This Easy Parmesan Chicken is crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious! Coated in parmesan cheese and herbs, it gives you that restaurant-style flavor right at home.
It’s a dinner win! I love serving it with pasta or a fresh salad. Quick tip: don’t forget to add a sprinkle of extra cheese before serving—it’s like the cherry on top! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are ideal for an even, quick cook. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using chicken thighs, which are juicier!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano is a good substitute. Just remember, it’s saltier than Parmesan, so adjust your seasoning!
Breadcrumbs: I used Italian breadcrumbs for flavor, but panko breadcrumbs work great too! They’re crunchier, giving a delightful texture. You can also use crushed cornflakes for a unique twist.
Herbs and Spices: If you don’t have dried oregano or basil, Italian seasoning is an easy swap. For a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes to the mix!
How Do I Get the Chicken Crispy?
Achieving that perfect crisp is all about the preparation and cooking technique. Here’s how to make it happen:
- **Even Thickness:** Pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch for even cooking. This prevents dry spots!
- **Breading Process:** Don’t rush! Make sure to coat the chicken fully. Press firmly into the breadcrumb mix for a better hold.
- **Hot Pan:** Ensure your skillet is hot with both oil and butter before adding the chicken. Sizzling helps create that crispy outer layer.
- **Oven Time:** Baking allows the chicken to cook through without drying out. It ensures a tender inside and crispy outside.
Rest the chicken after baking for a few minutes. This helps retain the juices, resulting in succulent bites!
Easy Parmesan Chicken Inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs (or panko breadcrumbs)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 20-25 minutes for cooking and baking. In total, expect to spend around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be hot and ready when it’s time to bake the chicken.
2. Prepare Your Breading Station:
Set up three shallow bowls: In the first bowl, whisk the eggs well. In the second bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese with the Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Lastly, place the flour in the third bowl. This will help in the breading process!
3. Ready the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and lightly pound them to an even thickness—about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook evenly!
4. Dredging the Chicken:
First, dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off before coating it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press firmly so it sticks well!
5. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and sizzling. Place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Baking to Perfection:
Once the chicken is golden, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This will ensure the chicken is cooked through while keeping it juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After baking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for that fresh, zesty kick!
This recipe delivers a deliciously crispy and cheesy chicken dish, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your homemade version of Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative! They’re juicier and can add more flavor to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispiness.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and coat it in the breadcrumbs a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before frying and baking.
What Can I Serve with Parmesan Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables. For a classic touch, you might also serve it with garlic bread or a light lemon sauce on top!
