Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn Copycat

If you’ve ever visited Longhorn Steakhouse and fallen in love with their crispy, golden Parmesan Crusted Chicken, now you can bring that exact flavor into your own kitchen. This Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat) recipe is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that perfectly captures the rich, crunchy texture and savory taste that makes it a restaurant favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or an impressive weeknight meal, this copycat recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: This recipe replicates the mouthwatering, cheesy crunch of the original Longhorn dish.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples, making it easy and budget-friendly to prepare.
• Crispy Texture: Achieves a perfect golden crust that stays crunchy without getting soggy.
• Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
• Family-Friendly: Appeals to kids and adults alike with its savory and satisfying taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to capturing the delicious essence of Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat). Each ingredient has a specific role, adding layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal that truly make this dish stand out.

• Boneless Chicken Breasts: Choose fresh, skinless breasts for tender, juicy meat that crisps beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: The star of the crust, providing a sharp, salty flavor and crunchy texture.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These airy crumbs give the crust extra crispness without weighing it down.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle but essential savory depth that complements the cheese.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil that bring warmth and complexity.
• Eggs: Used to bind the crust to the chicken and ensure even coverage.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps the egg wash stick, allowing the crust to cling perfectly.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and mix.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For frying, providing a golden finish and a rich taste.

Variations for Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat)

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat) recipe is easy to customize based on your preferences, dietary needs, or ingredient availability. Feel free to experiment and make it your own.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a subtle heat.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use cornstarch instead of flour.
• Herb Freshness: Replace Italian seasoning with fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary for a garden-fresh note.
• Cheese Twist: Mix Parmesan with shredded mozzarella or sharp cheddar for a cheesy blend.
• Oven-Baked Version: Skip frying and bake the coated chicken at 400°F until crispy for a lighter option.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat)

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts and patting them dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well and fries to a crisp texture.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In three shallow bowls, place the flour seasoned lightly with salt and pepper, beaten eggs mixed with a splash of water, and the breadcrumb mixture (combine panko, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper).

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, shaking off excess, then into the egg, and finally press it firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring every inch is covered for maximum crunch.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat olive oil or butter over medium heat in a skillet. Fry the coated chicken breasts for 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes on a wire rack or paper towels to maintain its crispness before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat)

• Dry Chicken is Key: Patting the chicken dry before breading helps the coating stick and fry up crispy.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a more flavorful crust than pre-shredded bags.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if needed, to keep the oil temperature steady and ensure even frying.
• Maintain Medium Heat: Too hot, and the crust burns before chicken cooks; too low, and it gets soggy.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest briefly after frying to let the juices redistribute and the crust set perfectly.

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat)

Garnishes

Top your Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat) with freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal aroma that balances the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This crispy chicken pairs delightfully with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a simple Caesar salad for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the chicken and serve it atop a bed of garlic butter pasta or a vibrant arugula salad, drizzled with a light lemon vinaigrette for an elevated presentation that wows.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, keeping the crispness intact by reheating properly.

Freezing

Wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing; it’s best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through to preserve the crunchy crust instead of microwaving, which can make it soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and may even add extra juiciness while still crisping up nicely with the Parmesan crust.

Is it necessary to fry the chicken, or can I bake it?

You can bake the chicken for a lighter version; just coat as usual and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure even crisping.

How do I keep the crust crispy after cooking?

Allowing the chicken to rest on a wire rack instead of a plate prevents steam and sogginess, keeping the crust crunchy longer.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use an oil suitable for frying instead of butter.

What sides go best with Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat)?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or a crisp salad complement the rich, crispy chicken perfectly for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like enjoying the crispy, cheesy goodness of Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat) made right at home. With simple ingredients and clear steps, this recipe lets you recreate a beloved restaurant dish that’s guaranteed to impress. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your dinner rotation!

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