Easy Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

If you’ve ever craved the crispy, flavorful delight of restaurant-quality chicken right in your own kitchen, this Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is exactly what you need. Perfectly golden, with a crunchy parmesan crust and tender inside, this dish combines simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that’s both satisfying and easy to whip up any night of the week. It’s a homemade spin that captures the charm and flavor of Longhorn Steakhouse’s popular entrée, making it a fantastic option for a family dinner or casual gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Uses straightforward ingredients and simple steps, so you can have dinner ready faster than you think.
• Deliciously Crispy: The parmesan crust creates a perfect crunch without needing deep frying.
• Versatile Flavor: The recipe’s balance of garlic, cheese, and herbs complements a variety of sides.
• Great for Leftovers: Cooks evenly and tastes fantastic as next-day meals.
• Kid-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to adults and children alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken uses a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to make the crust flavorful and satisfying, while keeping the chicken juicy and tender.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide lean protein and a tender base for the crust.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds rich, nutty flavor and helps the crust crisp beautifully.
• Panko breadcrumbs: These light, flaky breadcrumbs contribute to a crispy texture without heaviness.
• Garlic powder: Gives a subtle, savory depth that enhances the overall flavor.
• Dried Italian herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme offers fragrant herbal notes.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs help the coating adhere perfectly to the chicken.
• All-purpose flour: Creates a light layer for the crust to stick on and helps seal moisture inside the chicken.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances and balances all the flavors.
• Olive oil or butter: For cooking, adding even more flavor and encouraging browning on the crust.

Variations for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you want to switch up the seasonings, adjust for dietary preferences, or add some extra zing, these variations show you how flexible this dish can be.

• Spicy Crust: Add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix for a subtle kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive folks.
• Herb Variations: Swap Italian herbs for fresh rosemary or thyme for a slightly different aromatic twist.
• Cheese Swap: Try sharp cheddar or asiago in place of parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Low-Fat Version: Bake the chicken instead of pan-frying, using a cooking spray instead of olive oil.

How to Make Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts, then gently pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking. This step ensures your chicken cooks thoroughly and stays juicy.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of panko, grated parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian herbs. This setup makes the breading process quick and efficient.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the egg, and finally press firmly into the parmesan breadcrumb mixture to ensure a thick, even crust.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil or butter over medium heat in a skillet and cook the coated chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The crust should be crispy and the inside tender and juicy.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest on a wire rack or plate for a few minutes to lock in juices and keep the crust crisp.

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Even Thickness: Pounding chicken breasts ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
• Fresh Parmesan: Use freshly grated cheese, not pre-grated, for the best flavor and crust texture.
• Pressing Breadcrumbs: Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken for a thicker, crunchier crust.
• Use Medium Heat: Cooking over medium heat allows crust to brown nicely without burning.
• Let It Rest: Resting chicken after cooking keeps it juicy and flavorful.

How to Serve Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or basil makes a beautiful, fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness to the rich parmesan crust.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs wonderfully with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad, balancing the richness with fresh or creamy textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the chicken and serve over a bed of pasta tossed with olive oil and veggies, or stack with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella for a tasty parmesan chicken sandwich or salad topper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, ensuring to keep the crust intact and the meat juicy.

Freezing

Wrap cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to maintain the crispiness of the parmesan crust, avoiding sogginess from the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and provide extra juiciness, though cooking times may vary slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Absolutely; just swap the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to keep the dish safe and delicious.

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?

Asiago or Pecorino Romano are great substitutes that provide a similar salty, nutty flavor in the crust.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, baking at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes gives a healthier option, though the crust may be slightly less crispy.

How do I make the crust extra crispy?

Use freshly grated parmesan, press the breadcrumbs firmly, and fry in hot oil at medium heat to achieve the best crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a flavorful, approachable way to bring your favorite restaurant dish to your kitchen table. With easy steps, adaptable ingredients, and a fantastic crunch, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy that perfectly cheesy, crispy chicken anytime you crave!

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