LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

I’ve always had a soft spot for comfort food that delivers bold flavor without being overly complicated. The first time I tasted LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, I was hooked. The crispy crust, rich with Parmesan and herbs, wrapped around tender, juicy chicken, felt like something I could eat every week and never get tired of. So I set out to recreate that experience at home—and I promise, this recipe delivers on every count.

What I love most about this dish is its versatility. It works as a quick weeknight dinner or a dinner party showstopper. The ingredients are straightforward, and the process is stress-free, but the result is a beautifully golden crust that locks in moisture and packs in serious flavor. With a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top, it’s as eye-catching as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

This recipe checks all the boxes: crisp texture, cheesy goodness, and juicy chicken. It’s a great way to bring restaurant-quality flavor to your own kitchen without a deep fryer or complicated prep. Perfect for busy nights or casual weekends, this dish is both satisfying and surprisingly light. Plus, it pairs beautifully with just about any side—from mashed potatoes to roasted veggies.

What Makes the Crust So Crispy and Flavorful?

The secret is in the breading. Using a mix of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese gives the crust that signature crunch and nutty richness. Adding a few spices to the mix ensures every bite is seasoned to perfection. And a quick pan sear before baking guarantees a golden-brown finish that’s impossible to resist.

Options for Substitutions

• Chicken: You can swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat.
• Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work, but panko gives the best texture.
• Parmesan: Romano or Asiago cheese can be used for a slightly different flavor.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free panko and double-check the cheese for gluten content.
• Dairy-free: Try a plant-based Parmesan alternative and dairy-free mayo or yogurt if needed.

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Ingredients for this LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. You want them trimmed and pounded to even thickness for even cooking.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are extra crispy and help create the signature golden crust.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that defines the dish and binds the crust.
• Mayonnaise: It keeps the chicken moist and helps the crust adhere perfectly.
• Garlic Powder: For that rich, savory base flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevates the overall taste.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into balance.
• Olive Oil: For searing and adding a hint of richness.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish and a touch of freshness.

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.

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Step 2: Make the Parmesan Crust Mixture

In a shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well so the seasoning is evenly distributed.

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Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Brush a thin layer of mayonnaise over each chicken breast. This not only locks in moisture but also helps the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture stick well. Press each piece of chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.

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Step 4: Sear for Extra Crispiness

Heat a couple tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the breaded chicken in the skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. You’re not cooking it through yet, just creating a crispy crust.

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Step 5: Finish in the Oven

Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and a pop of herbaceous flavor. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

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How Long to Prepare the LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Prep Time: The preparation will take about 15 to 20 minutes. This includes pounding the chicken to an even thickness, mixing your breading, and coating the chicken pieces thoroughly. If you’re organized and multitask well, it may even go faster.

Cooking Time: You’ll need about 5 to 6 minutes for searing (2-3 minutes per side) and 15 to 18 minutes in the oven. All together, you’re looking at roughly 20 to 25 minutes of cooking, giving this recipe a total time commitment of about 35 to 45 minutes from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Parmesan Chicken

• Pound the chicken evenly to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry spots.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and taste—pre-shredded varieties may not melt as nicely.
• Don’t skip the searing step! It gives the chicken a beautiful, golden crust.
• Let the chicken rest after baking to keep the juices locked inside.
• If you want extra crunch, broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes at the end.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Mayo Layer: Without it, the breading won’t stick properly and the chicken could dry out.
• Overcrowding the Pan During Searing: This will steam the chicken instead of browning it. Work in batches if needed.
• Using Cold Chicken: Let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even doneness.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the internal temperature—165°F is the sweet spot.
• Undermixing the Breading: Make sure the seasoning is distributed evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.

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What to Serve With LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken?

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery, and full of flavor—they balance out the crispy chicken perfectly.

2. Roasted Green Beans

A healthy, crisp vegetable side that adds freshness and crunch.

3. Caesar Salad

The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons contrast beautifully with the chicken’s richness.

4. Mac and Cheese

For a comfort food overload, this creamy classic is an irresistible pairing.

5. Grilled Asparagus

A light and elegant side dish that keeps the meal balanced.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Once cooled, place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes to regain some crispiness, or use an air fryer if available.

Freezer: You can freeze cooked chicken breasts individually by wrapping them tightly in foil and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Avoid Microwaving: While convenient, it tends to make the breading soggy. Stick to oven or air fryer reheating for best results.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 1 chicken breast)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. You can also use chicken cutlets or thighs if you prefer.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread and sear the chicken, then refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Great for meal prep!

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream are good substitutes for keeping the chicken moist and helping the crust stick.

Can I air-fry this recipe instead?

Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. The crust gets wonderfully crisp.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F. The juices should run clear.

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Conclusion

LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken brings the comfort of a restaurant-style meal straight into your home kitchen. With its crispy, cheesy crust and juicy, flavorful center, it’s a dish that always satisfies. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing dinner guests, this easy-to-follow recipe guarantees a memorable meal. And with so many side options and storage possibilities, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite.

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