This tasty Parmesan Chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It’s topped with melty cheese and adds a flavorful punch to your dinner plate!
If you’re like me, you’ll appreciate how quickly this dish comes together. Serve it with a side salad, and you have a lovely meal. Plus, who doesn’t love cheese, right? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. If you prefer, chicken thighs work well too; they tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs add flavor, but you can use plain breadcrumbs mixed with Italian herbs if that’s what you have. Panko can also be a great crunchy alternative!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nutty flavor. If you’re out, grated Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast can provide a similar taste for a non-dairy option.
Vegetable Oil: For frying, vegetable oil is common, but feel free to use olive oil for a different flavor. Just be careful with the smoke point!
How Do You Get Chicken Perfectly Crispy?
The secret to getting that nice, crispy coating is all in the preparation and frying process. Follow these steps for the best texture:
- Make sure to flatten the chicken to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and promotes crispiness.
- Coat the chicken in each step thoroughly: first flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs. This creates layers that get crispy when fried.
- Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. This prevents the chicken from soaking up the oil and becoming soggy. Test by dropping a breadcrumb in; it should sizzle immediately.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Frying a few pieces at a time keeps the oil hot and the crust crispy.
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: Marinara sauce or tomato sauce, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prep, and around 20 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets or pound them to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and become nice and juicy!
2. Setting Up Your Breading Stations:
Now, gather three shallow dishes. In the first one, place the flour and season it with salt and pepper. In the second dish, crack the eggs, add water, and beat them together. In your last dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika. Each station will help give the chicken that tasty, crispy coating!
3. Dredging the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and dredge it first in the flour—make sure to shake off any excess. Next, dip the chicken in the egg mixture, letting any extra drip off. Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press down slightly to ensure it’s well covered!
4. Frying the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Fry each piece for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F). Keep an eye on them; we want them crispy, not burnt!
5. Baking the Chicken:
After frying, transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each piece. Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
6. Garnishing and Serving:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot, either on its own or with a side of marinara sauce drizzled over the top. Enjoy your tasty homemade version of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella adds a delightful stretch, you can swap it for provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will give varying flavors!
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Just ensure all your ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just be sure to cook it within a day for the best flavor and texture. When you’re ready to cook, proceed with frying and baking as usual!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use a microwave, but be mindful that the coating may lose some crispiness.
