Indulge in this restaurant-style Parmesan-Crusted Chicken, inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse! This dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy Parmesan and panko crust, baked to perfection and finished with gooey melted mozzarella. The perfect blend of Italian seasonings and garlic butter makes this recipe a true crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this easy Parmesan Chicken is your answer. Serve it alongside a fresh salad, buttery mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies for a well-balanced meal. Simple to prepare yet bursting with rich flavors, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a shallow bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, combine melted butter, mayonnaise, and olive oil.
- Coat each chicken breast with the butter mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Dredge the coated chicken in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the chicken breasts on a greased baking dish and sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top and broil until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Origin and Inspiration
This Parmesan-Crusted Chicken recipe is inspired by the popular dish served at Longhorn Steakhouse, known for its rich, cheesy crust and tender, juicy chicken. It’s a perfect combination of crispy textures and savory flavors, making it a go-to meal for both casual and special occasions. By recreating this dish at home, you get to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the cost of dining out.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Crispy Parmesan Crust – The blend of Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs creates a crispy, golden-brown coating that locks in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy.
- Flavor-Packed Coating – Instead of a simple breadcrumb mix, this recipe includes garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika, enhancing the overall taste.
- Melty Mozzarella Finish – The final touch of shredded mozzarella adds a gooey, cheesy layer that makes every bite irresistible.
- Quick and Easy – With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a baking time of 25 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
Tips for Perfect Parmesan-Crusted Chicken
- Use Fresh Parmesan – Grated Parmesan from a block melts and blends better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
- Opt for Panko Breadcrumbs – These provide a crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness – During the last few minutes of baking, switch the oven to broil to achieve a golden, crispy top.
- Let It Rest – Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps retain its juices.
What to Serve with Parmesan Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes:
- Mashed Potatoes – A creamy, buttery contrast to the crispy chicken.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a fresh balance.
- Garlic Butter Pasta – A simple yet flavorful side to complement the chicken.
- Fresh Garden Salad – A light, tangy salad helps balance the richness of the dish.
Variations and Customizations
- Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the coating mix for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Air Fryer Method – Instead of baking, air fry the coated chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through for an evenly crispy texture.
- Low-Carb Version – Swap panko for crushed pork rinds to create a keto-friendly alternative.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap each cooked chicken breast individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
This homemade Parmesan-Crusted Chicken is an excellent way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Its crispy exterior, cheesy goodness, and tender chicken make it a must-try recipe for any occasion. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this dish will always be a hit!
Ingredients Breakdown & Their Role
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this dish, as they cook evenly and absorb the flavors well.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty flavor and helps create the crispy crust.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – These provide a crunchier texture compared to traditional breadcrumbs.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Used as a final topping for a melty, gooey finish.
- Mayonnaise & Butter Mixture – Helps the coating stick to the chicken and adds richness.
- Italian Seasoning & Garlic Powder – These elevate the flavor, giving the dish a well-balanced taste.
- Paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness and enhances the color of the crust.
How to Achieve the Perfect Parmesan-Crusted Chicken
- Flatten the Chicken – If your chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
- Double Coating for Extra Crispiness – If you want an even crunchier crust, dip the chicken in the mayo mixture, then in the dry coating, and repeat for a thicker layer.
- Bake, Then Broil – Baking ensures the chicken stays juicy, while broiling for the last few minutes gives the crust a golden, crispy texture.
- Let It Rest – Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps retain its juices, making every bite tender and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it versatile for any meal:
- Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes – A creamy, buttery side that balances the crispy texture of the chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts provide a fresh contrast to the rich, cheesy chicken.
- Caesar Salad – A crisp, tangy salad enhances the flavors while keeping the meal light.
- Buttery Pasta – A simple side of angel hair or fettuccine tossed in garlic butter complements the Parmesan crust perfectly.
Variations & Customizations
- Gluten-Free Option – Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Spicy Twist – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture for some heat.
- Low-Carb Version – Replace the panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly alternative.
- Air Fryer Method – For a crispier crust with less oil, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes for best results. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Conclusion
Parmesan-Crusted Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Whether served for a casual family dinner or as a meal to impress guests, this dish is always a hit. The crispy, cheesy crust combined with juicy, well-seasoned chicken makes every bite satisfying. With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, it’s a fantastic recipe to add to your collection.
This homemade version of Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Chicken will soon become a favorite in your kitchen! Enjoy it with your favorite sides and make it your own by experimenting with different seasonings and cheeses.