This easy Parmesan chicken is a tasty copycat of Longhorn’s famous dish. With crispy breading and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table!
I love serving this chicken with a side of veggies or pasta; it makes for a great meal. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using chicken thighs. They are juicy and have more flavor!
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add lots of flavor. If you’re gluten-free, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers or make your own breadcrumbs using gluten-free bread.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. However, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a slightly sharper taste, or even use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Marinara Sauce: While optional, marinara sauce adds that classic Italian touch. If you’re in a pinch, store-bought sauce is great! Or, make your own with canned tomatoes and herbs.
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Getting your chicken perfectly cooked is essential for this dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Flatten the chicken so it cooks evenly. Aim for about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Heat the oil until hot but not smoking. This helps achieve a golden, crispy crust.
- Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy!
With these tips, your Parmesan chicken will be deliciously crispy on the outside and tender on the inside!
Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Parmesan chicken takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. With a quick prep time and easy cooking steps, you’ll have dinner ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. You can do this by placing the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag. Use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to pound them gently. Once flattened, season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
Set up three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the tablespoon of water. In the third bowl, combine the Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Bread the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, coating it thoroughly. This creates that delicious crispy outer layer!
4. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. To check for doneness, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, you can spoon warmed marinara sauce over the chicken just before serving for an extra tasty touch. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or pasta.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will give you even juicier results. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Italian-Style Breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can easily use regular breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning, or make your own by crushing up plain crackers or even stale bread seasoned with garlic and herbs.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Many brands offer great alternatives that work just as well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or quickly in the microwave.
