Craving a restaurant-quality dinner without leaving your kitchen? This Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe lets you bring that savory, crispy flavor home. With a golden Parmesan crust and juicy chicken inside, it’s the kind of dinner that makes any night feel special. In this article, you’ll learn how to recreate the iconic dish, from ingredients and prep to storage and sides. We’ll even cover common mistakes, give expert tips for crispiness, and offer delicious pairing ideas. Whether it’s a casual dinner or you’re entertaining guests, this chicken recipe will steal the show.
“If you’re wondering about the origins of this dish, Longhorn Steakhouse introduced it in the 1990s as a flavorful, bold alternative to standard grilled chicken.”
The Story Behind Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
My Family’s Favorite: Inspired by a Steakhouse Classic
Hi, I’m Lucy Tadic. I’m a mom of three from just outside Minneapolis, and let me tell you, getting dinner on the table isn’t always glamorous. But one night, years ago, my husband and I finally scored a sitter and treated ourselves to Longhorn Steakhouse. I ordered their Parmesan Crusted Chicken, and I still remember the crunch of that first bite. The cheese, the herbs, the juicy chicken, it was everything. I made a note to recreate it.
And I did. After some crispy disasters and soggy trials, I cracked the code on the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe. Now it’s a dinner staple in our home. My kids call it “the good chicken,” and honestly, that cheesy crust makes it feel like a win every time.
This isn’t just a quick chicken recipe; it’s my go-to when I want dinner to feel cozy but still a little bit special. And trust me, it’s way easier than it looks. If you’ve got picky eaters or just need a break from the usual, this parmesan chicken recipe will change your routine.
Why This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Stands Out
There’s a reason this longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken recipe has become a restaurant favorite and now a household hit. It’s all about that crispy, golden topping. Fresh parmesan cheese (don’t skimp and use the pre-grated stuff!), panko breadcrumbs, and herbs create a crust that’s flavorful and crunchy. Baked to perfection, the chicken stays moist and tender inside.
This parmesan chicken recipe doesn’t need a deep fryer or fancy gadgets. With a few pantry staples and a hot oven, you’ll have a baked chicken recipe that delivers in flavor and presentation.
Want to expand your chicken recipe collection? Try this Chicken and Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo for creamy comfort, or whip up Homemade Chicken Gyoza when you’re feeling adventurous.
If you’re wondering about the origins of this dish, Longhorn Steakhouse introduced it in the 1990s as a flavorful, bold alternative to standard grilled chicken. The parmesan-crusted version quickly became one of their top menu items thanks to its perfect mix of texture and seasoning.
So, whether you’re aiming to impress dinner guests or just treat yourself midweek, this Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe hits the mark every time. Ready to make it part of your dinner routine?
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
How to Prep for the Perfect Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
What You’ll Need: Kitchen Tools for Success
Before you dive into making the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe, make sure your kitchen is stocked with the essentials. While this is a relatively easy chicken recipe, using the right tools will make the process smoother and your crust crispier.
Start with a reliable set of mixing bowls. You’ll need separate ones for the Parmesan blend and for prepping the chicken. A sharp chef’s knife is also important if you’re working with large chicken breasts. I prefer slicing them in half to cook more evenly.
Use tongs for dipping the chicken and placing it on the baking sheet. This keeps your hands clean and prevents the breading from peeling off. If you want extra control, a slotted spatula helps lift the chicken without disturbing that gorgeous crust.
Optional tools like a meat mallet can help you pound the chicken to an even thickness, ensuring it cooks uniformly. A digital thermometer is helpful too. Chicken is done when it hits 165°F inside. To get that Longhorn-style golden finish, a wire rack placed over your sheet pan allows hot air to circulate evenly.
Want to take things up a notch? An air fryer is a great way to get that crunch without deep frying. It’s also perfect for reheating leftovers. I’ve even used mine to reheat Easy Homemade Chicken Nuggets without losing crispiness.
The Right Ingredients Make All the Difference
To nail the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe, you need fresh, flavorful ingredients. No shortcuts here. The crust is the star, and that means real Parmesan, not the shaker bottle stuff. Buy a wedge of Parmigiano-Reggiano and grate it fresh. It’s more flavorful and melts beautifully.
Mix it with panko breadcrumbs for that signature airy crunch. Avoid regular breadcrumbs; they won’t give the same texture. Add dried oregano, basil, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and a pinch of paprika. These herbs and spices give depth without overpowering the Parmesan flavor.
When choosing chicken, boneless, skinless breasts or thighs both work. I love chicken breasts for this recipe because they hold the crust better and slice beautifully for serving.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Ingredient | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Fresh Parmesan Cheese | Delivers bold, nutty flavor and crispy crust |
| Panko Breadcrumbs | Creates a light, crispy texture |
| Herbs & Spices | Oregano, garlic powder, basil add flavor depth |
| Chicken Breasts | Juicy and lean, perfect for holding the crust |
For more cozy chicken dinners, check out this hearty Chicken Tenders and Golden Fries, or plan with a comforting Chicken and Yellow Rice Recipe that your whole family will love.
Want more on ingredient selection? Serious Eats shares great insights on breading techniques and cheese ratios that help perfect that signature texture.
By setting up your kitchen and using top-quality ingredients, you’ll be ready to make the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe, not just good but unforgettable. mesan chicken recipe. Keep in mind that the secret to success is using the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. This will help you get that perfect Parmesan crust and easy chicken recipe your family will adore.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Nail the Parmesan Crust
Once your ingredients and tools are ready, it’s time to bring this Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe to life. This isn’t just another baked chicken recipe; it turns heads at the dinner table. Follow these steps carefully to ensure the crust is golden, crispy, and packed with flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or set a wire rack on top to keep the crust crispy.
- Grate 1 cup of fresh Parmesan cheese using a microplane for a light texture.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the cheese with ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs, 2 teaspoons oregano, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Pat dry 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.
- Optional: Pound the chicken with a meat mallet until it’s an even thickness, about ½ inch, for quicker, more even cooking.
- Coat the chicken in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to help it adhere.
- Place chicken onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
This parmesan chicken recipe gives you restaurant-level flavor without complicated steps. The cheese melts into the breadcrumb coating, forming a crisp, cheesy shell that seals in the juicy chicken. Want to double the batch? It reheats well, especially in an air fryer.
For extra serving inspiration, pair this with Marry Me Chicken Soup for a cozy two-course meal or serve over pasta like in this Chicken and Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo for a hearty combo.
Tips for the Crispiest Parmesan Chicken Coating
Getting that signature crunch is all in the technique. Here are tried-and-true tips I’ve learned from testing this longhorn parmesan crusted chicken recipe dozens of times:
- Dry chicken well: Any extra moisture will steam the crust. Use paper towels to blot the chicken completely.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from crisping. Always grate your own.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: The oven needs room for hot air to circulate. Crowding causes soggy crusts.
- Use a wire rack: Placing the chicken on a rack allows heat to flow underneath, making the underside crisp, not soggy.
- Crank up the heat in the last 5 minutes: Broil on low for 1–2 minutes to get that beautiful golden finish, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Avoid microwaving leftovers; reheat them in the oven or air fryer to preserve that crispy texture.
Want even more crispy dinner ideas? Try the easy homemade chicken nuggets, perfect for weeknights, or browse this Epic Crispy Chicken Guide from The Kitchn.
Getting that perfect Parmesan crust isn’t complicated. A few tweaks make all the difference between soggy and sensational. Workplace, you can make a delicious, crispy, quick, or easy chicken recipe with a tasty Parmesan crust.
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Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe – 7 Secrets for Crispy Success
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A restaurant-style Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe you can make at home—crispy crust, juicy meat, and rich flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet.
2. Grate parmesan and mix with panko, herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Pat chicken dry and pound to even thickness.
4. Coat chicken thoroughly in the parmesan breadcrumb mixture.
5. Place on baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil or butter.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F.
7. Broil for 1–2 minutes at end for extra golden crust.
8. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use fresh parmesan for best flavor and texture.
Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the crust crispy.
Serve with mashed potatoes, green veggies, or garlic rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Complete Your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe Like a Pro
Side Dishes That Elevate the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
The beauty of the longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re hosting guests or planning an easy weeknight dinner, pairing it with the right side dish turns it into a complete meal. The crust is rich and savory, so aim for sides that balance that out with brightness or creaminess.
For vegetables, roasted asparagus or green beans with a squeeze of lemon are perfect. They add color and keep the plate fresh. A Crisp Garden Salad with balsamic vinaigrette works great, too.
As for starches, here are a few easy pairings that match the richness of the Parmesan crust:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Parmesan-garlic rice
- Buttery dinner rolls
- Oven-roasted red potatoes with herbs
Want to keep it all homemade? Serve the chicken alongside Chicken and Yellow Rice or even a lightened-up soup like Marry Me Chicken Soup.
For a fun restaurant-style touch, drizzle with lemon-herb aioli, marinara, or a garlic cream sauce. These pair beautifully with the crispy texture and deepen the flavors of your Parmesan chicken recipe.
Storage, Reheating & Mistakes to Avoid
Made too much? Good! This longhorn Parmesan-crusted chicken recipe stores and reheats beautifully.
Storing Leftovers:
Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Want to prep ahead? You can freeze the coated (but uncooked) chicken breasts on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for easy baking later.
Reheating for Maximum Crisp:
To keep the Parmesan crust crispy, reheat in the oven at 400°F for 10–12 minutes. You can also use an air fryer for 5–6 minutes at 375°F. Avoid the microwave; it makes the crust soggy.
Common Mistakes to Watch Out For:
- Skipping the fresh parmesan: Pre-grated cheese lacks the texture and flavor needed for this recipe.
- Not drying the chicken: Moisture keeps the crust from sticking properly.
- Overcrowding the pan: This causes steaming instead of crisping.
- Incorrect temperature: Always preheat the oven. A low temperature equals a limp crust.
- Uneven coating: Press the cheese mix firmly so it sticks. If it falls off in the oven, you’ll lose that signature crunch.
Following these tips ensures your longhorn parmesan crusted chicken recipe turns out perfectly every single time.
Still hungry for more chicken dinner ideas? You’ll love our Chicken Salad Chick Recipe or the comforting Easy Chicken Quesadilla Recipe for a weeknight twist.
Looking for pro-level advice on making crispy chicken? This guide from Bon Appétit reveals chef-tested strategies for breading and baking that bring results you can taste.
FAQs About Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
What is the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe?
The Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a popular dish from Longhorn Steakhouse, known for its crispy Parmesan crust and tender chicken. The recipe combines grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and spices to deliver a restaurant-level chicken dinner at home. You can now make it easily with ingredients from your pantry.
What makes this chicken recipe special?
This longhorn Parmesan-crusted chicken recipe stands out due to its balance of texture and flavor. Fresh parmesan cheese creates a savory, crispy crust, while herbs and panko keep it light and flavorful. It’s also incredibly versatile, great for weeknights, holidays, or guests.
What are the key ingredients needed for this recipe?
The essentials include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The quality of Parmesan makes a big difference, so always choose freshly grated cheese for the best results.
What kitchen tools and equipment are required?
You’ll need basic tools like mixing bowls, a baking sheet, and tongs. For best results, use a wire rack for crispiness, a digital thermometer to check doneness, and, optionally, a meat mallet for even cooking. An air fryer also works wonderfully for reheating.
How do I prepare the perfect Parmesan crust?
For the perfect Parmesan crust, grate your cheese finely and mix it evenly with panko and spices. Pat your chicken dry, coat it thoroughly, and bake it at a high temperature to ensure it crisps up without drying out the inside.
What are some tips for getting the chicken coating extra crispy?
Dry the chicken well, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, and use a wire rack for air circulation. Preheating the oven and broiling briefly at the end adds extra crunch to the longhorn parmesan crusted chicken recipe.
What are some tasty side dish options to serve with this chicken?
Some great options include roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, lemony green beans, or garlic rice. A tangy dipping sauce like lemon-herb aioli or creamy Alfredo enhances the dish. Or pair it with Chicken and Yellow Rice for a family-friendly feast.
How should I store and reheat leftover Parmesan-crusted chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 400°F oven or air fryer to keep the crust crisp. Avoid the microwave, which can make the coating soggy.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making this dish?
Common mistakes include using pre-shredded cheese, not drying the chicken properly, and underbaking. Be sure to coat evenly, maintain a high baking temperature, and allow the chicken to rest before slicing.
Conclusion: Bring the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe to Your Table
Bringing the longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken recipe into your home kitchen is easier than you think. With fresh ingredients, a hot oven, and a little patience, you can create a meal that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant menu. Whether you’re serving it with garlic mashed potatoes or keeping it light with a crisp salad, this baked chicken recipe delivers flavor, texture, and comfort in every bite.
The best part? It’s freezer-friendly, family-approved, and impressively simple to make again and again.
Don’t forget to check out more cozy favorites like our Easy Chicken Quesadilla Recipe or lighten things up midweek with this flavorful Chicken Salad Chick Recipe. When you’re cooking with love and a little cheese, magic happens.
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