This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is a chicken lover’s dream! Tender chicken breasts are baked with a crispy, cheesy topping that makes every bite so tasty.
Who doesn’t love a dinner that feels fancy but is easy to make? I often serve it with pasta or a side salad for a complete meal that impresses my friends!
I really enjoy how quick it is to whip up this dish. Just a few simple steps and you have a delicious meal everyone will love. It’s a winner in my house!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts create a tender and juicy base. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor and moisture.
Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs: These add great flavor and texture. If you have plain breadcrumbs, you can mix in Italian seasoning or herbs like oregano and basil for a similar effect.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives that classic cheesy flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works well too, or you can use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a milder taste.
Mayonnaise: This helps keep the chicken moist and gives a creamy base for the breadcrumbs. If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute.
How Do I Get the Coating Extra Crispy?
Getting a crispy topping on your chicken is all about layering flavors and keeping it moist. The mayonnaise not only adds moisture but also helps the breadcrumbs to stick better. When you coat the chicken:
- Make sure to press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken.
- Drizzling melted butter over top helps achieve a perfect golden crust.
- Ensure your oven is preheated to the right temperature so the coating cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.
Following these tips will have your chicken perfectly crispy and bursting with flavor!
Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing)
Time Needed:
This delicious dish will take around 5-10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes to have a mouthwatering meal ready!
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish using cooking spray or drizzle some olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a mixing bowl, combine the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Stir it all together until well mixed.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps the coating stick better. Place them on a plate, ready for the flavor!
4. Add Mayonnaise:
Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise evenly over the top of each chicken breast. This keeps the chicken moist and helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere beautifully.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Now, dip each mayonnaise-coated chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture. Press it gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick well to the chicken.
6. Arrange in Baking Dish:
Place the coated chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish, making sure they are not crowded, so they cook evenly.
7. Drizzle with Butter:
Take the melted butter and drizzle it evenly over the coated chicken breasts. This little step will help achieve that perfect golden and crispy crust!
8. Bake:
Pop the chicken in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes. The aroma will be fantastic!
9. Add Mozzarella:
After 20 minutes, carefully remove the chicken from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over each chicken piece.
10. Final Bake:
Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
11. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, garnish your beautiful chicken with some freshly chopped parsley before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor!
12. Enjoy!
Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your homemade Longhorn Parmesan Chicken!
This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken topped with a crispy, cheesy Parmesan crust, just like at Longhorn Steakhouse! Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Yes! While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the chicken and coat it with breadcrumbs a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if it goes in cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain the crispy texture.
Can I Freeze the Prepared Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the coated chicken before baking! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
