This Parmesan chicken is crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-tasty! Coated with a golden breadcrumb mix and topped with melted cheese, it’s a real winner for dinner.
Who doesn’t love a cheesy chicken dish? I often serve it with a side of veggies or pasta for a complete meal. You’ll want to keep this recipe handy—it’s that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are preferred for this recipe, ensuring even cooking and easy eating. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken thighs work well too!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These provide great crunch! If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture might not be as crispy. Another option is crushed cornflakes or tortilla chips for added flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is the best for flavor! However, if you’re in a pinch, pre-grated Parmesan works too. For a different twist, use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Olive Oil: This adds excellent flavor and is healthier. You can substitute with vegetable oil or canola oil if needed, but ensure it’s suitable for frying.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
Achieving that crunchy coating is key! Here are some simple steps to ensure your chicken turns out just right:
- Pound the chicken evenly; this helps it cook uniformly and stay juicy.
- Coat in flour first, which dries the surface for better adhesion of the egg and breading.
- After dredging, make sure to shake off excess flour to prevent clumping.
- Fry in hot oil but don’t overcrowd the pan; this keeps the temperature steady for crispiness.
By following these tips, you’ll have beautifully crispy Parmesan chicken every time! Enjoy cooking!
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
For the Coating:
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 1/4 cup olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 30-40 minutes in total to cook. It includes frying the chicken and baking it to perfection. In no time, you’ll have a delicious dish ready for serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be ready when the chicken is done frying!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
3. Set Up Breading Stations:
In three shallow bowls, prepare your breading stations:
– In the first bowl, add flour seasoned with salt and pepper.
– In the second bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the water.
– In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and first dredge it in the flour, making sure to shake off the excess. Next, dip it in the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Fry the Chicken:
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the breaded chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Remember, the chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the fried chicken breasts to a baking dish. Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each piece. Then, place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), with the cheese melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve it hot and enjoy this delicious, crispy Parmesan chicken!
FAQ for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra moisture and flavor. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless to keep the cooking time similar to the recipe.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can bread the chicken and fry it a day ahead. Store the cooked, cooled chicken in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply bake it until heated through and the cheese is melted.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven to maintain crispness, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry, though the coating may not stay as crispy.
What Can I Serve This Chicken With?
This Parmesan chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. For a low-carb option, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or zucchini noodles!
