This crispy Parmesan chicken is a treat for your taste buds! It’s juicy on the inside and coated with a yummy crunchy layer that makes every bite special.
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy flavor? I love serving it with some simple veggies or a salad. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this dish, but you could use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a crunchy texture, but if you have regular breadcrumbs, they can substitute in a pinch. Just keep in mind they may not be as crispy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal, but pre-grated cheese will work fine too. For a twist, try using Romano or an Italian blend if you’re feeling adventurous.
Oils: Olive oil adds flavor, but vegetable oil or canola oil are also great choices for frying due to their high smoke point.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is the key to cooking it evenly. This way, the thicker parts won’t take longer to cook than the thinner ones. Here’s how:
- Place the chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound gently until even.
- Aim for about 1/2 inch thickness for best results.
Also, using a meat thermometer will ensure that the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees it’s fully cooked but still juicy and tender!
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need roughly 10 minutes for prep and about 15-20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First things first, take your chicken breasts and pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. You can put them between two pieces of plastic wrap for easy handling.
2. Set Up the Dredging Stations:
In three separate shallow bowls, prepare your flour, egg wash, and breadcrumb mixture. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and 2 tablespoons of water until well combined. In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dredge the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and start the dredging process. First, coat it in the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to make sure it sticks well.
4. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook each piece for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Drain and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate to get rid of any excess oil. If you want, garnish your chicken with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra zesty touch!
Enjoy your homemade Longhorn Steakhouse-style Parmesan Chicken, crispy and flavorful just like at the restaurant!
FAQ About Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and will work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. There are great gluten-free breadcrumbs available that can replicate the crunchy texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
What Can I Serve This Chicken With?
This Parmesan chicken is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side of pasta, rice, or a fresh garden salad. Roasted vegetables also pair wonderfully for a complete meal!
