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This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe lets you enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home with ease. Tender chicken breasts are breaded and pan-seared to a golden crisp before baking under a blanket of melty cheese and garlic. Every bite is satisfying with its combination of savory flavors crispy edges and creamy topping. It transforms basic kitchen staples into something truly special all in under an hour.
When I first cooked this dish on a hectic Saturday I was genuinely surprised by how close it tasted to a meal out with none of the fuss. It quickly became a favorite for both weeknights and celebrations.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: these provide juicy meat and are easy to slice for serving look for pieces of similar size for even cooking
- Bread crumbs: the key to a crispy crust Italian seasoned types bring extra flavor but plain works if you add more dried herbs
- Grated Parmesan cheese: brings that salty nutty sharpness try to grate fresh for better melt and taste
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: the cheese layer that becomes melty and delicious best when freshly shredded
- All-purpose flour: helps the breading stick to the meat lightly coat for a better crust
- Large eggs: the binder for the breading beat with a little milk for best adhesion
- Minced garlic: gives an aromatic pungent punch use fresh cloves and mince right before using
- Dried Italian seasoning: adds Mediterranean flavor with notes of oregano and basil choose a high-quality blend
- Salt: lifts and balances the other flavors
- Black pepper: brings gentle warmth
- Olive oil: ensures a crisp sear and adds a subtle fruity note choose extra virgin for great flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté The Chicken:
- Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Once hot place each breaded chicken breast in the pan. Cook for three to four minutes per side until the coating turns golden brown and crispy. This step sets the crust and keeps the inside juicy.
- Prepare The Coating:
- Arrange three shallow dishes. In one combine bread crumbs half of the Parmesan cheese Italian seasoning salt and black pepper. In another whisk eggs and milk thoroughly. Place flour in the third. Dredge each chicken breast in flour first then dip in egg and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture pressing to adhere fully.
- Preheat The Oven:
- Turn on your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. This keeps the chicken from sticking and finishes cooking evenly.
- Assemble And Bake:
- Move the pan-seared chicken to the baking dish. Mix the remaining Parmesan with mozzarella and minced garlic. Sprinkle this mixture over each chicken breast so the tops are covered. Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbling with spots of gold.
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Parmesan is my favorite here it adds depth and that golden finish on top. My family always comments on how it reminds them of classic Italian diners we used to visit.
Storage Tips
Let the chicken cool before storing in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days and reheats best in the oven to restore its crisp crust. If freezing wrap individual pieces tightly and thaw overnight before reheating in a hot oven.
Ingredient Substitutions
No Italian bread crumbs handy Use plain with some extra dried Italian seasoning for flavor. You can mix in provolone or Monterey Jack instead of mozzarella if you want a different cheesy melt. Chicken thighs work if you prefer dark meat but adjust the cook times for thicker cuts.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or toss some lightly steamed green beans on the plate for a classic presentation. This chicken also sits well next to a crisp Caesar or garden salad. Try it on a bed of roasted cauliflower for a tasty low-carb dinner.
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Cultural Context
Parmesan chicken takes its cues from classic Italian-American comfort food blending Old World ingredients with hearty American preparation. It traces its roots to chicken parmigiana created by Southern Italian immigrants who adapted recipes with available cheeses and ample chicken found in the United States.
Recipe FAQs
- → Which chicken cut should I use for best result?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, as they allow for even cooking and a tender, juicy texture when breaded and baked.
- → How can I achieve a crispy coating?
Dredge chicken in flour, dip in egg wash, coat with seasoned breadcrumbs and parmesan, then pan-sear in olive oil before baking for a crisp crust.
- → What cheese alternatives can I try?
Swap mozzarella with provolone or Monterey Jack for a unique melt, or add asiago for extra flavor depth alongside the parmesan.
- → What sides complement this main dish?
Creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad balance the rich, cheesy chicken beautifully.
- → Can I adjust the seasonings?
Enhance flavor by adding more Italian herbs, cracked black pepper, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.