Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a savory and cheesy dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It features crispy breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, giving you a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. The recipe combines a perfectly seasoned breadcrumb coating with the rich flavors of Parmesan and mozzarella, making every bite mouthwateringly delicious. It’s also surprisingly easy to make, so you can enjoy this Longhorn classic anytime you want. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Choose medium-sized breasts for even cooking. If they are too thick, you can butterfly them or pound them to an even thickness for better results.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – The flour helps the egg mixture stick to the chicken, giving the coating a good base.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs – Use plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs for a nice crunchy texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – This adds richness and depth to the breadcrumb mixture, giving the chicken a cheesy, crispy crust.
- 2 eggs – Eggs help bind the coating to the chicken and give the breading a golden finish.
- 1/2 cup milk – The milk makes the egg wash smoother, ensuring even coverage.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the coating.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Adds a subtle garlicky flavor to the coating.
- 1 tsp onion powder – Enhances the savory taste of the breadcrumb mixture.
- 1 tsp dried basil – Provides an herbaceous note that complements the Parmesan cheese.
For Cooking and Topping
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil – For pan-frying the chicken breasts to golden perfection.
- 1 cup marinara sauce – Choose a quality marinara sauce or make your own for the best flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully on top of the chicken, adding that classic cheesy goodness.
Preparing the Chicken
Dredging the Chicken
To begin, ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness. If necessary, place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a mallet. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. This mixture will serve as the binding agent between the chicken and the breadcrumb coating. In a separate shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. This is the flavorful, crispy coating that gives the dish its signature crunch.
Set up a dredging station with the flour, the egg mixture, and the breadcrumb mixture. Coat each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it adheres well.
Cooking the Chicken
Pan-Frying the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the chicken is golden brown. The goal here is to create a crispy crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. You don’t need to cook the chicken through at this point, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
Once the chicken breasts are browned, remove them from the skillet and place them in a greased baking dish.
Assembling the Dish
Adding the Marinara and Cheese
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Next, spoon about 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over each chicken breast, spreading it evenly. The marinara adds tanginess that balances the richness of the cheese and breading. Then, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each piece. The cheese will melt during baking, forming a deliciously gooey layer on top of the chicken.
Baking the Parmesan Chicken
Finishing in the Oven
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know the dish is ready when the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), and the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden-brown spots. This final bake ensures that the chicken is fully cooked while melding all the flavors together.
Serving the Parmesan Chicken
Plating and Serving Suggestions
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken extra tender.
Serve the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken hot, alongside your favorite side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley over the top before serving.
Conservation and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before storing it. Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The breading may lose some of its crispiness in the fridge, but the flavors will remain just as delicious.
Reheating Tips
To reheat the chicken, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps to revive some of the crispiness in the breading, ensuring the chicken tastes just as good as when it was first cooked. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Make-Ahead Option
If you’re short on time, you can prep the chicken ahead of time. After coating the chicken with the breadcrumb mixture, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready to bake, simply pan-fry the chicken, add the toppings, and finish it in the oven.
Conclusion
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a fantastic dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. The crispy breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese is a winning combination that’s sure to impress your family and guests. Whether you’re making this for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, the simplicity of the recipe paired with its bold flavors makes it a go-to option. Plus, with easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, you’ll be able to enjoy this tasty dish whenever you crave it!