This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken brings restaurant flavor right to your kitchen! Crispy chicken is topped with cheesy goodness, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Plus, it’s so easy to whip up! I like to serve it with a side of pasta or a fresh salad. Trust me, it’s a hit every time, and it won’t break the bank! 🍽️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. If you prefer, chicken thighs can also work well. They are juicier and can add extra flavor!
Breadcrumbs: I used Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor. If you don’t have them, regular breadcrumbs mixed with Italian herbs will do just fine. Panko breadcrumbs can offer an extra crunch!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice flavor kick. For a twist, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano, if you enjoy a sharper taste. Just keep an eye on the salt level!
Marinara Sauce: You can use store-bought marinara sauce, but homemade will make it even better! If you’re in a pinch, any tomato sauce will suffice, or even pesto for a unique twist!
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
Achieving that crispy coating is a key part of this dish! Here’s how to do it right:
- Flatten the chicken: Pound the chicken evenly so it cooks uniformly.
- Dredging method: Start with flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs. This triple-layer ensures a perfect crust.
- Don’t rush the frying: Heat your oil well before adding chicken to get a nice golden brown. Frying should be done in batches if needed.
- Drain excess oil: Let the fried chicken sit on a paper towel to absorb extra oil.
Enjoy your cooking, and I hope your Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken turns out amazing! 🍗✨
Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying dinner option for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will make sure it’s hot and ready when your chicken is done frying.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook evenly, ensuring a juicy inside and a crispy outside.
3. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow dish, combine the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This will be your tasty coating!
4. Set Up the Dredging Station:
In another bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In a third shallow dish, place the flour. You’re all set for dredging!
5. Dredge the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the egg, and then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press gently to help the crumbs stick!
6. Fry the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding!
7. Bake with Sauce and Cheese:
Transfer the fried chicken breasts to a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, then top them with shredded mozzarella cheese and a small pat of butter. This adds creaminess and flavor!
8. Bake Until Bubbling:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be a great substitute since they are juicier and have more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and all-purpose flour. Look for certified gluten-free options to ensure there’s no cross-contamination.
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and bread it up to a day in advance. Just store the coated chicken in the refrigerator covered, and fry it when you’re ready to cook. The flavor will still be fantastic!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will help keep the chicken moist!
