Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delightful twist on classic comfort food, bringing together layers of flavor and texture in every bite. The journey starts with tender, boneless, skinless chicken breasts that get a luxurious coating of grated Parmesan cheese and Italian-style breadcrumbs, infused with garlic powder, onion powder, and a medley of dried Italian herbs. The result is a mouthwatering, golden-brown crust that crackles ever so slightly as you slice into it, revealing its juicy interior. This intermediate-level recipe is perfect for home cooks looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. With just 15 minutes of hands-on preparation, 30 minutes of baking time, and a quick 5-minute rest before serving, you’ll be digging into a plateful of crispy chicken in under an hour. Clocking in at around 480 calories per serving, this dish pairs beautifully with both lunch and dinner menus, striking the perfect balance between indulgence and ease.
Get ready for a flavor explosion with crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken that's tender, juicy, and bursting with Italian herbs in every bite! Each piece blends the nutty, savory notes of Parmesan with fragrant basil and oregano, while garlic and onion powder add an irresistible depth. Baking the chicken ensures a lighter, less oily finish than deep frying, and the olive oil sear locks in moisture before the oven works its magic. This recipe decked out with fresh parsley garnish brings that restaurant-worthy flair straight to your table. Whether you’re serving this up for a weeknight family meal or a cozy weekend lunch, the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken promises delight at every forkful—no reservations required!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN LONGHORN PARMESAN CRUSTED CHICKEN
Before diving into the cooking steps, let’s take a closer look at the star components that make this dish shine. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from building texture to delivering those bold, herbaceous flavors. Together, they create a harmonious crust that perfectly complements the tender chicken beneath.
- Chicken breasts
These boneless, skinless cuts form the hearty base of the dish. Their mild flavor and juicy texture absorb the savory coating beautifully, ensuring each bite is tender and satisfying.
- Parmesan cheese
Grated Parmesan brings a rich, nutty character and helps the crust achieve that irresistible golden hue. Its natural saltiness enhances the overall seasoning.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs
These breadcrumbs add a crisp crunch and are often pre-blended with herbs and spices. They work alongside the Parmesan to create a sturdy, flavorful coating.
- Garlic powder
Provides concentrated garlic taste without the moisture of fresh cloves, ensuring an even distribution of flavor in the crust.
- Onion powder
Offers a sweet, savory undertone that complements the garlic powder and rounds out the seasoning blend.
- Dried Italian herbs
A blend of basil, oregano, and other classic herbs adds an authentic Mediterranean aroma and flavor, elevating the dish to true Italian chicken territory.
- Salt
Essential for amplifying all the other flavors, ensuring each element of the crust and the chicken itself is properly seasoned.
- Black pepper
Introduces a gentle heat and pungency that balances the richness of the cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Eggs
Serve as the binding agent, helping the flour and breadcrumb layers adhere firmly to the chicken for an even crust.
- All-purpose flour
Creates the first layer of coating, allowing the egg wash to stick and form a strong bond for the breadcrumb mixture.
- Olive oil
Used for searing the chicken breasts, it adds a fruity richness and helps achieve a crisp exterior before baking.
- Fresh parsley
A bright, herbaceous garnish that cuts through the richness of the crust and adds a pop of color on the plate.
HOW TO MAKE LONGHORN PARMESAN CRUSTED CHICKEN
Let’s walk through the process of transforming simple ingredients into a show-stopping Parmesan-crusted masterpiece. Follow each step carefully to ensure your chicken emerges perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly to guarantee even distribution of all seasonings.
3. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs until the yolks and whites are fully blended and smooth. In a separate dish, spread out the all-purpose flour in an even layer.
4. Take each chicken breast and coat it thoroughly in the flour, ensuring every surface is lightly dusted. Gently shake off any excess flour to avoid clumps in the final crust.
5. Dip the floured chicken breast into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra egg to drip off so the coating stays even.
6. Press the chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s fully covered on both sides. Firm pressure helps the coating adhere for maximum crunch.
7. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts in batches, cooking for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they turn a rich golden brown. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning while achieving an even sear.
8. Once browned, transfer the chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (75°C).
10. Remove the baking dish and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This pause allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
11. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve alongside your choice of sides for a complete, satisfying meal.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR LONGHORN PARMESAN CRUSTED CHICKEN
Once your chicken emerges from the oven, the real fun begins—deciding how to present and pair this crispy, herb-crusted beauty. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a cozy lunch date, these serving ideas will bring out the best in each bite and ensure a memorable meal.
- Over Buttered Pasta
Create a simple bed of linguine or fettuccine tossed in melted butter, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Place the chicken on top so that each serving gets a taste of the savory sauce mingling with the crust.
- Garden-Fresh Salad
Serve slices of the crusted chicken alongside a crisp green salad loaded with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded carrots. Drizzle with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
- Creamy Garlic Alfredo Drizzle
Whip up a quick garlic Alfredo sauce by combining heavy cream, Parmesan, garlic, and a touch of butter. Spoon the velvety sauce over the chicken just before serving for an indulgent twist.
- Roasted Vegetable Medley
Pair your chicken with roasted asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini tossed in olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper. The lightly charred veggies offer freshness and color to the plate.
HOW TO STORE LONGHORN PARMESAN CRUSTED CHICKEN
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or hoping to enjoy delicious leftovers, proper storage is key to maintaining that signature crispness and flavor. Follow these guidelines to keep your chicken tasting just-baked, even after a few days.
Storing your Parmesan-crusted chicken in an airtight environment preserves moisture and prevents the crust from becoming soggy. It’s best to cool the chicken completely at room temperature before transferring it to containers. Labeling your storage containers with dates ensures you use the leftovers within safe food guidelines. When reheating, take care to refresh the crust’s crunch without overcooking the meat.
- Refrigerator Method
Place cooled chicken breasts in a single layer inside a sealed airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, making sure the lid is tightly closed to prevent moisture loss and external odors.
- Freezer Method
Individually wrap each chicken breast in plastic wrap, then insert into a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture.
- Oven Reheat
Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Warm for 10–12 minutes, or until heated through, to restore crispness without drying out the meat.
- Microwave Shortcut
For a quick reheat, place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium heat in 30-second intervals, checking to avoid overcooking.
CONCLUSION
The Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe brings a delightful spin to everyday poultry with its crunchy, herb-infused coating and ever-juicy interior. From the sturdy foundation of all-purpose flour and beaten eggs to that unmistakable golden crust of Parmesan cheese and Italian-style breadcrumbs, each step works in harmony to deliver maximum flavor. With straightforward prep—just 15 minutes of active time—and a quick bake in a 375°F oven, this dish shines as an intermediate-level project that yields restaurant-worthy results. Whether you lean into the classic pairing of pasta and Alfredo, serve it alongside a vibrant garden salad, or enjoy it peek-a-boo style with roasted veggies, you’re in for a crowd-pleasing meal. Don’t forget that you can print this article and save it for those busy weeknights or spur-of-the-moment gatherings, and check out the FAQ section below for answers to common questions without leaving your kitchen.
We’d love to hear how your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken turns out! Share your comments, questions, or any tips you’ve discovered along the way. Whether you’re tweaking the seasoning blend, experimenting with fresh breadcrumbs, or trying out one of our serving suggestions, your feedback helps us all become better home cooks. If you hit a snag or simply want to brag about the perfect crust you achieved, drop a note below—your culinary adventure is just getting started. Happy cooking!
Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Description
A mouthwatering dish where golden-brown crust meets tender chicken. Each bite delivers a savory blend of Parmesan, garlic, and Italian herbs, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
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In another shallow dish, beat the eggs until well combined. In a separate dish, place the all-purpose flour.
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Take each chicken breast and coat it thoroughly in the flour, shaking off any excess.
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Dip the floured chicken breast into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off.
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Finally, press the chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring that it is evenly coated on both sides.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts in batches, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. You may need to adjust the heat to prevent burning.
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After browning, transfer the chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
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Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve alongside your choice of sides.
Note
- This dish can be paired beautifully with a side of pasta or a fresh garden salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to experiment with additional spices or herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Using fresh breadcrumbs instead of store-bought can enhance the flavor and texture of the crust.
- For a creamy twist, serve the chicken with a garlic Alfredo sauce drizzled on top.
