This easy Parmesan chicken is crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-good! It features juicy chicken breasts coated with a tasty mixture of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, baked to perfection.
You won’t believe how simple it is to make! I love serving it with a side of pasta or salad for a complete meal. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds! 🍗💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are popular for their tenderness and quick cooking. For a twist, you can use chicken thighs, which add a bit more flavor. Just remember they might take a little longer to cook.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. If you need a dairy-free option, look for vegan cheeses that melt well.
Breading: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs are fantastic for flavor, but I sometimes use panko for extra crunch. If gluten is a concern, gluten-free breadcrumbs work too!
Eggs: Eggs help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. If you’re avoiding eggs, try using a mixture of unsweetened almond milk and flaxseed meal as a binding agent.
What’s the Best Technique for Evenly Cooking Chicken?
Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness is key for cooking. This helps them cook uniformly and prevents drying out. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thick.
- Be gentle; you want to flatten them, not shred them!
Once pounded, the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs more flavor from the breading, making it extra delicious!
Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- Optional: Fresh chopped parsley or additional Parmesan for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Parmesan chicken will take approximately 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook. Total time is about 40 minutes from start to finish, so it’s perfect for a lovely dinner any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for the chicken once you’ve finished preparing it.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This step is essential for ensuring that your chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy. Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag, and gently pound it with a meat mallet or rolling pin.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
4. Prepare the Breading:
In another shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well for an even coating.
5. Bread the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast, dip it first into the egg mixture, coating it thoroughly. Then, dredge it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the chicken to make sure they stick.
6. Fry the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, or until its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
8. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for a juicier bite.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Garnish your chicken with fresh chopped parsley or extra Parmesan if you’d like. Serve it up with your favorite sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes or crisp steamed vegetables!
Enjoy your homemade Longhorn Steakhouse-style Parmesan Chicken! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer a juicier cut. Just be aware that they may take a few extra minutes to cook through, so aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Make sure to check that your Parmesan cheese is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain additives.
How Should I Store Leftover Parmesan Chicken?
Store any leftovers 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 warmed through or microwave it in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid drying it out.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can bread the chicken and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before cooking. Just make sure to keep it covered to prevent contamination. If you’re prepping it further in advance, consider baking and then freezing it!
