Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like replicating the delicious tastes of your favorite restaurant right at home! I remember the first time I had the Parmesan Chicken at Longhorn Steakhouse. I was with some friends celebrating a milestone, and that crispy, cheesy goodness made a lasting impression on me. I found myself thinking about that dish long after that night out, so I decided to take matters into my own hands and recreate it in my own kitchen. And let me tell you, this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a true winner! It’s crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and utterly satisfying.
What I love about this recipe is how simple and straightforward it is. Whether you’re having a casual dinner or hosting friends, this dish always impresses. Plus, it requires ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Grab your apron, and let’s dive in!
What’s in Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken?
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! I prefer using breasts for their tenderness and ability to soak in all the delicious flavors.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: This adds that signature rich, nutty flavor. Go for a high-quality Parm—it makes all the difference!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a fantastic crunch to the coating. They’re lighter and flakier than regular breadcrumbs, so trust me, you want these!
Mayonnaise: It might sound a little unconventional, but this is the secret to keeping the chicken moist and flavorful. Plus, it helps the coating to stick perfectly.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic packs a punch of flavor. I wouldn’t dare skip this!
Italian Seasoning: This is a delightful mix of flavors that really captures that Italian essence, making each bite taste deliciously seasoned.
Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance everything in this dish—don’t leave them out!
Fresh Parsley: Not just for garnish, but it brightens up the dish and adds a pop of freshness.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Because what’s better than more cheese? It melts beautifully and takes the dish to another level.
Olive Oil (optional): This adds an extra touch of richness to the chicken, making it even more delectable.
Cooking Spray: A little help to ensure nothing sticks to that baking dish!
Is Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Good for You?
Oh, let’s not kid ourselves—this dish is a treat! But it does come with some perks.
Chicken Breasts: A great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. They help you stay full and satisfied.
Parmesan Cheese: While it does contain calories, it’s packed with calcium and protein, which can contribute to a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They’re light and can be a better choice than heavier traditional breadcrumbs. Pair them with healthy fats like olive oil, and you’ve got a balanced meal.
That said, keep an eye on your portion sizes, and don’t forget to balance this dish with a side of veggies for a complete meal!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for roasting)
– Cooking spray (for the baking dish)
This recipe serves about 4, but let’s be real—if you’re anything like me, you might just end up wanting to have some for leftovers!
How to Make Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray. Getting that oven nice and toasty gets the magic started!
2. In a medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until it looks beautifully combined.
3. In another bowl, mix the mayonnaise with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This is your secret weapon!
4. Dip each chicken breast in the mayonnaise mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated, and then dredge it in the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to ensure that coating sticks on nicely.
5. Place the coated chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle a little olive oil over the top for extra crispiness!
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until those beautiful chicken pieces are cooked through and the top is golden brown. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked perfectly.
7. In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over each chicken breast, then return to the oven until that cheese melts beautifully.
8. Once done, take it out, and let it rest for a few moments—patience pays off! Lastly, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Tips for the Best Parmesan Chicken
– Serve this dish alongside a fresh garden salad or roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal.
– If you want a bit of a kick, add some red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture!
– Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A mix of Parmesan and cheddar could be divine!
– Storage tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days—if it lasts that long!
I can’t wait for you to try this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken! It’s one of those comforting recipes that brings joy to any dinner table. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking! 🧑🍳✨
