Hey y’all! If you’re craving a restaurant-quality dish that’s both comforting and delicious, you’ll love this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This recipe brings a savory, crunchy, and creamy delight that’s perfect for family dinners, date nights, or any gathering. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- This dish bursts with flavor thanks to the creamy Parmesan crust.
- It’s easy to make and takes just under an hour from start to finish.
- The recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy night in.
- Customizable to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Directions
Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Make the Parmesan Crust
In a bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and garlic powder. In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise and lemon juice.
Coat the Chicken
Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Press the Parmesan mixture into the mayonnaise on each piece.
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is crispy and golden.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, marinate your chicken in lemon juice and garlic for a few hours before cooking. [Learn more about marinades](https://www.allrecipes.com/article/marinades/).
- Using freshly grated Parmesan will give a better flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Ensure your skillet is oven-safe to avoid transferring the chicken to another dish.
Variations
- Spicy Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the crust for added freshness.
- Cheesy Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Mix mozzarella with Parmesan for an extra cheesy layer.
Required Equipment
- Oven-safe skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Suggested Pairings
Serve your Parmesan crusted chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad. A side of roasted vegetables also complements this dish beautifully.
Pro Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). [More about safe chicken temperatures](https://www.foodsafety.gov/food-safety-charts/safe-minimum-cooking-temperature).
- Pound thicker parts of the chicken breast evenly for uniform cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in the juices.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs are a great substitute but may require a longer cooking time.
- What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs? Regular breadcrumbs will work, but panko provides a better crunch.
- How do I know when the chicken is done? The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.