Nothing beats the combination of crispy, golden-brown chicken coated in a flavorful Parmesan crust, topped with melty mozzarella and aromatic garlic. This Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is a restaurant-worthy dish that brings the best of steakhouse flavors straight to your kitchen. With its crispy exterior and juicy, tender inside, this dish is bound to be a family favorite! The best part? It’s easy to make and takes less than 45 minutes from start to finish. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, a side salad, or even some garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving some comfort food, this recipe will never disappoint!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and milk, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with half the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Sear the chicken in a heated skillet with olive oil for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish.
- Mix the remaining Parmesan with mozzarella and minced garlic, then sprinkle over the chicken.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 580 kcal | Servings: 4
Why This Recipe Works
There are many ways to prepare chicken, but what makes this Parmesan-crusted version stand out? Here’s why this dish is so beloved:
1. Perfect Balance of Crunch and Tenderness
The key to the best Parmesan-crusted chicken is the crispy coating that locks in moisture while providing a flavorful crunch. The combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese creates a golden crust that enhances both the texture and taste of the chicken. When cooked correctly, the exterior stays crispy while the inside remains juicy and tender.
2. Melty, Cheesy Goodness
What truly sets this dish apart is the layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. The sharp and nutty flavor of Parmesan pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy texture of mozzarella, making each bite indulgent and satisfying.
3. A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite
This recipe isn’t just about texture – it’s also packed with savory and aromatic flavors. The Italian seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan cheese work together to create an irresistible depth of flavor. Whether you’re a fan of garlic-infused dishes or simply love bold flavors, this chicken is sure to impress.
4. Easy and Quick to Prepare
Despite its restaurant-quality taste, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make. With a few pantry staples and less than 45 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal.
5. Versatile and Customizable
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can:
- Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for extra juiciness.
- Add spice with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Make it keto-friendly by swapping the breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
- Serve it with different sides to match your cravings – from mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
The Secret to the Best Parmesan Crust
To achieve the perfect golden crust, it’s important to follow a few essential tips:
1. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
While pre-packaged Parmesan is convenient, it doesn’t melt as well or deliver the same depth of flavor as freshly grated cheese. Always grate your Parmesan from a block for the best results.
2. Pat the Chicken Dry
Before coating the chicken, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the breading stick better and ensures a crispy exterior.
3. Layer Your Coating Properly
The key to a great crust is dredging the chicken in three layers:
- Flour – Helps the egg mixture stick.
- Egg Wash – Ensures the breadcrumbs adhere properly.
- Breadcrumb & Parmesan Mixture – Creates the crispy, flavorful coating.
4. Don’t Skip the Pan-Searing Step
Searing the chicken for a few minutes before baking locks in the moisture and creates that beautiful golden-brown crust. A hot skillet with olive oil is the best way to achieve this.
5. Let the Cheese Melt to Perfection
To avoid burning, bake the chicken uncovered until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. If it starts browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent burning while allowing the cheese to melt evenly.
What to Serve with Parmesan-Crusted Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some great serving ideas:
1. Classic Pairings:
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes balance the crispiness of the chicken.
- Garlic Butter Pasta – A simple butter and garlic pasta enhances the flavors of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables – A mix of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers adds color and nutrition.
2. Lighter Options:
- Caesar Salad – A crisp, tangy salad adds freshness to the meal.
- Steamed Asparagus or Broccoli – A healthy, low-carb side that complements the dish well.
- Zucchini Noodles – A keto-friendly alternative to pasta.
3. Bread and Sauces:
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any melted cheese.
- Marinara Sauce – Adds a nice Italian-style twist.
- Creamy Alfredo Sauce – A rich, indulgent option for dipping.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, you’ll want to keep them as crispy and flavorful as possible when reheating. Here’s how:
Storing:
- Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the chicken before baking for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Oven Method (Best Option): Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to retain crispiness.
- Air Fryer Method: Heat at 375°F (190°C) for 5-6 minutes for a quick, crispy reheat.
- Avoid the Microwave: This can make the breading soggy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is a dish that never disappoints. It’s easy to make, full of rich and satisfying flavors, and customizable to fit your taste preferences. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, it’s a foolproof recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results without the restaurant price.
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The best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to pull off this dish. With just a few simple steps and some basic pantry staples, you can create a meal that looks and tastes like it came straight from a high-end steakhouse.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a flavor-packed, cheesy, and crispy chicken dish, this Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is a must-try. With its perfect balance of crunch, juiciness, and rich flavors, it’s bound to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turns out! Whether you serve it with pasta, salad, or mashed potatoes, it’s a guaranteed hit that will have everyone asking for seconds.