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This restaurant-quality Parmesan chicken recipe recreates the beloved Longhorn Steakhouse classic right in your home kitchen. The crispy, cheesy coating keeps the chicken juicy while delivering that perfect combination of Italian herbs and rich cheese flavor that makes this dish so popular.
My husband declared this even better than the restaurant version the first time I made it. The combination of that golden crust with the melty cheese topping creates a dish that's become our go-to for impressing dinner guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose even-sized breasts for consistent cooking or butterfly thicker pieces
- Breadcrumbs: The foundation of our crispy coating use Panko for extra crunch
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated provides the best flavor and texture in both the coating and topping
- Mozzarella cheese: Adds that melty cheese pull that makes the dish irresistible
- All-purpose flour: Helps the egg mixture adhere properly to the chicken
- Eggs: The binding agent that creates the perfect base for breading
- Milk: Adds richness to the egg mixture for better adhesion
- Garlic: Aromatic that elevates the cheese topping use fresh for best results
- Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs that gives this dish its signature flavor
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance all other flavors in the dish
- Olive oil: For that perfect golden sear before baking medium to high quality works best
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Breading Station:
- Set up three shallow dishes first with flour second with beaten eggs and milk whisked together and third with breadcrumbs half the Parmesan cheese Italian seasoning salt and pepper thoroughly combined. This organized setup makes the breading process smooth and mess-free.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Take each chicken breast and dredge it first in flour shaking off any excess then dip completely in the egg mixture allowing excess to drip off finally press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture ensuring an even coating on all sides. The pressing motion helps the coating adhere better for a crispier result.
- Pan Sear for Color:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking then add the breaded chicken breasts cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. This step is crucial for texture as it sets the coating and creates that restaurant-quality appearance.
- Prepare the Cheese Topping:
- In a small bowl combine the remaining Parmesan cheese shredded mozzarella and minced garlic mixing well to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the cheese blend. This mixture will create that signature cheesy crust that makes this dish so special.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish then generously top each piece with the cheese mixture spread it evenly to the edges for complete coverage then bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F internally and the cheese topping becomes golden and bubbly.
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The quality of your Parmesan makes a noticeable difference in this recipe. I splurged on a block of aged Parmigiano-Reggiano for my anniversary dinner version, and my guests could immediately tell the difference. The nutty depth from good cheese transforms this from a good meal to an unforgettable one.
Make-Ahead Options
You can bread the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. This makes it perfect for entertaining since you can do the messy work ahead of time. Just bring the chicken to room temperature for about 20 minutes before searing and baking for the best results.
Perfect Pairings
This Parmesan chicken works beautifully with simple sides that balance its richness. A lightly dressed arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the cheese perfectly. For a complete Longhorn Steakhouse experience pair it with garlic mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli. A glass of medium-bodied Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the flavors wonderfully.
Customize Your Chicken
While the classic recipe is perfect as is there are several delicious variations to try. For a Parmesan crusted chicken Marsala spoon some Marsala sauce underneath the chicken before adding the cheese. For a Caprese version add sliced tomatoes under the cheese mixture and garnish with fresh basil after baking. You can also pound the chicken thinner for faster cooking and more surface area for that delicious cheese topping.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your breading falls off during cooking the oil likely wasnt hot enough before adding the chicken. Make sure you see a slight shimmer before adding breaded pieces. For extra insurance refrigerate the breaded chicken for 30 minutes before searing to help the coating adhere better. If the cheese browns too quickly before the chicken is fully cooked cover loosely with foil for the remaining baking time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of breadcrumbs should I use?
Italian breadcrumbs work best for added flavor, but plain breadcrumbs can also be seasoned to taste.
- → Can I substitute any ingredients?
You can substitute panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture or use cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella for a different flavor.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear.
- → Can I add spices for extra heat?
Yes, adding red pepper flakes or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture can give the chicken a spicier kick.
- → What side dishes go well with this chicken?
Pair it with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a Caesar salad for a complete meal.