Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a hearty and tasty dish featuring a crispy, golden-browned chicken breast topped with a rich parmesan cheese crust and a flavorful blend of herbs and spices. It’s the kind of meal that’s both satisfying and comforting, with just the right amount of cheesy goodness to make it special.
I love making this dish at home because it’s simple but still feels like a treat. The parmesan crust adds a nice crunch, and the herb seasoning gives it a little extra zip that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. I usually squeeze a bit of lemon over the top to brighten the flavors and add a fresh touch.
One of my favorite ways to serve this parmesan chicken is alongside some roasted veggies or a crisp salad to balance out the richness. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner when you want something that’s quick to prepare but still feels like a restaurant meal. Plus, the leftovers reheat well, so it’s great for lunches too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook evenly and stay juicy. If you want a lighter option, boneless skinless turkey cutlets also work well.
Panko breadcrumbs: They give that perfect crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can substitute but the crunch may be softer.
Parmesan cheese: This adds a rich, nutty flavor to both the breading and sauce. For a twist, try Pecorino Romano, or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce creamy and smooth. If you want it lighter, try half-and-half or milk with a little cornstarch to thicken.
How Do You Get the Parmesan Crust Crispy Without Burning?
Getting the crust crispy means controlling heat and oil carefully.
- Heat the oil over medium heat, not too hot—if it’s smoking, it’s too hot and will burn the coating.
- Use enough oil to cover the pan bottom, so the chicken fries evenly.
- Cook the chicken 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. If the crust browns too fast, lower the heat to avoid burning while keeping the inside cooked.
- Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken before frying to keep the crust intact.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I recommend using a heavy-bottomed skillet to get even heat for frying and making the sauce.
- Baking dish or plate – for dredging the chicken in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, which keeps your workspace tidy.
- Meat mallet or rolling pin – helps to pound the chicken flat and even for quick cooking.
- Tongs or a slotted spoon – to carefully turn the chicken without breaking the coating.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient mixing, especially with sauces.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey cutlets or pork chops for a similar crispy, cheesy dish.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the sauce for extra veggies.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon or a handful of chopped basil for a fresh flavor boost.
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
For The Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. So, in total, expect about 30 minutes from start to finish — perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare The Chicken:
First, pound your chicken breasts until they are an even 1/2 inch thick to help them cook evenly. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Set Up The Breading Station:
In one shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs, and in a third bowl, place the flour.
3. Bread The Chicken:
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any extra. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, then coat well with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Press the crumbs firmly so they stick well.
4. Cook The Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a golden, crispy crust and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken and keep warm.
5. Make The Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, remove all but about 1 tablespoon of oil. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the pan. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently, stirring often, until it thickens slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes.
6. Serve And Enjoy:
Spoon the creamy parmesan sauce over your crispy chicken breasts. Garnish with extra parsley if you like. Serve alongside mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli or roasted potatoes to complete the meal. For an extra fresh touch, squeeze some lemon juice over the chicken before eating.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight before pounding and cooking. Frozen chicken will release extra moisture if not properly thawed, which can affect the breading crispiness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check labels to be sure.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can bread the chicken and keep it refrigerated for a few hours before cooking. For fully cooked leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat gently in a skillet or oven to keep the crust crisp.
What Should I Serve With Parmesan Chicken?
This chicken pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. A fresh salad or a side of rice also works well to balance the rich, creamy sauce.