Finished Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken with spaghetti and garlic bread, ready to serve.

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken: A Crispy, Cheesy Masterpiece You Can Make at Home 🍗🧀🔥

1. Introduction to This Restaurant-Quality Dish

If you’ve ever dined at Longhorn Steakhouse, you know their Parmesan Chicken is a showstopper – perfectly crispy chicken blanketed in rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella. This copycat recipe captures all the magic of the original, allowing you to recreate that signature restaurant experience in your own kitchen. Whether you’re looking for an impressive date night meal or a comforting family dinner, this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe delivers on both flavor and presentation.

What makes this dish special is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The chicken stays juicy inside while developing an irresistible golden crust, and the combination of tangy marinara with melted cheese creates a symphony of flavors. For those who love restaurant-quality meals at home, this recipe is a must-try. If you’re looking for more chicken inspiration, check out this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe that offers some delicious variations.

2. Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that authentic Longhorn Steakhouse flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for this Parmesan Chicken recipe:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Look for evenly sized breasts for consistent cooking
1 cup all-purpose flour – The base for our crispy coating
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors
1 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground works best
1 teaspoon garlic powder – For that essential savory note
1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth to the flavor profile
1 teaspoon paprika – Provides subtle smokiness and color
2 large eggs – Helps the breading adhere
2 tablespoons water – Lightens the egg wash slightly
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs – Look for seasoned varieties
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated makes a difference
1/2 cup vegetable oil – For achieving that perfect golden fry
1 cup marinara sauce – Use a high-quality brand or homemade
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – The classic melty topping
Fresh parsley, chopped – For that final pop of color and freshness

For more meal inspiration beyond this Parmesan Chicken, visit MealsMom.com where you’ll find plenty of family-friendly recipe ideas.

3. Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Begin by placing each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This crucial step serves two purposes: it ensures even cooking (no dry edges with raw centers) and tenderizes the meat for that perfect restaurant-quality texture. If you don’t have a meat mallet, the bottom of a heavy skillet works just as well!

Chicken breasts being pounded flat for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken.

Step 2: Creating the Perfect Coating

Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika – these seasonings will permeate every bite. In the second dish, whisk the eggs with water until well combined. The third dish holds the magic mixture of Italian-style breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. The Parmesan adds that signature nutty, salty flavor that makes this dish special.

Now for the fun part: dredge each chicken breast first in the flour mixture (shaking off excess), then dip into the egg wash (letting excess drip off), and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure good adhesion. This triple-coating method is what creates that crave-worthy crispy exterior.

Chicken breasts coated in seasoned flour for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken.

Step 3: Achieving the Perfect Golden Fry

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop in a breadcrumb – it should sizzle immediately. Carefully add the coated chicken breasts, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (you may need to work in batches). Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the coating is beautifully golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.

As each piece finishes cooking, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This step ensures your Parmesan Chicken stays crispy rather than becoming greasy. The aroma at this point will have your whole family gathering in the kitchen!

Chicken breasts frying in a skillet for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken.

Step 4: The Finishing Touches

Preheat your oven broiler to high. Arrange the fried chicken breasts on a baking sheet and top each with a generous spoonful of marinara sauce (about 1/4 cup per breast) and a healthy sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1/4 cup each). Place under the broiler for just 2-3 minutes – watch closely as the cheese melts and becomes bubbly with golden spots. The high heat gives you that perfect restaurant-style melted cheese topping without overcooking the chicken.

Remove from oven and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while everything is hot and the cheese is at its gooey best!

Fried chicken breasts topped with marinara and mozzarella for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken.

4. Pro Tips for Restaurant-Quality Results

Cheese matters: Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than the pre-grated kind, which contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting and flavor.
Extra crispy option: For an even crunchier coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double layer of breading.
Healthier alternative: If you prefer baking over frying, arrange breaded chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray lightly with cooking oil for better browning.
Sauce selection: While marinara is classic, try experimenting with Alfredo sauce or a spicy arrabbiata for different flavor profiles.
Resting time: Let the breaded chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.

5. Delicious Variations to Try

Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or use a spicy marinara sauce for heat lovers.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Cheese Lover’s Dream: Mix shredded provolone with the mozzarella for a richer, more complex cheese flavor.
Chicken Parm Sliders: Use smaller chicken cutlets and serve on slider buns with extra sauce for dipping.
Eggplant Parmesan Style: For a vegetarian twist, substitute eggplant slices for the chicken using the same breading method.

6. Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken deserves equally impressive sides. Here are some perfect accompaniments:

Pasta Perfection: Buttered spaghetti or fettuccine Alfredo make classic pairings. Toss the pasta with some of the marinara sauce before serving.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or garlic green beans provide a fresh contrast.
Potato Options: Garlic mashed potatoes or crispy roasted potatoes complement the chicken beautifully.
Salad Pairings: A crisp Caesar salad or fresh caprese salad balances the richness of the dish.
Bread Necessities: Warm garlic bread or breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

7. Storage and Reheating Tips

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat:

Oven Method: Place on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain crispiness.
Air Fryer Option: Reheat at 375°F for 3-4 minutes for a quick and crispy result.
Avoid the Microwave: While quick, microwaving will make the coating soggy.
Freezing: You can freeze the breaded, uncooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator before cooking as directed.

8. Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate nutritional values per serving (1 chicken breast with toppings):

Calories: 450-500 (varies based on oil absorption)
Protein: 35-40g (excellent protein source)
Carbohydrates: 25-30g (mostly from the breading)
Fat: 22-25g (use less oil for a lighter version)
Fiber: 2-3g
Sugar: 3-4g (mostly from the marinara)
Sodium: 800-900mg (reduce salt if watching sodium intake)

9. Why This Recipe Wins Every Time

This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken copycat recipe truly captures the essence of the restaurant favorite while being accessible for home cooks. The combination of crispy, golden-brown chicken with rich marinara and melted mozzarella creates a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. What makes it special is:

The perfect balance of textures – crispy outside, juicy inside
The harmony of flavors – savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy
The beautiful presentation that looks restaurant-worthy
The versatility to adapt to different tastes and dietary needs

Whether you’re recreating a favorite restaurant memory or discovering this delicious dish for the first time, this Parmesan Chicken recipe is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. The techniques used here – proper pounding, the three-step breading process, and the final broiling – ensure professional results every time. Serve it for weeknight dinners, date nights, or even casual entertaining – it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Buon appetito! 🍽️✨

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