How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

If you’ve been craving a rich and comforting dinner that bursts with flavor, you’ve got to try making Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken at home. This recipe captures the perfect balance of crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and zesty tomato sauce that makes the classic restaurant dish so irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this easy-to-follow recipe brings all the savory goodness right to your kitchen table with ingredients you probably already have on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor Experience: Enjoy the distinct combo of Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs just like the famous Longhorn Steakhouse dish.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, this recipe is accessible and budget-friendly.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute guests.
• Versatile Meal: Pairs beautifully with pasta, veggies, or fresh salads for customizable meals.
• Family Favorite: The crispy texture and cheesy goodness appeal to all ages, making dinner a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe uses a straightforward list of ingredients that each play an important role in building its signature taste and texture. From crispy breaded chicken to melty Parmesan, every element adds flavor, moisture, or crunch to create a well-rounded dish.

• Chicken breasts: Skinless and boneless, flattened for even cooking and a tender bite.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for maximum flavor and that classic nutty finish.
• Italian breadcrumbs: Provides the crispy coating essential to the dish’s texture.
• Eggs: Acts as the binding agent to help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken.
• Marinara sauce: A savory tomato base that adds moisture and balances the richness of the cheese.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts on top for gooey, creamy goodness.
• Garlic powder and Italian seasoning: Boosts the depth of flavor with aromatic herbs and spices.
• Olive oil or butter: Used for sautéing to achieve a golden, crisp crust.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient.

Variations for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Feel free to tailor this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe to suit your dietary preferences or bring a new twist to the classic. It’s a flexible meal that can be modified effortlessly depending on what you have or want to try!

• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the coating.
• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little heat in the breadcrumb mixture.
• Herb-infused crust: Mix in fresh basil, oregano, or parsley into the breadcrumb coating for extra freshness.
• Cheese swap: Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different melt and flavor.
• Vegetarian alternative: Replace the chicken breasts with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms.

How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch, to ensure they cook consistently. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to kick off the flavor foundation.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

Set up a breading station with beaten eggs in one bowl and a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan in another. Dip each chicken breast in the eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press gently to make sure the coating adheres well.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. This creates that signature crisp crust you’re looking for.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the cooked chicken breasts in a baking dish, spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece, and top with shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese for melting.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

• Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and has more flavor than pre-grated varieties.
• Don’t skip pounding the chicken: Ensures uniform cooking and tender results.
• Control your heat: Cooking the chicken over medium heat avoids burning the crust while fully cooking the inside.
• Let the chicken rest: Resting after baking locks in juices and keeps meat moist.
• Customize breadcrumbs: Mix panko with Italian breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy crust.

How to Serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh chopped basil or parsley sprinkled right before serving adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal contrast to the rich parmesan and marinara flavors.

Side Dishes

This Parmesan Chicken pairs beautifully with spaghetti, garlic mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad for a balanced, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering the chicken on a bed of creamy polenta or serving it open-faced on toasted ciabatta for a hearty sandwich option that’ll impress any guest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Freezing

Freeze cooked chicken without the sauce wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding fresh sauce.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep the crust crunchy and cheese melty; microwaving can make it soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs have more fat, which can make the dish even juicier, though they might require slightly longer cooking times.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes, replacing Italian breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or gluten-free panko works perfectly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and ensure breadcrumbs don’t contain dairy; the flavor will be a bit different but still delicious.

What’s the best type of marinara sauce to use?

Choose a high-quality marinara or make your own with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for the most vibrant taste.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Proper pounding, moderate heat cooking, and resting after baking all help retain moisture, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have this easy, flavorful Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe, there’s no need to wait for a night out to enjoy that delicious taste at home. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll soon be serving up this crowd-pleasing favorite that’s guaranteed to warm your heart and your plate. Give it a try tonight — your dinner table just got a whole lot tastier!

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