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If you’re craving a dish that combines crispy, golden crusts with tender, juicy chicken and a burst of savory Parmesan flavor, the Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe is an absolute winner you’ll want to make again and again. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of crunchy Italian breadcrumbs, nutty Parmesan, and subtle garlic seasoning wrapped around the chicken breasts, creating a mouthwatering experience that can lift an everyday dinner into something truly special. This recipe is straightforward enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for guests, making it an all-around favorite in any kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the perfect Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe. These simple, fresh items come together to deliver incredible taste, texture, and an inviting golden color that will have you eager to dig in.
- 4 chicken breasts: The star protein, make sure they’re evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs: Adds that essential crispy crunch and herby Italian flavor.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Provides a sharp, nutty richness that elevates the coating.
- 1/4 cup flour: Helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick perfectly to each piece of chicken.
- 1 egg, beaten: Binds the breadcrumbs and cheese to the chicken for that perfect crust.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Delivers a fragrant, savory kick that complements the Parmesan beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 tsp pepper: Adds a mild heat for subtle complexity.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For that golden sear and extra flavor during browning.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes and visual appeal.
How to Make Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet to keep the chicken from sticking and to make clean-up a breeze. This sets the stage for a tender bake after the flavorful searing.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Organize your workspace with three separate bowls: one with Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper mixed together for that signature flavor bomb; one with flour; and a third with the beaten egg. This setup makes the breading process smooth and ensures every piece is evenly coated.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Take each chicken breast and first dredge it in the flour, which creates a dry base to help the egg cling properly. Then dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring every curve is covered. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, giving it a gentle pat to secure the crunchy Parmesan and herb coating all over. This triple-step guarantees each bite will be perfectly crisp.
Step 4: Brown the Chicken
Heat your olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully lay the coated chicken breasts in the pan and cook them for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown—this step locks in juices and forms a beautifully crisp exterior that you’ll love.
Step 5: Bake
Transfer the browned chicken breasts to your prepared baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This finishing bake ensures each piece is cooked through and tender inside while maintaining that luscious crust.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken. This final touch adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the cheesy crust beautifully.
How to Serve Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A little goes a long way here. Freshly chopped parsley adds vibrancy and a clean, fresh aroma that contrasts deliciously with the savory Parmesan. A wedge of lemon on the side can also lift the flavors with a touch of brightness if you’re feeling a bit adventurous.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with simple sides like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad. Each side dish complements the richness of the Parmesan crust, balancing the meal with especially fresh or creamy textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of spaghetti tossed in a light marinara or pesto sauce. You could also serve these crispy chicken breasts atop a warm grain salad or alongside grilled asparagus for an elegant dinner presentation that will impress anyone at your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days to maintain its texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap each cooked chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, perfect for a quick protein fix on a busy night.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy crust, reheat leftovers in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. This method avoids sogginess and helps maintain the original texture and flavor just like freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a juicier, more flavorful alternative, but be sure to adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked through.
Is it necessary to brown the chicken before baking?
Browning adds a wonderful golden crust and seals in moisture, but you could skip this step if pressed for time, though the texture won’t be quite the same.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the Italian breadcrumbs and flour with gluten-free alternatives, and you’ll still get that tasty, crunchy coating.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are great alternatives if you want a different but similar bold flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should reach 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked and safe to eat.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe, it might just become one of your go-to meals. Its crispy, cheesy crust and juicy chicken center make every bite a joy, and it’s surprisingly easy to pull together anytime you want something comforting yet fancy. Give it a whirl—you’ll love how it transforms your dinner table into something truly delicious!
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Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is a deliciously crispy and flavorful dish featuring breaded chicken breasts coated with Italian breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, browned in olive oil, then baked to tender perfection. Garnished with fresh parsley, this recipe delivers a satisfying balance of cheesy crunch and juicy chicken, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts
Breading:
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper mixed together; the second with flour; and the third with the beaten egg. This setup will make the breading process efficient and even.
- Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken breast and first dredge it in the flour, shaking off excess. Then dip it into the beaten egg, allowing the egg to fully coat the chicken. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture thoroughly to achieve a flavorful, crunchy coating.
- Browning the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful, golden brown crust. This step locks in flavor and adds an appealing texture before baking.
- Bake: Transfer the browned chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and serve immediately for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can double dip the chicken by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (74°C).
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
