Bring the flavors of your favorite steakhouse home with this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken—a crispy, cheesy, and juicy dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. With a golden Parmesan crust, melted mozzarella topping, and tender chicken inside, this dish delivers comfort food vibes with a touch of restaurant flair.
Why You’ll Love It
If you’re a fan of bold, cheesy, crave-worthy chicken dishes, this one’s for you. The Parmesan crust is crisp and full of flavor, while the chicken stays juicy and tender. It’s the kind of dish that looks impressive, tastes even better, and comes together easily in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Pantry & Fridge Staples:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – pounded evenly for consistent cooking
- 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs – or use Italian-style for extra flavor
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – the base of your coating
- 2 large eggs + 1/4 cup milk – for the perfect egg wash
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – for rich, salty flavor
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – melty and gooey topping
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – for a savory kick
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil – to sear and build flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly oil a baking dish and set up three shallow bowls for your dredging station.
2. Set Up Dredging Station
- Bowl 1: All-purpose flour
- Bowl 2: Eggs and milk, whisked together
- Bowl 3: Bread crumbs, half the Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
3. Bread the Chicken
Pat chicken dry. Dredge each breast in flour, dip in the egg wash, then coat in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press gently to help it stick.
4. Sear Until Golden
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
5. Top and Bake
Transfer chicken to your prepared baking dish. Mix the remaining Parmesan with shredded mozzarella and minced garlic. Sprinkle over the chicken.
6. Bake to Finish
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh Parmesan – Pre-grated won’t melt the same way and can be less flavorful.
- Even thickness is key – Pounding your chicken ensures even cooking.
- Tent with foil if your cheese is browning too quickly during baking.
- Let it rest – Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking for juicy results.
What to Serve with It
Pair your Parmesan chicken with:
- Creamy garlic mashed potatoes
- A crisp Caesar salad
- Crusty garlic bread to soak up every cheesy bite
- A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon
Storage & Reheating
To Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To Reheat: Use the oven at 350°F to maintain crispiness. Avoid the microwave—it can make the coating soggy.
To Freeze: Freeze cooked portions individually. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Creative Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
- Spinach Layer: Place sautéed spinach on the chicken before adding cheese.
- Different Cuts: Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for extra juiciness.
- Cheese Swap: Try provolone or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
FAQ
Q: Why dredge in flour before egg?
A: The flour helps the egg adhere, which helps the breadcrumbs stick better for a crispier crust.
Q: Can I prep this ahead?
A: Absolutely! Assemble up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q: How do I know it’s fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temp of 165°F and no pink inside.
Q: Can I use store-bought shredded cheese?
A: You can, but fresh-grated melts and tastes better in this recipe.
Longhorn Copycat Parmesan Chicken: Restaurant Quality at Home
This Parmesan Chicken has everything you love about a night out—crispy, cheesy, juicy—and none of the restaurant bill. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, date nights, or when you just want something delicious and comforting.