Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Chicken is a fan favorite, known for its perfectly golden, crispy coating, juicy chicken, and rich, flavorful sauce. If you’ve ever enjoyed this dish at the restaurant, you’ll be thrilled to know that it’s easy to recreate at home. This recipe takes the essence of Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Chicken and brings it straight to your kitchen, where you can savor the same delicious, comforting meal with your family or guests.

The crispy Parmesan crust, combined with tender, perfectly cooked chicken, creates a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Parmesan chicken will impress every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Restaurant-Quality at Home

This recipe allows you to recreate the iconic Parmesan Chicken from Longhorn Steakhouse right in your own kitchen.

2. Crispy, Golden Coating

The Parmesan crust on the chicken is perfectly crispy and golden, adding texture and flavor to each bite.

3. Juicy Chicken

The chicken breasts are moist and tender, providing a delicious contrast to the crispy crust and creamy sauce.

4. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it a great option for a quick, satisfying dinner.

5. Versatile Side Pairings

The dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad, making it adaptable to your meal preferences.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
Panko breadcrumbs
Eggs (beaten)
All-purpose flour
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Butter
Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Variations

Add Extra Cheese: For a more decadent version, top the chicken with mozzarella or provolone cheese before baking for extra melty goodness.
Spicy Version: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the breading mixture or the sauce for a spicy kick.
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free alternatives for the cream and cheese for a dairy-free version of this dish.
Herb-Infused Breading: Mix in some dried oregano, basil, or thyme with the breadcrumbs for additional flavor in the crust.
Chicken Thighs: For a juicier alternative, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

In a shallow bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. In another bowl, lightly beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the flour. Dip each chicken breast into the flour, followed by the egg mixture, and then coat it in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure an even coating.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. The chicken should be cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes to allow the crust to crisp up further and the chicken to cook through.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

While the chicken is baking, prepare the creamy sauce. In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream, stirring until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 6: Serve

Once the chicken is done, place it on plates, and drizzle with the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt better and give a richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed. Overcrowding the pan will prevent the chicken from crisping properly.
Don’t Skip the Baking Step: While the chicken gets a golden crust in the skillet, the oven baking ensures it cooks all the way through and stays juicy.
Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) to avoid overcooking it.

How to Serve

This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce or pasta for a complete, hearty meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the chicken and sauce separate to maintain the chicken’s crispiness.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooked chicken breasts (without the sauce) in a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 2-3 months. When ready to reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’ve frozen the sauce separately, heat it in a saucepan on the stove while the chicken reheats.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, you can use bone-in chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for bone-in pieces, as they may take longer.

2. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

It’s best to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better melting and flavor, but pre-grated Parmesan will work in a pinch.

3. Can I make the creamy sauce without heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute with half-and-half or milk for a lighter sauce. However, the sauce won’t be as rich.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the breading mixture or the creamy sauce for a spicy kick.

5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well in this recipe, and they will remain juicier than chicken breasts.

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free for a gluten-free version of this dish.

7. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can bread the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just cook the chicken and assemble the dish when ready to serve.

8. Can I freeze the Parmesan Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken breasts. Just make sure to freeze them without the sauce, as it may separate when reheated.

9. What sides go best with Parmesan Chicken?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a side salad, or pasta all pair wonderfully with Parmesan Chicken.

10. How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C).

Conclusion

This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleasing, restaurant-quality dish that you can easily make at home. The combination of the crispy, golden Parmesan crust and creamy, rich sauce makes this chicken irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With easy-to-follow steps and a few key ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this delectable dish in no time!