This easy Parmesan chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, just like you’d find at Longhorn Steakhouse! It’s covered in a cheesy, tasty coating that makes for a wonderful meal.
Who doesn’t love a chicken dish that feels like a treat? I often pair it with a fresh salad or some buttery mashed potatoes. Perfect for impressing guests or just enjoying a cozy night in! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: The star of the dish! Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy cooking. If you’re short on chicken, substitute with turkey cutlets or even eggplant slices for a vegetarian option.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan has the best flavor and texture, but for convenience, pre-grated will work too. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast or a cashew-based cheese substitute.
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add great flavor. You can use plain breadcrumbs and mix in Italian seasonings or panko for extra crunch. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs!
Cooking Oil: Vegetable oil is a solid choice for frying, but canola or avocado oil also works well. If you’re looking to cut back on oil, try baking the chicken at a high temperature instead.
How Do I Achieve Crispy Chicken Without Burning It?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is all about temperature control. Here’s how to ensure your chicken comes out just right:
- Heat your oil on medium, and do the “drop test”: drop a breadcrumb into the oil. If it bubbles up, your oil is ready!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This keeps the oil temperature steady and results in even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked but still juicy.
By following these tips, you’ll have crispy, golden chicken every time—just like at Longhorn Steakhouse!
How to Make Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Style Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Cooking oil (vegetable or canola) for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and about 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need around 35 minutes to have a delicious and crispy Parmesan chicken ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by preparing your chicken. If the chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets that are about ¾ inch thick. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better.
2. Set Up Dredging Stations
Next, set up your dredging stations. In a shallow dish, place the flour. In a second shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and water until well combined. In a third dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken
Now it’s time to coat your chicken! Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any extra egg to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks well.
4. Cook the Chicken
Heat about ¼ inch of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s shimmering. If your skillet isn’t big enough, cook the chicken in batches. Add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
5. Add Butter and Finish Cooking
After flipping the chicken to the second side, drizzle some melted butter over each piece. This will enhance the flavor and add extra crispiness to your chicken.
6. Drain and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil. If you like, garnish your chicken with some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
7. Optional: Dipping Sauce
For an extra treat, serve your chicken with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or alongside your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard.
Enjoy your delicious, crispy Parmesan chicken just like Longhorn Steakhouse! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
FAQ About Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Style Parmesan Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it first! The best way to do this is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor or mozzarella for a milder taste. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Parmesan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave it in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Chicken?
Absolutely! For a healthier option, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
