This Parmesan chicken is crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious! It features juicy chicken breasts coated in crunchy Parmesan and breading, all baked to golden perfection.
I love serving it with a side of pasta or a fresh salad, making dinner feel fancy without all the fuss. It’s a family favorite that always brings smiles! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are perfect for quick cooking. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use chicken thighs, which are juicier. They may require an additional cooking time.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. It offers a similar salty richness. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast combined with breadcrumbs.
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add great flavor. You can make your own using plain breadcrumbs mixed with herbs and spices or use Panko for extra crunch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also available if you have dietary needs.
Olive Oil or Butter: Olive oil is my go-to for a healthier choice, while butter offers a richer taste. You can also use a cooking spray if you want to cut back on calories.
How Can I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
To really achieve that crispiness, focus on a few key steps. First, make sure to dry your chicken breasts thoroughly; moisture can lead to sogginess. The three-step coating process—flour, egg, then breadcrumbs—creates a lovely thick crust.
- Don’t skip drizzling olive oil or melted butter on top before baking; this helps it crisp up.
- For an even crispier texture, consider broiling the chicken for a few minutes at the end of baking. Always watch it closely to avoid burning.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to help set the crust.
How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Coating:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Extras:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Cooking spray
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Parmesan chicken recipe will take about 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking. So, you’re looking at around 40 minutes total. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your chicken. While it’s heating, take a moment to lightly grease or spray a baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Preparing the Coating Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will create a flavorful coating for your chicken.
3. Whisking the Eggs:
In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well blended. This will help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken.
4. Dredging the Chicken:
Place the flour in a separate shallow bowl. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Dredge each breast into the flour first, shake off any excess. Then dip it into the eggs, and finally coat it well with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each piece is fully coated for that crispy texture!
5. Arranging the Chicken:
Once all the chicken is coated, arrange the pieces in your prepared baking dish. Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the tops to assist with browning and give extra flavor.
6. Baking:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through and the coating to be golden brown.
7. Optional Crisping:
If you like your chicken extra crispy, broil it for an additional 2 to 3 minutes at the end. Keep a close watch to prevent burning!
8. Serving:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious homemade Longhorn Steakhouse style Parmesan Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can be used for a more flavorful result. Just note that they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time, so check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that the flour used is also gluten-free. It’s a delicious alternative that won’t sacrifice taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave it gently until warmed through to maintain its texture.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. Just take it out of the fridge 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature, then continue with baking as directed.
