If you’re dreaming of restaurant-quality chicken right from your own kitchen, Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse is the dish to make. Think golden, crunchy crusts, layers of gooey cheese, and perfectly seasoned chicken—every bite is pure comfort. This crowd-pleasing recipe gives you everything you love about a steakhouse favorite, but with the familiarity and warmth of homemade cooking. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish always gets rave reviews and is sure to make you feel like a chef in your own home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish comes together with everyday staples, each one working hard to add crunch, savoriness, and that signature cheesy finish. Grab these essentials—the magic is in how they combine for irresistible flavor and texture!
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for easy prep and maximum tenderness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated or high-quality pre-grated Parmesan brings salty, nutty richness to the crust.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style crumbs ensure the extra-crispy, airy coating that distinguishes this dish.
- All-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick and creates a sturdy base layer for maximum crunch.
- Large egg: Acts as the binder, making sure every piece gets that golden crust.
- Milk: Loosens the egg for easy coating and a lighter finish.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle savoriness that infuses the chicken with flavor.
- Onion powder: Rounds out the seasoning blend for true depth.
- Paprika: Adds a pop of color and gentle warmth.
- Salt: Enhances every bite and ties all the flavors together.
- Black pepper: Brings mild heat and balance.
- Olive oil: Gives the crust that gorgeous, restaurant-style browning.
- Butter: Melds with the oil for rich flavor and even cooking.
- Shredded provolone cheese: Delivers melty, creamy goodness that’s irresistible on top.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings a blanket of stretchy, cheesy bliss to finish the dish.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a pop of fresh color and lightness just before serving.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
For ultimate juiciness and even cooking, start by pounding your chicken breasts to an even thickness. Lay them between two pieces of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin. You’re aiming for about half an inch thick, so the chicken cooks quickly and stays delightfully tender.
Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station
This is where the magic starts! Grab three shallow bowls. In the first, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In the second, whisk together the egg and milk until frothy. In the last bowl, mix the grated Parmesan with panko breadcrumbs. This three-step process ensures your Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse gets its signature double-crunchy coating that adheres perfectly.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
Carefully coat each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip into the egg mixture so every little nook is covered. Last, press the chicken firmly into the Parmesan-panko blend. Take your time here—press extra so the coating sticks well and turns gloriously crisp when cooked.
Step 4: Sear and Cook
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. When it’s shimmering and the butter’s melted, gently lay in the coated chicken. Let it cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side. The coating will turn beautifully golden brown while the inside cooks up juicy. If needed, adjust the heat so the crust crisps up but doesn’t burn.
Step 5: Add the Cheese Finish
When the chicken is almost done, top each piece with a generous sprinkle of provolone and mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet for the last minute so the cheeses melt into a dreamy, bubbling topping—this step transforms it from simple breaded chicken to true Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the chicken to plates and shower with fresh parsley if you like. This final touch adds color and just the right hint of freshness, turning the meal into a feast for both eyes and tastebuds.
How to Serve Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse
Garnishes
Bright green parsley brings a welcome freshness to balance all that cheesy, savory goodness. You could also try a few thin lemon slices for a citrusy lift or even a light sprinkle of extra Parmesan for cheese lovers. A finishing drizzle of olive oil or a crack of black pepper adds a simple, elegant touch.
Side Dishes
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse goes beautifully with almost anything—classic mashed potatoes, garlicky green beans, or a bright, crunchy salad are all perfect. For a lighter touch, pair with roasted veggies or a tangle of lemony arugula. Try garlic bread or buttery corn if you’re feeling indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bistro-style meal, slice the chicken atop a Caesar salad or a bowl of creamy risotto. Make sandwiches by tucking pieces into a soft bun with tomato, fresh basil, and a smear of aioli. For parties, slice into strips and serve with marinara or ranch for delicious, dippable bites. The possibilities are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse stores nicely in the fridge for up to three days. Let the chicken cool completely, then place in an airtight container. To keep the crust as crisp as possible, don’t stack the pieces—let each one sit flat if you can.
Freezing
If you’d like to save extra chicken for later, freeze it after cooking and cooling. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or foil, then store in a freezer bag. It’ll stay tasty for up to two months. For best results, let thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
The secret to reviving that crispy crust is using an oven or toaster oven. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until heated through and the coating is crisp again. If you’re in a hurry, an air fryer works like a dream, bringing back the crunch in just a few minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to soften the crust.
FAQs
Do I really need to use both provolone and mozzarella cheese?
Provolone and mozzarella add different textures and flavors—provolone for creamy melt, mozzarella for stringy stretch. Together, they create the luxurious cheese topping that makes this Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse so special, but you can use just one if that’s what you have.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and tend to be even juicier. Just adjust cooking time as needed—thighs may need a minute or two longer per side to cook through.
Is it possible to bake instead of fry?
Yes! For a lighter spin, arrange the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet and spray lightly with oil. Bake at 425°F for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through. You won’t get quite the same skillet-fried crunch, but the flavors still shine and cleanup is a breeze.
What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but panko offers that signature light and crispy texture that makes this version so much like the restaurant classic. You can also try crushed cornflakes for extra crunch!
Can I make this ahead for a dinner party?
You sure can! Prep and bread the chicken in advance, then refrigerate, uncooked, for up to a few hours. Simply fry and finish with cheese just before serving for the freshest, crispiest outcome. It’s a lifesaver for entertaining!
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse never goes out of style—it’s that magical combination of crunch, juiciness, and cheesy comfort you’ll want to make again and again. Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s destined to become your new weeknight favorite. Happy cooking!
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Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is inspired by the popular dish from Longhorn Steakhouse. It features tender chicken breasts coated in a crunchy Parmesan and panko breadcrumb mixture, pan-seared to perfection, and topped with a blend of melted cheeses.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Breading:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Egg Wash:
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Pound the chicken breasts: Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Prepare breading stations: Set up three shallow bowls for the flour mixture, egg wash, and Parmesan-panko coating.
- Bread the chicken: Coat each chicken breast in flour, then egg wash, and finally the Parmesan-panko mixture.
- Cook the chicken: Sear the breaded chicken in olive oil and butter until golden and cooked through.
- Add cheese: Top each piece with provolone and mozzarella cheese to melt.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk before breading.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
