If you’ve ever dreamed of a chicken dish that combines crispy, golden perfection with a burst of cheesy, savory flavor, then you’re about to fall in love with the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe. This recipe is an absolute gem for those who crave a crunchy exterior packed with Parmesan goodness while keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside. It’s easy to prepare, impressively flavorful, and perfect for both busy weeknights and special dinners with friends or family. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to become a staple in your recipe collection!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients is the first step to mastering the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe. Each component brings something special to the table—whether it’s the salty sharpness of Parmesan, the satisfying crunch from panko breadcrumbs, or the subtle warmth of garlic and onion powders, these ingredients perfectly complement each other to create a balanced dish.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Pounded to even thickness to ensure juicy, uniform cooking.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and helps create that irresistible crust.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides a crunchy texture that bakes beautifully.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: A light coating that helps the crust adhere perfectly to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Offers a subtle sweetness and aromatic quality.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a gentle heat and sharpness to balance richness.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as the glue for the coating, making sure it sticks well.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Lightens the egg wash for a smooth coating process.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken and adding subtle fruitiness.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness to the skillet and contributes to that beautiful golden crust.
How to Make Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and placing a rack in the center position for even cooking. Next, prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Take your chicken breasts and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to about 1/2 inch thickness—this is key to cooking the chicken evenly and keeping it tender.
Step 2: Make the Parmesan Crust Mix
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Thoroughly mix these ingredients to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the coating. This mixture forms the flavorful and crispy outer crust that makes this recipe so special.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a separate shallow bowl, whisk the eggs together with the milk until smooth and well blended. This egg wash is essential for helping the Parmesan crust mixture stick to the chicken, resulting in that iconic golden coating.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast fully in the egg wash, making sure both sides are coated. Then, immediately transfer it to the Parmesan crust mix and press gently on both sides until the chicken is completely covered. Lay the coated chicken on a plate ready for the next cooking phase.
Step 5: Pan-Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook each side for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the coating turns a beautiful golden brown. Flipping the chicken gently with tongs helps maintain the crust’s integrity during this step.
Step 6: Oven Bake to Finish
After searing, transfer the chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in your preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes once out of the oven—this locks in the juices and makes every bite thoroughly delicious.
How to Serve Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil make fantastic garnishes to brighten up the dish visually and add a hint of freshness. A lemon wedge on the side works beautifully, allowing you or your guests to squeeze a little tangy juice over the crust, which cuts through the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for balance. For a Texan-inspired feast, consider serving with a side of smoky grilled corn or a tangy coleslaw to complement the savory Parmesan crust.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe into an impressive plate by slicing the chicken and fanning it out over a bed of garlic butter rice or angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil and fresh herbs. Drizzle a little balsamic glaze or a simple tomato salsa over the top to elevate the presentation and add a flavor punch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Parmesan crusted chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled preserves its freshness and reduces the chance of the crust getting soggy before reheating.
Freezing
If you want to prep this recipe in advance, you can freeze the cooked chicken by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat and maintain that coveted crispy crust, the oven or an air fryer is your best friend. Heat the chicken at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the crust soft and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe and offer a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.
Is panko breadcrumb necessary, or can I use regular breadcrumbs?
Panko breadcrumbs are preferred because they offer extra crunch and a lighter texture. Regular breadcrumbs will still work but may produce a denser crust.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Make sure to check labels for any hidden gluten in seasonings.
What if I don’t have a meat mallet to pound the chicken?
No worries! You can use the bottom of a sturdy glass or a rolling pin. Just place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper first to prevent mess.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly juicy.
Final Thoughts
The Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that delivers both comfort and flair effortlessly. The incredible combination of flavors and textures makes it a joy to prepare and a delight to eat. I encourage you to give it a try soon—you might just find yourself craving it again and again. Happy cooking!
Print
Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy, flavorful parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust. The chicken is first pan-fried to achieve a golden crust and then finished in the oven for a juicy interior. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner that’s easy to make yet impressive in taste and texture.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Egg Wash
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
Cooking Fat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position a rack in the center of the oven to ensure even heat distribution during baking.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray to prevent the chicken from sticking after frying.
- Pound Chicken: Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken breasts to an even 1/2 inch thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
- Make Breading Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly for an even coating.
- Prepare Egg Wash: In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well blended to create a smooth coating liquid.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken breast fully into the egg wash. Then transfer to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat both sides evenly.
- Heat Skillet: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until butter melts and oil is hot, ready for frying.
- Sear Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until a golden brown crust forms. Use tongs to flip gently to keep the coating intact.
- Transfer to Baking Sheet: Once both sides are browned, move the chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Chicken: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute and ensure juiciness.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, allow the coated chicken to sit for 10 minutes before frying to help the breading adhere better.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness to prevent overcooking and retain juiciness.
- Substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
