Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly oil a baking dish.
2. Set up three separate dishes for dredging: one with flour, one with beaten eggs and milk, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, then in the egg mixture, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Transfer the browned chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish.
6. In a small bowl, combine the remaining Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, and minced garlic. Top each chicken breast with the cheese mixture.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Thighs: For extra juiciness, substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist.
• Sautéed Spinach: Add a layer of sautéed spinach under the cheese for a fresh and flavorful addition.
• Italian Breadcrumbs: Use Italian-style breadcrumbs for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy coating, avoiding the microwave to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Why dredge in flour before egg?

Flour helps the egg mixture adhere better to the chicken, allowing the breadcrumb coating to stick more effectively.

Why pan-fry before baking?

Pan-frying gives the chicken a golden, crispy crust while sealing in moisture before finishing in the oven.

Can I use Italian breadcrumbs?

Yes, Italian breadcrumbs are a great substitute and will add extra flavor to the dish.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F, and there should be no pink inside.

What can I serve with this?

This chicken pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, a Caesar salad, or garlic bread.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble everything up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella will give a better texture and flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze individual portions. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I use chicken breasts that are not pounded?

For even cooking, it's best to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. However, you can skip this step if needed.

Can I add other seasonings to the breadcrumbs?

Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices, such as oregano or basil, to personalize the flavor of the breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken recipe brings the flavors of your favorite restaurant right into your home kitchen. With its crispy coating, juicy chicken, and cheesy topping, it’s an easy yet impressive dish to serve for dinner. Whether you're cooking for yourself or hosting a family meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy!