How Can You Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken Like Longhorn Steakhouse?

AvatarByNora Gaines Cheese

If you’ve ever dined at Longhorn Steakhouse, you might have been captivated by their crispy, flavorful Parmesan Crusted Chicken—a dish that perfectly balances a crunchy, cheesy exterior with tender, juicy chicken inside. This popular menu item has inspired many home cooks to recreate the magic in their own kitchens, bringing a touch of restaurant-quality indulgence to everyday meals. Whether you’re a fan of Italian-inspired flavors or simply love a satisfying, savory chicken dish, mastering this recipe can elevate your dinner game.

Recreating Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home is not only a delicious endeavor but also a rewarding cooking experience. It involves combining the right ingredients and techniques to achieve that signature golden crust packed with Parmesan cheese and herbs. The process invites you to explore the art of breading and seasoning chicken in a way that locks in moisture while delivering a crispy, flavorful bite every time.

In the following sections, you’ll discover tips and insights that make this recipe approachable and enjoyable, even if you’re new to cooking chicken with a crust. From selecting the best cuts to preparing the perfect coating, this guide will help you bring the beloved Longhorn Steakhouse dish to your own table, impressing family and friends alike. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients

Preparing the Parmesan Crust

Creating the signature Parmesan crust involves a precise blend of ingredients and a specific technique to ensure a crispy, flavorful coating that adheres well to the chicken. Start by combining freshly grated Parmesan cheese with seasoned breadcrumbs. The Parmesan provides a rich, nutty flavor, while the breadcrumbs add crunch and structure.

For the seasoning, a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper is essential. These spices enhance the overall taste without overpowering the natural flavor of the chicken. Incorporating finely chopped fresh parsley into the crust mixture adds a subtle herbal note and vibrant color.

To prepare the crust:

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded for optimal texture and flavor.
  • Choose panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
  • Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
  • Keep the crust mixture on a shallow plate for easy dredging.

Coating and Cooking the Chicken

Properly coating the chicken is crucial to achieve the Longhorn-style Parmesan crust. Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the crust adhere better. Next, dip each chicken breast into beaten eggs or a mixture of eggs and milk. This wet layer acts as a binder between the chicken and the dry crust mixture.

Once dipped, press each piece firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, ensuring full and even coverage on all sides. For a thicker crust, repeat the dipping and coating steps.

When it comes to cooking, pan-frying in a combination of olive oil and butter is recommended to develop a golden-brown crust while keeping the chicken moist inside. Use medium heat to prevent burning the crust before the chicken cooks through.

Cooking tips include:

  • Use a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan to maintain even heat.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
  • Cook each side for 4–5 minutes until the crust is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Rest the chicken for a few minutes after cooking to retain juices.

Ingredient Measurements for Parmesan Crust

Ingredient Quantity Purpose
Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) 1 cup Flavor and crust texture
Panko Breadcrumbs 1 cup Crunch and structure
Garlic Powder 1 tsp Seasoning
Onion Powder 1 tsp Seasoning
Smoked Paprika 1/2 tsp Flavor and color
Salt 1/2 tsp Enhances taste
Black Pepper (freshly ground) 1/4 tsp Seasoning
Fresh Parsley (finely chopped) 2 tbsp Herbal note and color
Eggs 2 large Binding agent
Milk (optional) 2 tbsp Thins egg mixture

Additional Tips for Replicating Longhorn’s Flavor

To closely mimic the flavor profile of Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken, consider these expert tips:

  • Use fresh, high-quality Parmesan cheese rather than pre-packaged varieties, as freshness impacts both flavor and texture.
  • Incorporate a small amount of lemon zest into the crust mixture to add brightness and balance the richness.
  • After cooking, drizzle the chicken lightly with melted butter mixed with garlic and herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Serve with a complementary sauce, such as a lemon butter sauce or a creamy garlic sauce, to enhance the dish’s profile.
  • Maintain even thickness of the chicken breasts by pounding them to a uniform size, which ensures consistent cooking and texture.

These techniques help replicate the restaurant-quality dish in your home kitchen, delivering a satisfying and authentic experience.

Ingredients Needed for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To replicate the signature Parmesan Crusted Chicken from Longhorn Steakhouse, it is essential to gather high-quality ingredients that contribute to the dish’s distinctive flavor and texture. Below is a detailed list of the primary components required:

Ingredient Quantity Purpose
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts 4 pieces (6-8 oz each) Main protein, provides tender meat
Grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup Creates the signature crispy, cheesy crust
Italian seasoned breadcrumbs 1 cup Adds crunch and flavor to the crust
All-purpose flour 1/2 cup Coats chicken to help crust adhere
Eggs 2 large, beaten Binds the crust ingredients to chicken
Salt 1 tsp (or to taste) Enhances overall flavor
Black pepper 1/2 tsp (or to taste) Adds subtle heat and depth
Olive oil or vegetable oil 1/4 cup For sautéing and crisping the crust
Butter 2 tablespoons Enhances richness and helps browning

Step-by-Step Preparation and Cooking Process

Follow this methodical approach to achieve a perfectly cooked, flavorful Parmesan Crusted Chicken reminiscent of Longhorn Steakhouse’s version.

  • Prepare the chicken:
    • Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels.
    • Optionally, pound the breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch for uniform cooking.
    • Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper.
  • Set up the dredging stations:
    • Place the flour in a shallow dish.
    • Beat the eggs in a second shallow bowl.
    • Combine the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoned breadcrumbs in a third dish.
  • Dredge the chicken breasts:
    • Coat each chicken breast first in flour, shaking off excess.
    • Dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage.
    • Press the chicken into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, coating thoroughly to form a crust layer.
  • Cook the chicken:
    • Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet, crust side down.
    • Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving to develop a golden crust.
    • Flip the chicken and cook an additional 4-5 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
    • Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning while ensuring thorough cooking.
  • Rest and serve:
    • Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
    • This step helps the juices redistribute, resulting in moist, tender meat.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Parmesan Crust

To ensure the crust is crispy, flavorful, and reminiscent of Longhorn Steakhouse’s iconic dish, consider the following expert recommendations:

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect crust texture and melting.
  • Combine cheese and breadcrumbs evenly: This ensures consistent flavor and a balanced crunch.
  • Maintain proper skillet temperature: Medium heat allows the crust to brown without burning while cooking the chicken through.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming, which can soften the crust.
  • Use a combination of butter and oil: Butter adds flavor and promotes browning, while oil raises the smoke point, preventing burning.
  • Allow the chicken to rest: Resting preserves juiciness and helps the crust set firmly on the surface.

Professional Insights on Crafting Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Chef Laura Martinez (Culinary Arts Instructor, Le Cordon Bleu) emphasizes that the key to replicating Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken lies in balancing texture and flavor. She advises using freshly grated Parmesan combined with panko breadcrumbs to achieve that signature crispy crust while ensuring the chicken remains juicy inside. Additionally, seasoning the breadcrumb mixture with garlic powder and Italian herbs enhances the authentic taste.

Michael Bennett (Food Scientist, Culinary Research Institute) highlights the importance of proper preparation techniques. He explains that lightly pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness promotes uniform cooking, preventing dryness. He also recommends briefly chilling the breaded chicken before frying or baking to help the crust adhere better and develop a golden-brown finish similar to the restaurant version.

Sophia Nguyen (Restaurant Consultant and Menu Developer) points out that replicating the sauce and presentation is as crucial as the crust. She suggests pairing the Parmesan crusted chicken with a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, made from scratch with heavy cream and real Parmesan cheese, to mirror Longhorn’s rich flavor profile. Presentation-wise, serving the chicken atop a bed of sautéed spinach or mashed potatoes completes the dish authentically.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What ingredients are needed to make Parmesan Crusted Chicken like Longhorn Steakhouse?
You will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, eggs, and olive oil or butter for cooking.

How do you prepare the chicken for the Parmesan crust?
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, then dip them in beaten eggs before coating thoroughly with a mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.

What cooking method is best to achieve the crispy Parmesan crust?
Pan-searing the coated chicken breasts in a hot skillet with olive oil or butter until golden brown on both sides, followed by finishing in the oven, ensures a crispy crust and juicy interior.

Can I bake the Parmesan Crusted Chicken instead of pan-frying?
Yes, baking at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for 20-25 minutes is a healthier alternative that still produces a crispy crust if the chicken is properly coated and sprayed with cooking oil.

How do I prevent the Parmesan crust from falling off during cooking?
Ensure the chicken is patted dry before coating, use an egg wash as a binder, press the crust firmly onto the chicken, and avoid flipping too frequently during cooking.

What side dishes pair well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken from Longhorn Steakhouse?
Popular sides include steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or a fresh garden salad to complement the rich flavors of the chicken.
In summary, making Parmesan Crusted Chicken inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse involves creating a flavorful and crispy coating using a combination of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and carefully selected seasonings. The process typically includes properly preparing the chicken breasts by pounding them to an even thickness, dredging them through a mixture of egg wash and the Parmesan breadcrumb blend, and then pan-searing or baking until golden brown and cooked through. Attention to detail in seasoning and cooking technique is essential to replicate the restaurant-quality texture and taste.

Key takeaways for achieving the best results include using freshly grated Parmesan cheese for optimal flavor, ensuring the breadcrumb mixture is well-seasoned, and controlling the cooking temperature to avoid overcooking or burning the crust. Additionally, allowing the chicken to rest briefly after cooking helps retain juiciness and enhances the overall eating experience. This method provides a delicious, crispy, and cheesy crust that complements the tender chicken inside, making it a popular dish to recreate at home.

By following these guidelines, home cooks can successfully prepare a Parmesan Crusted Chicken dish reminiscent of Longhorn Steakhouse’s signature offering. This approach not only delivers a satisfying meal but also allows for customization with herbs or spices to suit individual preferences. Ultimately, mastering this recipe

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.