Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Craving that restaurant-quality chicken dish that makes Longhorn Steakhouse famous? You’re in for a treat! This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe brings the beloved flavors of this popular chain restaurant straight to your kitchen.

With its golden, crispy coating and rich Parmesan flavor, this dish has become a signature favorite that keeps diners coming back. I’ll show you exactly how to recreate this masterpiece at home with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps that guarantee restaurant-quality results every time.

What is Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken?

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a tender, juicy chicken breast that’s been seasoned, breaded with a special Parmesan coating, and cooked to golden perfection. What sets this dish apart is its unique blend of seasonings and the generous use of freshly grated Parmesan cheese in the breading mixture.

The chicken is typically served with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables, but it pairs beautifully with any of your favorite sides. The secret lies in the seasoning blend and the cooking technique that ensures the chicken stays moist on the inside while developing that irresistible crispy exterior.

This copycat recipe captures all the flavors that make the original so special, allowing you to enjoy this restaurant favorite whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredients List for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1½ cups Italian breadcrumbs
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

How to Cook Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this restaurant-quality chicken at home is easier than you might think. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your Parmesan chicken turns out perfectly every time:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Remove chicken breasts from the refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature.
• Place each chicken breast between plastic wrap or parchment paper.
• Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound to an even thickness of about ¾ inch.
• This ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from drying out.

2. Set Up Your Breading Station:

• Arrange three shallow dishes in a row on your counter.
• In the first dish, place the flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper.
• In the second dish, beat the eggs until smooth and well combined.
• In the third dish, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using.

3. Season the Chicken:

• Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels.
• Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
• Let the seasoned chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

4. Bread the Chicken:

• Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess.
• Dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring complete coverage.
• Press firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.
• Gently press the coating onto the chicken to help it adhere.
• Place breaded chicken on a wire rack and let rest for 10 minutes.

5. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
• When the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts.
• Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving, until golden brown.
• Flip carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the second side is golden.
• Transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes.
• Check that internal temperature reaches 165°F with a meat thermometer.

6. Rest and Serve:

• Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
• This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to customize this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe? Here are some great substitutions and variations to try:

• Cheese Options: Replace Parmesan with Romano, Asiago, or a mixture of Italian cheeses for different flavor profiles.
• Breadcrumb Alternatives: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, or make your own breadcrumbs from stale bread.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Protein Swaps: This coating works wonderfully on pork chops, veal cutlets, or even thick fish fillets like cod or halibut.
• Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes to increase heat, or omit entirely for a milder version.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano can be added to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor depth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your dish turns out restaurant-perfect:

• Skipping the Pounding Step: Uneven thickness leads to overcooked edges and undercooked centers. Always pound to uniform thickness.
• Not Letting Coating Rest: Allowing the breaded chicken to rest helps the coating adhere better during cooking.
• Oil Temperature Too High: Cooking at too high heat will burn the coating before the chicken cooks through. Medium-high heat is ideal.
• Moving the Chicken Too Soon: Let the chicken develop a proper crust before flipping to prevent the coating from sticking to the pan.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the chicken and preventing proper browning.
• Not Using Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt and brown as well as freshly grated Parmesan.

How to Serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

This versatile chicken dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a complete restaurant-style meal. Serve it alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli for the classic Longhorn experience.

For a lighter option, pair with a crisp Caesar salad and roasted vegetables. The chicken also works wonderfully sliced over pasta with marinara sauce, creating an Italian-inspired meal.

Consider serving with wild rice pilaf, roasted asparagus, or a medley of seasonal vegetables. A crusty dinner roll or garlic bread complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Presentation Ideas for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Make your homemade Parmesan chicken look as impressive as it tastes with these presentation tips:

• Elegant Plating: Slice the chicken diagonally and fan it out on the plate for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Colorful Garnish: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme alongside the parsley for visual interest.
• Sauce Drizzle: A light drizzle of lemon butter sauce or herb oil around the plate adds professional flair.
• Vegetable Arrangement: Arrange colorful roasted vegetables artfully around the chicken for a complete, appetizing presentation.

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe Tips

Here are my top tips for achieving the best results with this recipe:

• Temperature Control: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches exactly 165°F internal temperature.
• Quality Ingredients: Invest in good-quality Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for the best flavor.
• Proper Oil Temperature: Test oil temperature with a small piece of breadcrumb – it should sizzle immediately.
• Don’t Skip the Rest: Both the initial coating rest and the post-cooking rest are crucial for optimal results.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can bread the chicken up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.
• Double Coating: For extra crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double layer.

How to Store Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers safely and deliciously. Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking.

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To maintain the crispy coating, place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture.

For longer storage, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, place on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as this will make the coating soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bread the chicken up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate. This actually helps the coating adhere better during cooking.

Q: What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
A: You can transfer the partially cooked chicken to a baking sheet and finish in the oven, though an oven-safe skillet gives the best results.

Q: Can I air fry this chicken?
A: Absolutely! Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray lightly with cooking oil for best browning.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The juices should run clear when the chicken is properly cooked.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, but adjust cooking time as thighs may take a few minutes longer. Ensure they reach the same internal temperature of 165°F.

Q: Why is my coating falling off?
A: Make sure the chicken is completely dry before breading, press the coating firmly, and let it rest before cooking. Also, avoid moving the chicken too early during cooking.

Conclusion

This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe brings the beloved restaurant experience right to your home kitchen. With its golden, crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior, this dish delivers all the flavors that make the original so popular.

The key to success lies in proper preparation, quality ingredients, and careful attention to cooking temperatures and timing. By following these detailed instructions and tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality meal that rivals anything you’d get at Longhorn Steakhouse.

Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner, entertaining guests, or simply treating your family to something extraordinary, this Parmesan chicken recipe is sure to impress. The combination of crispy coating, rich Parmesan flavor, and perfectly cooked chicken creates a dining experience that’s both satisfying and memorable.

So fire up your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. This homemade version of Longhorn’s famous Parmesan chicken proves that restaurant-quality meals are absolutely achievable in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!