This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken features juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy, cheesy crust. It’s topped with rich marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs—yum!
Honestly, it’s such a crowd-pleaser at dinner time. Everyone loves cheesy dishes, and this one never fails to impress! I usually serve it with a side of pasta for an easy meal. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are best for this recipe. If you prefer, you can swap them for chicken thighs for a juicier bite or use turkey cutlets for a lighter option.
Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs: These add flavor and texture. If you can’t find them, mix plain breadcrumbs with dried Italian herbs like basil and thyme.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a great nutty flavor. Pecorino Romano is a tasty substitute if you want something sharper. Nutritional yeast works well for a dairy-free option!
Marinara Sauce: Using a store-bought marinara is convenient, but homemade sauce really elevates the dish. You can also substitute with pesto for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Cooked to Perfection?
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is an important step, ensuring it cooks evenly. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin, and place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper to avoid a mess.
- Gently pound until they are about 1/2 inch thick; this not only helps with cooking time but also makes the chicken tender and juicy.
Next, when cooking in the skillet, keep an eye on the color. You want a golden crust, and remember to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Aim for 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat!
Following these steps will help you serve up perfectly cooked, delicious parmesan chicken. Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🥳
Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes to cook in the oven. Total time is around 35 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but fancy enough to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be ready for the chicken when it’s done cooking.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This step is important because it helps them cook uniformly and stay juicy.
3. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Grab three shallow dishes. Place the all-purpose flour in the first dish. In the second, beat the eggs together with the tablespoon of water. In the third dish, mix the Italian breadcrumbs, 3/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Bread the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, coat each chicken breast thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks.
5. Cook the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook them until they’re golden brown on both sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the heat.
6. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Spoon the marinara sauce evenly over each chicken breast, covering them nicely. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and for the cheese to be melted and bubbly.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven. For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or basil if you like before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken! It’s perfect served with a side of pasta or a fresh salad. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is by placing them in the fridge overnight or using the cold water method—just place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for the Marinara Sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce on hand, you can substitute it with store-bought pesto, Alfredo sauce, or even a simple tomato sauce with herbs. Each will give a unique flavor twist!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the breading ahead of time. Just assemble the chicken breasts in the skillet with marinara sauce and cheeses, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover parmesan chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, and be careful not to overcook it again to keep the chicken tender.