This Parmesan Chicken recipe is inspired by the famous Longhorn Steakhouse dish. Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a crispy Parmesan crust, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, and baked to golden perfection. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Crispy & Cheesy: A crunchy Parmesan coating topped with gooey melted mozzarella.
- Flavorful Seasoning: Garlic, onion powder, and paprika add depth to the dish.
- Versatile: Serve it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🍗
- ½ cup all-purpose flour 🌾
- 1 cup bread crumbs (plain or Italian-style ) 🍞
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder 🧄
- 1 teaspoon onion powder 🧅
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor ) 🔥
- Salt and pepper , to taste 🧂
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing ) 🫒
- Fresh parsley , chopped (for garnish ) 🌿
For the Topping (Optional but Recommended):
- ¼ cup ranch dressing or creamy garlic dressing 🥄
- 2 tablespoons melted butter 🧈
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven 🔥
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken 🍗
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet (or a heavy pan) to pound them evenly to about ½-inch thickness .
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper .
Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station 🥄
- In three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Place the flour .
- Bowl 2: Combine the bread crumbs , grated Parmesan cheese , garlic powder , onion powder , paprika , salt , and pepper .
- Bowl 3: Crack an egg (not listed in ingredients but recommended for binding). Whisk it lightly.
Step 4: Bread the Chicken 🍞
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour , shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the egg (if using), ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Press the chicken into the bread crumb and Parmesan mixture , making sure it’s evenly coated on both sides.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken 🍳
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side , or until golden brown.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake 🧀
- Remove the skillet from heat and top each chicken breast with shredded mozzarella cheese .
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes , or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C ).
Step 7: Optional Topping 🥄
- While the chicken bakes, mix together the ranch dressing (or creamy garlic dressing) and melted butter in a small bowl. Brush this mixture over the chicken after baking for added richness and flavor.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve 🍴
- Sprinkle the chicken with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad.
Tips for Success:
- Double Coating: For an extra-crispy crust, dip the chicken back into the egg and Parmesan mixture a second time before searing.
- Italian-Style Bread Crumbs: Use seasoned Italian-style bread crumbs for additional flavor without extra effort.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 4):
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: ~40g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~20g
Indulge in this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken for a dish that’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, golden Parmesan crust, and melty mozzarella creates a restaurant-worthy experience right at home. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Top it with a drizzle of ranch or garlic butter, garnish with parsley, and enjoy every bite!