Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Recreating This Restaurant Favorite

If you’ve ever visited Longhorn Steakhouse, chances are you’ve indulged in their famous Parmesan Chicken. It’s a dish that stands out for its crispy, golden crust and tender, juicy chicken, all perfectly seasoned with a savory blend of Parmesan cheese. It’s no wonder that people can’t get enough of it!

But what if you could enjoy that same restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of your own kitchen? Well, you’re in luck! In this Longhorn Parmesan Chicken recipe, we’ll walk you through every step to help you recreate this restaurant favorite at home. Whether you’re craving a special dinner or just want to impress your family with your cooking skills, this guide will ensure you nail the crispy Parmesan crust and tender chicken every single time.

This recipe is not just about throwing ingredients together, it’s about getting those authentic flavors and textures that make Longhorn’s Parmesan Chicken so beloved. We’ll cover everything from the right ingredients to expert tips on getting that perfect crust. So, grab your apron and let’s get started on making a dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

What Makes Longhorn Parmesan Chicken So Special?

Longhorn’s Parmesan Chicken isn’t just another chicken dish, it’s an experience. From the moment it hits your plate, you’re greeted with a crispy, golden crust that crunches with each bite, giving way to a moist, tender chicken breast inside. But what truly makes this dish stand out is the perfect balance of flavors.

At Longhorn Steakhouse, they take pride in their use of high-quality ingredients. The chicken is coated in a flavorful Parmesan breading, creating that crispy layer that melts into the savory, slightly tangy cheese. What makes it different from other Parmesan chicken recipes is the way the crust is made: panko breadcrumbs combined with freshly grated Parmesan cheese create the perfect texture, making every bite irresistible.

Another thing that elevates this dish is the careful seasoning. Longhorn doesn’t just rely on Parmesan to deliver flavor, they balance it with garlic, herbs, and a touch of black pepper to complement the richness of the cheese. This thoughtful combination of seasonings creates a complex, yet comforting taste that keeps you coming back for more.

It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, simple enough to make at home, but sophisticated enough to feel like a special treat every time you sit down to enjoy it. This dish is the definition of restaurant-quality cooking at home, and with the right ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can make it just as delicious as the one served at Longhorn.

Ingredients for the Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe

When it comes to creating a dish as delicious and authentic as Longhorn’s Parmesan Chicken, the ingredients play a crucial role. While the recipe itself is simple, using the right ingredients ensures you achieve that perfect crispy crust and juicy chicken that’s a hallmark of this popular dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: You want chicken breasts that are plump and even in thickness, so they cook evenly.
• Salt and pepper: These are essential for seasoning the chicken before breading. A generous amount of salt and freshly cracked pepper will enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.

For the Parmesan Crust:

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This is the star ingredient for that golden, cheesy crust. Make sure you use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture, pre-grated cheese tends to be drier and less flavorful.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: These provide the perfect crunch. They’re light, airy, and toast beautifully, creating the ideal texture for the crust.
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Garlic adds a depth of flavor that complements the cheese and enhances the overall taste.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A touch of oregano gives the crust a hint of herbal flavor, balancing out the richness of the cheese.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and helps with the crust’s color, giving it that beautiful golden brown hue.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: This provides a mild sweetness and depth that rounds out the flavor profile of the crust.

For the Breading Process:

• 2 large eggs: Lightly beaten eggs help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken, ensuring that crispy coating.
• 1/4 cup flour: This is optional, but dusting the chicken in flour first helps the egg mixture adhere better, creating a more even coat.

For Cooking:

• Olive oil or vegetable oil: You’ll need oil for frying, which will help create that crispy texture. Don’t skimp on the oil, it’s essential for a nice, even crust.
• Fresh lemon wedges: These are perfect for squeezing over the chicken just before serving, giving it a fresh burst of acidity to balance the richness.

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the rich, cheesy crust.
• Extra Parmesan: If you’re a fan of extra cheesy goodness, you can always top the chicken with a bit more grated Parmesan before serving.

These ingredients are simple, yet they combine to create that authentic, irresistible flavor that makes Longhorn’s Parmesan Chicken so special. The key is using fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially the Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Trust me, the little details matter, and they’ll make all the difference in creating a dish that rivals the one you’d get at Longhorn.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Now that you have all your ingredients lined up, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start cooking! Follow these simple steps to make Longhorn Parmesan Chicken that’s crispy, cheesy, and restaurant-quality. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to replicate this dish at home.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) before you begin preparing the chicken. This ensures that the oven is at the perfect temperature for baking the chicken once it’s crispy and ready to finish off.

Step 2: Season the Chicken Breasts

Take your chicken breasts and season both sides generously with salt and freshly cracked pepper. The seasoning is key to bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken, so don’t skip this step!

Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station

Now, it’s time to prepare the breading station. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) before you begin preparing the chicken.

1. In the first dish, add flour. Lightly dredge the chicken in flour to create a base layer for the egg wash to stick.
2. In the second dish, beat the eggs. You can add a small splash of water to help the eggs mix evenly.
3. In the third dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, and onion powder. Stir well to combine. This mixture is what will give the chicken that amazing crispy, cheesy crust.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Take each seasoned chicken breast and coat it in the following order:

1. First, dip it in the flour, ensuring it’s lightly dusted all over.
2. Next, dip it into the egg wash, making sure the chicken is fully coated.
3. Finally, press the chicken into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring the crumbs stick evenly all over the chicken. Press gently to ensure a good coat, especially on the edges.

Step 5: Pan-Fry the Chicken

Add about 2 tablespoons of oil to a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently place the breaded chicken breasts into the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on the outside. Depending on the size of your pan, you might need to fry the chicken in batches.

Step 6: Finish Baking in the Oven

Once the chicken is golden and crispy, transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking dish. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked through while maintaining that juicy tenderness inside.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Serve your Longhorn Parmesan Chicken with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a burst of freshness. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a little extra grated Parmesan if you like it extra cheesy!

Tips for the Perfect Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

To ensure your Longhorn Parmesan Chicken turns out just like the restaurant’s famous dish, here are a few expert tips to take your cooking game to the next level. These little tricks will help you get that crispy, golden crust and tender, juicy chicken every single time.

1. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan

The key to a flavorful, crispy crust is freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives to prevent clumping, which can affect both the flavor and texture. When you use fresh Parmesan, you’re getting the best taste and a better texture in the crust. Plus, it melts beautifully!

2. Don’t Skip the Flour Step

While it may seem like an unnecessary step, dusting the chicken with flour before dipping it in the egg wash is essential for a perfect breading. It helps the egg adhere better, creating an even coating. This makes sure the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture sticks well and stays crispy throughout the cooking process.

3. Double-Coat for Extra Crunch

If you love an extra crispy crust, double-coating the chicken will give you that satisfying crunch. Simply dip the breaded chicken back into the egg wash and breadcrumbs for a second coat before frying. This adds even more texture and keeps the crust from falling off during cooking.

4. Use Panko Breadcrumbs

Panko breadcrumbs are light, airy, and create a crispy, crunchy texture that regular breadcrumbs can’t match. They’re a crucial ingredient in making the perfect parmesan crusted chicken. If you’re looking for that signature crispiness, don’t substitute with traditional breadcrumbs.

5. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

When frying the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry in batches if necessary. If you add too many pieces of chicken at once, the oil temperature will drop, and the crust won’t cook properly. Frying in batches ensures a crispy exterior and golden brown color.

6. Finish Baking in the Oven

After you pan-fry the chicken to get that perfect golden crust, finish baking in the oven to cook the chicken through without overcooking it. This method gives you a juicy, tender interior while keeping the crust crispy on the outside.

7. Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving

After baking, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute inside the chicken, keeping it moist and flavorful. It also prevents the juices from spilling out when you cut into it, which can leave the chicken dry.

8. Squeeze Fresh Lemon for Extra Flavor

A quick squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished chicken adds a delightful burst of freshness and acidity that balances the richness of the Parmesan. It’s a simple touch that can take the dish to the next level, just like Longhorn’s version!

9. Don’t Skip the Garnishes

While it’s easy to get caught up in the main components, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan adds both color and flavor to the dish. It makes your Parmesan Chicken look as good as it tastes and gives a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the richness of the breading.

How to Serve Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Now that you’ve made your Longhorn Parmesan Chicken, it’s time to think about the perfect sides and drinks to complete the meal. Here are some quick and delicious serving suggestions:

1. Pair with Classic Sides

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, they complement the crispy chicken perfectly.
• Grilled Vegetables: Light and fresh, they balance the richness of the dish.
• Caesar Salad: A tangy, crunchy salad adds freshness and texture.

2. Serve with Light Pasta

A lemon-butter pasta or angel hair with olive oil makes a simple, elegant side that doesn’t overpower the chicken.

3. Add a Fresh Side Salad

A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich Parmesan crust.

4. Complement with a Drink

• White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with the dish.
• Sparkling Water or Lemonade: These refreshing drinks balance the richness and add a zesty twist.

5. Garnish and Finish with Lemon

Top your chicken with fresh parsley for color, and serve with a lemon wedge for a burst of fresh acidity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

And there you have it, Longhorn Parmesan Chicken, made right at home! With a crispy, cheesy crust and juicy, tender chicken, this dish is sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a special dinner or just craving something indulgent, this copycat recipe brings the restaurant-quality flavors of Longhorn Steakhouse to your kitchen.

By following the steps, tips, and tricks in this guide, you’ll be able to recreate this beloved dish with ease. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite sides, drinks, and garnishes to make the meal truly your own.

We hope you enjoy this delicious recipe! If you try it out, feel free to leave a comment below or share your version with us. Bon appétit!

Craving More Delicious Recipes?

If you loved making Longhorn Parmesan Chicken, why not try some of these other mouthwatering dishes from my blog? Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a fresh, new flavor adventure, I’ve got something for everyone!

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• Southern Fried Chicken Livers Recipe – A savory, crispy southern classic.

Explore these recipes and more to keep your kitchen cooking with flavor!