The crispy, golden coating on this Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is what comfort food dreams are made of. With a cheesy garlic topping that bubbles beautifully in the oven, each bite delivers that crave-worthy combination of crunch and melty richness.
Perfect for a cozy weeknight or when you want to wow guests without the stress, this copycat recipe nails that restaurant-quality flavor at home. Pair it with mashed potatoes and a Caesar salad, and you’ve got yourself a complete steakhouse experience without leaving your kitchen.
Full Recipe:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs
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1/4 cup milk
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1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated recommended)
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a baking dish and set aside.
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Set up three dishes: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and milk, and one with a mix of bread crumbs, 1/4 cup Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Pound chicken breasts to even thickness. Dredge each piece first in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
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In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
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Transfer chicken to the prepared baking dish.
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In a bowl, mix remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan, mozzarella, and minced garlic.
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Top each chicken breast with the cheese mixture.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and chicken is cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F).
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 580 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is a standout example of how a few everyday ingredients can come together to create a dish that tastes like it came straight from a fine steakhouse. Inspired by the popular entrée served at Longhorn Steakhouse, this recipe captures the essence of American comfort food, blending rustic charm with bold, indulgent flavors. The real beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—crispy, golden breaded chicken breasts crowned with a decadent blend of Parmesan, mozzarella, and garlic, then baked to perfection. It’s no wonder this meal has become a family favorite across dinner tables nationwide.
The Magic Behind the Crust
One of the most defining characteristics of Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is its irresistibly crispy crust. Unlike a basic breaded chicken, this version incorporates Parmesan cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs into the coating mixture, creating a rich, savory texture that clings beautifully to the meat. The addition of flour and egg wash in the breading process ensures a stable, restaurant-quality crust that turns golden brown when seared in olive oil. This technique not only locks in the juices but also delivers that crave-worthy crunch with every bite.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
The Longhorn-style take on Parmesan chicken stands apart from other versions thanks to its specific blend of cheeses and layering technique. While traditional Chicken Parmesan often includes marinara sauce, this dish forgoes the tomato base in favor of a cheese-forward topping. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan, along with freshly minced garlic, results in a melt-in-your-mouth layer that enhances the breading instead of overpowering it. The choice to bake rather than fry after searing also adds to its appeal, offering a healthier preparation without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Cooking Tips for Best Results
There are several chef-approved tips that can elevate this recipe from good to great:
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Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese whenever possible. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting, while fresh Parmesan delivers superior taste and texture.
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Pound your chicken to an even thickness. This not only helps the meat cook more uniformly but also ensures each piece is tender and juicy throughout.
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Don’t skip the resting time. Letting the chicken sit for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite more flavorful.
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If baking in advance, assemble the breaded chicken and topping, then refrigerate it uncooked for up to 24 hours. This makes it ideal for meal prepping or entertaining.
Creative Additions and Substitutions
While this dish shines on its own, it’s highly adaptable for those who like to put their own spin on recipes. Here are some ideas to enhance or customize your version of Longhorn Parmesan Chicken:
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Add a touch of spice by mixing red pepper flakes or cayenne into the breadcrumb mixture.
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Swap mozzarella for other melty cheeses like provolone or Pepper Jack for a bolder flavor.
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Incorporate veggies by layering sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes under the cheese topping for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
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Try different cuts of chicken. Boneless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful option.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty main dish deserves sides that complement without competing. The rich, cheesy topping and crispy breading pair beautifully with creamy or acidic sides that balance the flavor profile. Here are some favorite accompaniments:
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Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic steakhouse-inspired choice that ties in the garlic used in the chicken topping.
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Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add brightness and color to the plate.
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A Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
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Crusty artisan bread is ideal for soaking up any leftover melted cheese or juices from the baking dish.
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Wine pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay complements the creamy cheese flavors while refreshing the palate.
Perfect for All Occasions
Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is versatile enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. It’s a go-to dish for busy home cooks because it delivers big flavor with minimal complexity. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal, a casual dinner party, or a romantic evening in, it consistently earns rave reviews from anyone lucky enough to get a forkful.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers—though that’s rare—they store well and reheat beautifully. To maintain the crispy coating:
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 10–15 minutes), rather than microwaving, to keep the breading crispy.
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Freeze individual portions by wrapping them tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
A Note on Nutrition
While indulgent in flavor, this dish also provides a solid protein boost thanks to the chicken breast base. The use of oven baking instead of deep-frying helps reduce excess fat, and portion control can help keep it in check for those watching their intake. Pairing it with nutrient-rich sides like greens or steamed vegetables is a simple way to make this dish part of a balanced meal.
Why People Love This Dish
From the moment it hits the oven, the aroma of garlic and cheese fills your kitchen, drawing everyone in like a magnet. The flavor is complex but approachable—crispy edges, tender meat, creamy cheese, and a whisper of garlic and herbs in each bite. Its universal appeal lies in the way it brings familiar ingredients together in a way that feels both comforting and luxurious. For many home cooks, it becomes a staple not just because of its taste, but because it reliably turns out great every time.
Conclusion
Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is the epitome of cozy, crowd-pleasing cooking. It brings together everything people love in a comforting chicken dish: crispy texture, cheesy goodness, and straightforward preparation. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this recipe rewards you with delicious results that look and taste like they came from a professional kitchen.
More than just a copycat recipe, it’s a reminder that you don’t need a reservation to enjoy restaurant-style quality at home. With a few pantry staples, a bit of time, and a love for bold flavor, this Parmesan-crusted chicken can become the star of your weeknight dinner lineup or the highlight of your next family gathering.