This Easy Parmesan Chicken is crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor! Coated in tasty Parmesan and breadcrumbs, it’s simple to make and perfect for dinner anytime.
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy crunch? I love serving it with pasta or a salad, and let’s be real, it’s a total crowd-pleaser! You’ll be the superstar chef tonight! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish, as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work great too!
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add a fantastic flavor. If you don’t have them, you can use plain breadcrumbs mixed with a little Italian seasoning or make your own by grinding stale bread.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness. For a stronger flavor, try using Pecorino Romano. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast to give a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Oil: Vegetable oil is good for frying, but you can also use canola or grapeseed oil for a healthier option. Just avoid olive oil as it has a lower smoke point when frying.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Breaded Chicken?
Breading chicken can be tricky, but there’s a simple way to get it right. The key is to properly coat the chicken. Start with a light dusting of flour to help the egg stick, as it binds the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
- Make sure to shake off the excess flour before dipping into the egg mixture. This prevents clumping.
- Coat each piece completely with breadcrumbs. Press them in lightly to ensure they adhere well.
- Let the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before frying. This helps the coating stick during cooking!
Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Style Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 1/2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- Optional: lemon wedges and chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Parmesan Chicken takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner when you’re short on time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook evenly. Season both sides with salt and pepper to add flavor.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Next, gather three shallow dishes. In the first dish, pour in the flour. In the second dish, crack the two eggs and add the water; whisk them together until mixed well. In the third dish, combine the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Now for the fun part! Take each chicken breast and dip it first into the flour, making sure to shake off any excess flour. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Press the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick well.
4. Fry the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let It Rest:
After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to enjoy your delicious Parmesan Chicken! Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if you like. It pairs wonderfully with sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a crisp salad. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Style Parmesan Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best results, and maintain the same cooking time if they’re of similar thickness.
What If I Don’t Have Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can easily make your own by mixing plain breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. This way, you can control the flavor to your liking!
Can I Bake This Chicken Instead of Frying It?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After breading, place the chicken on a greased baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. This option is healthier and still delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Parmesan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help keep the coating crispy!
