This Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Chicken is a tasty dish that’s easy to make at home! Juicy chicken coated in crispy parmesan crumbs, it’s baked to golden perfection.
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up a restaurant favorite! I like to serve it with pasta or a fresh salad for a yummy meal any night of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts give a tender texture. If you want a healthier option, try using chicken thighs which can be juicier.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan works best for flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can be used for seasoning, but it won’t give the same texture.
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor. If you don’t have them, plain breadcrumbs with a pinch of Italian herbs can serve as a substitute.
Butter and Olive Oil: The combination gives a rich flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use just olive oil or even cooking spray for a lower-fat version.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Evenly?
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is crucial. This step helps the chicken cook uniformly, preventing parts from drying out while waiting for thicker sections to finish cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Place chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper.
- Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the thickest parts until they’re about 1/2 inch thick.
- Be gentle! You want to flatten, not tear the chicken.
This simple technique really helps make your chicken tender and succulent! Plus, it speeds up cooking time.
Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
For Cooking:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Chicken will take about 25 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes to cook. Allow a few extra minutes for resting before serving. In total, you will need about 45 minutes from start to finish to enjoy this flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, take your chicken breasts and gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures they cook uniformly and stay juicy.
2. Set Up Your Coating Stations:
In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well! In a second bowl, beat the two large eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoned breadcrumbs.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Start by dredging each chicken breast in the flour mixture, making sure to shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, ensuring it’s well coated on all sides.
4. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the melted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
5. Bake the Chicken:
After browning, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures it’s perfectly cooked through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired for a fresh kick!
Enjoy your homemade Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Chicken! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Yes! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are preferred for this recipe, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time if necessary, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach the desired internal temperature.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour and Italian seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Look for gluten-free flours and breadcrumbs at your local grocery store to ensure a delicious result!
Can I Prepare This Chicken in Advance?
Absolutely! You can coat the chicken in the breading and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at a low temperature or microwave it briefly, ensuring not to overcook it as it can dry out.
