This yummy Parmesan chicken is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. You’ll taste the cheese and spices in every bite, making it a true crowd-pleaser!
Making this dish reminds me of cozy dinners with friends. I love serving it with pasta or a fresh salad—it makes for a tasty meal anyone will enjoy! 🍽️
style breadcrumbs work just fine. You can even use crushed crackers or cornflakes for a different texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re short on time or budget, pre-grated cheese is okay. You might also substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Spices: The garlic powder and onion powder add nice depth. Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs if you have them, like oregano or basil. Just remember, fresh herbs are more potent, so use a smaller amount!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken perfectly cooked while keeping it juicy can be tricky, but here’s how to do it:
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; you want a temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Cook on medium heat. A too-high temperature can burn the crumbs before the chicken cooks through.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices inside!
With these helpful tips and ingredient insights, you’ll be on your way to serving up delicious Parmesan chicken just like at the steakhouse! Enjoy your cooking adventures!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, chicken thighs can also be used for more flavor and tenderness.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. However, if you can’t find them, regular Italian
Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for slight heat)
- 1/4 cup olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare 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 will help them cook evenly and stay juicy.
2. Season the Chicken:
Next, sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts. This basic seasoning enhances the flavor of the chicken.
3. Set Up the Breading Station:
In three shallow bowls, set up your breading station: one bowl with flour, one bowl with beaten eggs mixed with water, and the last bowl with a mix of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, and cayenne pepper. This makes the coating flavorful and tasty!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and first dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the egg mixture, letting any extra liquid drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s well coated on both sides.
5. Fry the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Drain the Chicken:
After the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. This helps keep it crispy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Parmesan chicken warm, with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh burst of flavor. Pair it with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious homemade Parmesan chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used in place of breasts if you prefer more flavor and tenderness. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for even cooking.
How Do I Keep the Chicken Crispy After Cooking?
To keep the chicken crispy, avoid stacking the pieces on top of each other after frying. Place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet or on a paper towel-lined plate. If you need to reheat leftovers, do so in the oven for the best results.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of Italian-style breadcrumbs. The flavor will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps to keep the chicken crispy!
