This Easy Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is crispy, cheesy, and totally mouth-watering! Packed with juicy chicken and a golden crust, it’s comfort food at its best.
I love making this dish when I want a special meal without a lot of fuss. Just bake, and enjoy that cheesy goodness while I pretend I’m dining out! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you want to try something different, chicken thighs can add extra juiciness. They may take a little longer to cook, though, so keep an eye on the time!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use pre-grated, but it won’t blend as smoothly. For a different taste, Pecorino Romano works well too!
Breadcrumbs: Seasoned Italian breadcrumbs make this dish flavorful. If you can’t find them, plain breadcrumbs will work; just add a little Italian seasoning or some dried herbs for extra flavor.
Eggs and Milk: This mixture helps the coating stick. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use egg whites or a mix of yogurt and water instead.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Crispy on the Outside and Juicy Inside?
The secret to getting that perfect crispy coating while keeping the chicken moist is in the preparation and cooking method. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure to coat the chicken evenly in the egg wash and breadcrumb mixture. Press down lightly when coating to help it stick.
- Drizzling olive oil or melted butter over the top before baking helps develop a golden, crispy crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The chicken is ready when it reaches 165°F (74°C) inside.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist when you cut into it.
Easy Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (Italian style)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for drizzling)
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 to 30 minutes of cook time. So, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to give your chicken that nice golden color! Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
2. Prepare the Egg Wash:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk to create a simple egg wash. This is what will help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken.
3. Mix the Coating:
In another shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mixture is what gives the chicken its delicious crust!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and dip it into the egg wash, making sure it gets fully coated. Then, dredge it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help it stick well. The more the breadcrumbs stick, the crunchier your chicken will be!
5. Arrange in the Baking Dish:
Place your coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Don’t forget to drizzle a bit of olive oil or melted butter over the top; this will help them brown beautifully while baking.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You can check if they’re done by making sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once your chicken is out of the oven, you can sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely touch of color and flavor. Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a crisp salad for a complete meal!
Enjoy your homemade version of Longhorn’s delicious Parmesan Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more moisture and flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Be sure to check the labels for any potential gluten-containing ingredients.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the point of baking. Simply coat the chicken breasts and place them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option—but keep in mind the coating may not stay as crispy!