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This restaurant-quality parmesan chicken has transformed my weeknight dinner game with its crispy exterior and irresistibly gooey cheese topping. Making this Longhorn Steakhouse copycat at home not only saves money but lets me control the ingredients while still delivering that signature flavor my family craves.
I first made this parmesan chicken when trying to recreate our favorite steakhouse meal during lockdown. What started as a restaurant substitute has become our go-to celebration dish, requested by my children for every birthday dinner.
Ingredients
- Fresh boneless skinless chicken breasts: choose uniform sizes for even cooking
- All-purpose flour: creates the first layer that helps other ingredients adhere
- Large eggs and milk: provide the binding moisture for perfect breading adhesion
- Italian style bread crumbs: deliver authentic flavor and perfect crunch
- Italian seasoning: brings the signature herb profile that makes this dish special
- Parmesan cheese: select block cheese and grate it yourself for best melting properties
- Shredded mozzarella: creates that stretchy cheese pull we all love
- Fresh garlic cloves minced: adds aromatic depth to the cheese topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Your Station:
- Set up three wide shallow bowls in sequence first with flour seasoned with salt and pepper second with beaten eggs and milk whisked together third with bread crumbs and Italian seasoning combined. This assembly line makes the breading process smooth and mess-free.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Working with one chicken breast at a time completely coat in flour shaking off excess then dip fully in egg mixture letting extra drip off finally press into breadcrumb mixture ensuring even coverage on all sides. The three-step breading creates multiple layers of texture and flavor.
- Initial Sear:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering then carefully add breaded chicken cooking 3-4 minutes per side until deep golden brown. This crucial step creates the crispy exterior that stands up to the cheese topping.
- Cheese Application:
- Transfer seared chicken to a baking dish with space between pieces then mix the parmesan mozzarella and minced garlic in a bowl before generously sprinkling over chicken. Press cheese mixture lightly to adhere to the chicken surface.
- Final Bake:
- Slide the baking dish into preheated oven and bake for exactly 20-25 minutes until cheese turns beautifully golden with slight browning at edges and chicken reaches safe internal temperature. Allow to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
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The minced garlic in the cheese mixture is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered this addition when I accidentally dropped fresh garlic into my cheese bowl while cooking one evening. That happy accident created such an aromatic flavor boost that it has become essential to my version of this Longhorn classic.
Perfect Pairings
This parmesan chicken shines brightest when served alongside complementary sides. A simple angel hair pasta tossed with butter and herbs creates the perfect base to catch any cheese that might escape the chicken. For a lighter option try serving with roasted asparagus or a bright arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheese.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover parmesan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. While microwaving is quick it will soften the crispy exterior. Instead reheat in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through. This preserves the textural contrast between the crunchy coating and tender chicken. If making ahead consider slightly undercooking the initial sear to prevent dryness when reheating.
Customization Options
This recipe welcomes creative adaptations to suit your preferences. For a spicier version add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or sprinkle them into the cheese topping. If you prefer a thinner cutlet butterfly the chicken breasts or pound them to an even thickness before breading which reduces cooking time and ensures more even cooking. For extra indulgence add a small spoonful of marinara sauce under the cheese before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I make the chicken extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, use panko bread crumbs and ensure they are toasted to a golden brown before baking.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced and complete meal.
- → Can I add a spicy twist?
Yes, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a slightly spicy kick.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- → What cheese works best for the topping?
A combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheese works best for a gooey and flavorful topping.