicken hot with mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, steamed broccoli, or any other favorite sides you like.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before preparing. Pat the chicken dry to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating stick better.
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Simply substitute the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure any seasoning blends you use are also gluten-free.
Can I Prepare the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bread the chicken and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready, cook as directed, adjusting the bake time slightly if chicken is cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stove to preserve the crispy crust.
