If you’ve ever dined at Longhorn Steakhouse, you may have encountered their famous Parmesan Crusted Chicken – a tender, juicy chicken breast topped with a savory, crispy Parmesan crust. This dish is a favorite because it combines the rich flavors of seasoned chicken with the crunch and creaminess of a Parmesan topping. Whether you’ve tried it before or are looking for a new dish to add to your weekly meal plan, this Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe will bring the flavors of your favorite restaurant meal right into your own kitchen.
This easy-to-follow recipe walks you through every step of recreating this delicious dish. You can create a meal that will impress family and friends with simple ingredients and easy techniques.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather all the necessary ingredients. This recipe uses common kitchen staples, which makes it even more convenient.
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for coating)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Parmesan Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Optional Ingredients:
- Crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
- Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
Equipment Needed:
- Mixing bowl – For combining the marinade and preparing topping ingredients.
- Baking Sheet – For baking the chicken.
- Tongs – For turning the chicken pieces.
- Grater – For grating the Parmesan cheese.
- Skillet – For searing the chicken before baking.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
1. Prepare the Chicken
Before you begin cooking, it’s important to prep the chicken properly. This ensures that each chicken breast cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the seasonings and Parmesan coating.
Flatten the Chicken Breasts:
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness gently. This step ensures the chicken cooks uniformly and remains tender and juicy.
2. Create the Parmesan Crust Coating
The crust is what sets this dish apart, giving the chicken its signature crispiness and flavor.
Mix the Coating Ingredients:
- In a shallow dish, combine 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
Coat the Chicken:
- Rub each chicken breast with a light layer of olive oil. This helps the Parmesan mixture stick to the chicken and contributes to the crispy texture.
- Press each chicken breast into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated.
3. Sear the Chicken
To give the chicken a beautiful golden-brown crust, you’ll need to sear it before finishing it off in the oven.
Heat the Skillet:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Sear the Chicken:
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side. You want the exterior to turn golden brown and crispy, but the chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Sear the chicken in batches to give each piece a nice crust.
4. Finish Baking the Chicken
Once the chicken is seared, it’s time to bake it to ensure it’s cooked all the way through.
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while searing the chicken.
Bake the Chicken:
- Place the seared chicken breasts onto a baking sheet for further cooking.
- Place the chicken in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This step ensures the chicken is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat.
Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, especially for thicker pieces.
5. Prepare the Parmesan Topping
While the chicken is baking, you can prepare the Parmesan topping, which adds an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
Mix the Topping Ingredients:
- Combine 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, and 1 tbsp lemon juice in a small bowl. Mix well until smooth.
- This topping will melt into a gooey, savory layer over the chicken, enhancing the dish’s overall richness.
6. Add the Topping and Broil
Once the chicken has baked, it’s time to add the finishing touch.
Spread the Topping:
- Take the chicken out of the oven and evenly spread the Parmesan topping over each piece.
Broil the Chicken:
- Switch your oven to broil and place the chicken back in the oven for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning the topping.
- Broil the chicken until the Parmesan topping becomes bubbly and golden brown.
7. Serve and Garnish
Once the chicken is finished, it’s time to plate and serve!
Garnish the Chicken:
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a vibrant pop of color and a touch of freshness.. You can also serve the chicken with lemon wedges for an extra burst of brightness.
Serve Hot:
- Serve the Parmesan crusted chicken immediately while it’s hot and crispy. Pair it with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfecting Your Parmesan-Crusted Chicken
Making the perfect Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is easy when you keep a few tips in mind.
1. Don’t Skip the Searing
Searing the chicken before baking helps lock in the juices and creates a crispy, flavorful crust. It also adds a nice golden-brown color to the chicken.
2. Use Panko for Extra Crunch
Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, which helps achieve the signature crunch of the Parmesan crust. If you don’t have panko, you can substitute it with crushed cornflakes or regular breadcrumbs, but the texture may differ slightly.
3. Add a Marinade for Extra Flavor
For even more flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic for 30 minutes to an hour before coating them in the Parmesan mixture. This adds a subtle citrusy brightness that complements the richness of the Parmesan crust.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer
To ensure the chicken is cooked without drying out, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This is the best way to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken every time.
5. Make the Topping Extra Crispy
For a crispier topping, you can mix a tablespoon of panko breadcrumbs into the Parmesan topping before broiling. This gives the top layer an extra crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy mayonnaise and Dijon.
Variations of Parmesan-Crusted Chicken
This versatile recipe can be easily customized to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
1. Spicy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the Parmesan coating for a spicy kick. You can also sprinkle a little hot sauce over the chicken before adding the topping for extra heat.
2. Herb-Crusted Chicken
- Add chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the Parmesan coating for an herbaceous twist. This adds a fragrant, earthy flavor to the dish.
3. Healthier Version
- Swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt in the Parmesan topping. This reduces the fat content while still maintaining a creamy texture. You can also use whole wheat panko breadcrumbs for a slightly healthier crust.
4. Low-Carb Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds. This still gives the chicken a crispy crust without adding extra carbs.
Suggested Side Dishes
This Parmesan-crusted chicken pairs beautifully with a range of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:
- Roasted Vegetables: A simple side of roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts adds a nutritious balance to the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic perfectly complement the crispy chicken.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan is a classic pairing for this dish.
- Buttered Noodles: Simple buttered noodles with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs are a great accompaniment.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Potassium: 350mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 300 IU
- Calcium: 150 mg
- Iron: 1.5 mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs can be used just as effectively in this recipe. They have more fat, so they may take slightly longer to cook, but they’ll be juicy and flavorful.
2. Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
You can prep the chicken by coating it in the Parmesan mixture beforehand. Keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. You can also prepare the topping in advance.
3. Can I freeze Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked chicken without the topping. Reheat it in the oven, then add the Parmesan topping before broiling.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven to maintain its crispy texture.
Conclusion
Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect recipe for anyone who loves crispy, flavorful chicken with a rich, cheesy topping. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for a special dinner at home or even a weeknight meal. With its crunchy Parmesan crust and creamy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that you can serve with various sides for a complete, satisfying dinner.
So the next time you’re craving something indulgent and delicious, skip the restaurant and try making this Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home—you won’t be disappointed!
For more Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipes, check out [link ].
Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl – ideal for combining the marinade and preparing topping ingredients.
- 1 Baking Sheet – for baking the chicken
- 1 Tongs .– for turning the chicken pieces.
- 1 Grater – for grating the Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for coating)
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (for topping)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness to promote uniform cooking.
Prepare the Parmesan coating by mixing grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
Coat the Chicken: Lightly rub olive oil on each chicken breast, then press the Parmesan mixture onto each piece, ensuring an even coating.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side.
Finish Baking: Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Prepare the Topping: While the chicken is baking, combine the mayonnaise, shredded Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
Add the Topping: Remove the chicken from the oven and spread the Parmesan topping evenly over each piece. Return the chicken to the oven and broil on high for 2-3 minutes until the topping is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve: Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 30 minutes before coating with the Parmesan mixture.
- To get the topping extra crispy, use a combination of panko breadcrumbs and regular breadcrumbs.
- If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use crushed cornflakes or regular breadcrumbs as a substitute.
- This dish is complemented perfectly by roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.
- To make the dish healthier, swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt in the Parmesan topping.