Looking for a savory, crispy chicken dish that will make your taste buds sing? This Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect solution! 🍽️✨
If you love dishes with a golden, crispy crust and a rich, cheesy flavor, you’re going to adore this Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Inspired by the popular restaurant recipe, this homemade version delivers all the flavors you crave—without needing to leave the comfort of your home. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this dish will surely impress! 😍
This recipe is not just a chicken dish; it’s an experience. A crispy, golden crust, perfectly seasoned and packed with flavor, paired with tender, juicy chicken breast—it’s what every comfort food lover dreams of! So, let’s dive right into how you can make this crowd-pleasing dish from scratch. 👩🍳
What Makes Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken So Special? 🍗🧀
The Parmesan crust adds an irresistible crunch, while the moist chicken breast ensures that each bite is juicy and flavorful. The secret is in the seasoning and the perfectly balanced coating that combines breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a few other simple ingredients. This dish is the perfect example of how a few quality ingredients can come together to create a memorable meal. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or something special for the weekend, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
In fact, if you’re a fan of crispy chicken dishes, you might also want to try our Crispy Baked Chicken Wings, which delivers a similar crunch but with a bit of a spicy kick! 🌶️
Ingredients You’ll Need 🛒
To make this Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients. Most of them are kitchen staples, but the combination of Parmesan and breadcrumbs is what sets this recipe apart. So, let’s gather everything you need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🐔 (make sure they’re evenly sized for even cooking)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crispiness) 🍞
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀 (freshly grated for the best flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 🧄 (for that savory depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 🧅 (to add a slight sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 🌿 (for the perfect herby touch)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂 (to enhance the flavors)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 🌶️ (to balance the seasoning)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 🧈 (adds richness to the crust)
- 1/4 cup olive oil 🫒 (helps to crisp up the chicken)
By combining these ingredients, you’ll create a flavorful and crunchy crust that will be the star of your meal. Let’s move on to the preparation steps!
How to Make Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken 👩🍳
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This process is straightforward, and in no time, you’ll be enjoying your crispy, Parmesan-crusted chicken.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken 🍗
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). You want the oven nice and hot to ensure the chicken crisps up perfectly. While the oven is heating, take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and tenderize them. Using a meat mallet, gently pound them to an even thickness, about 1 inch thick. This step ensures that the chicken cooks evenly, so you don’t end up with any dry spots. 💪
Once the chicken is ready, pat it dry with a paper towel. This removes any excess moisture, which will help the Parmesan crust stick better. Plus, it’ll crisp up more evenly in the oven. Dry chicken = crispy crust! 😏
Step 2: Prepare the Parmesan Crust Coating 🧑🍳
In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s evenly mixed. The Parmesan cheese adds that rich, nutty flavor, while the breadcrumbs ensure that perfect crunch. Panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended because they give a lighter, airier texture, which results in an even crispier finish. 🥖
For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or a dash of lemon zest for a fresh citrusy note. 🍋 These optional additions can take your crust to the next level!
Step 3: Coat the Chicken 🧀
Now that the crust mixture is ready, it’s time to coat the chicken. Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, making sure it’s fully coated. This helps the crust stick and adds that golden, crispy finish. Don’t skip this step! The butter is essential to getting the perfect crispy crust. 🧈
After dipping in butter, dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating sticks well. You want an even layer, but don’t worry if it gets a bit thick—it’ll only add to the crispy texture! 🔥
Once each piece of chicken is coated, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking dish. This prevents the chicken from sticking and ensures the crust stays intact as it bakes.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection 🔥
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts to help them crisp up in the oven. The oil also enhances the flavor of the crust, making it even more delicious. You can also brush a little extra butter on top of the chicken for added richness if you’d like! 🧈
Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and crispy. To ensure that the chicken is cooked all the way through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). This ensures that your chicken will be juicy and tender, not dry! 🍗
Once it’s done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making sure each bite is moist and flavorful. 🌟
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy! 🍽️
Serve your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken with your favorite sides! You can pair it with Garlic Mashed Potatoes 🥔, Simple Caesar Salad 🥗, or even some roasted vegetables 🥦. The crispy, cheesy chicken pairs wonderfully with just about anything, making it a versatile and satisfying meal. Enjoy the crunchy perfection and savor every bite!
Tips for the Best Parmesan Crusted Chicken 📝
Here are a few tips to elevate your dish even further and ensure it turns out perfect every time:
- Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor, opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese can sometimes have anti-caking agents, which can affect the texture and taste. Grate your own from a block of cheese to get the best melt and flavor. 🧀
- Don’t Skip the Butter: As mentioned earlier, the butter is key to getting that golden, crispy crust. You can even use a mix of butter and olive oil for a slightly different flavor profile, but don’t skimp on this crucial step! 🧈
- Season to Taste: If you want to add a personal twist to this dish, feel free to experiment with additional seasonings. A pinch of smoked paprika adds a nice depth of flavor, or a bit of oregano can give it an even more Italian flair. 🌿
- Make it Extra Crispy: If you love an ultra-crunchy coating, try placing the chicken under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just make sure to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning! 🔥
Nutrition Information 🍴
Here’s the approximate nutrition breakdown for one serving of Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken (assuming 4 servings total):
- Calories: 400-450 kcal
- Protein: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. It’s also high in protein, so it will keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer! 🏋️♀️
Internal Linking Opportunities 📚
As you explore this recipe, you might want to check out more of our delicious dishes! Here are some great internal linking suggestions to enhance your experience:
- Looking for the perfect side dish to complement your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken? Try our Garlic Mashed Potatoes, which are creamy, buttery, and a perfect balance to the crispy chicken.
- Craving more chicken recipes? Don’t miss our Crispy Baked Chicken Wings—another crowd-pleasing dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds! 🍗
- For another Italian-inspired dish, check out our Easy Chicken Parmesan. It’s another cheesy, delicious option that’s just as satisfying as this Parmesan-crusted version. 🍝
- If you’re looking for a fresh, light salad to pair with your meal, be sure to try our Simple Caesar Salad. It’s the perfect refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken! 🥗
Why You’ll Love This Recipe 😍
This Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is not just a dinner option; it’s an experience. The crunchy, cheesy coating contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken, creating a balance of textures that your family and friends will love. It’s an easy recipe that feels luxurious, perfect for any night of the week.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, this dish guarantees a satisfying and flavorful meal. Plus, it’s versatile! Pair it with a variety of sides, and you’ll find yourself making this recipe over and over again. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and start cooking this incredible dish tonight! 🍴
Conclusion 🏆
If you’re looking for a deliciously crispy and cheesy chicken dinner, this Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is the answer. With minimal ingredients and a simple process, it’s a showstopper that will quickly become one of your go-to meals. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy every bite!
Related Recipes to Explore 📖
PrintLonghorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A Crispy, Cheesy Delight | Easy Recipe🍽️✨
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
LongHorn’s Parmesan-Crusted Chicken is a restaurant-inspired dish known for its crispy, golden-brown crust and juicy, tender chicken breast. The chicken is coated with a flavorful mixture of Parmesan cheese and seasonings, then pan-seared to perfection. Served with a creamy, garlicky Alfredo-style sauce, this dish delivers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. It’s an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
For the Chicken:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even thickness, about 1/2-inch thick. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Prepare the Breading Station:
- In one shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a second shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
- In a third shallow bowl, add the all-purpose flour.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, ensuring both sides are lightly coated. Then dip it in the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off, and finally coat it in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (but not smoking), add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish the Dish:
- Pour the creamy Alfredo sauce over the cooked chicken breasts. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for added color and freshness.
- Serve:
- Serve the Parmesan-crusted chicken with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.
Notes
- Chicken Breasts: If the chicken breasts are particularly thick, you can slice them in half horizontally to make them thinner, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Make-Ahead: You can bread the chicken ahead of time, then store it in the fridge for up to 1 hour before cooking. This will give the breading time to set and help it stay crispy during cooking.
- Sauce Variations: For a lighter version of the Alfredo sauce, you can substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be a little less rich.
- Sides: Serve with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or pasta to make it a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: dinner
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 46g
- Cholesterol: 180mg