Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Golden, crispy chicken breasts topped with melty mozzarella and marinara — this homemade version brings that restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Chicken breasts – 4 boneless, skinless

  • All-purpose flour – 1 cup

  • Eggs – 2 large, beaten

  • Parmesan cheese – 1 cup, grated

  • Panko breadcrumbs – 1 cup

  • Garlic powder – ½ tsp

  • Onion powder – ½ tsp

  • Dried basil – ½ tsp

  • Dried oregano – ½ tsp

  • Salt – ½ tsp

  • Black pepper – ¼ tsp

  • Olive oil – ¼ cup

  • Marinara sauce – 1 cup

  • Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded

  • Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat & prep:
    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.

  2. Set up breading station:

    • Dish 1: All-purpose flour.

    • Dish 2: Beaten eggs.

    • Dish 3: Parmesan, panko, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

  3. Bread the chicken:
    Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip into eggs, then coat thoroughly with the Parmesan-panko mixture.

  4. Pan-fry:
    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown (don’t fully cook through).

  5. Assemble & bake:
    Transfer chicken to the prepared baking dish. Top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F internally and cheese is bubbly.

  6. Garnish & serve:
    Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with pasta or a side salad.

Quick Notes & Pro Tips

  • Crispier coating: Use a wire rack on the baking sheet so the chicken stays crunchy on all sides.

  • Cheese swap: Try provolone or an Italian blend for more flavor depth.

  • Pound the chicken: Even thickness ensures faster, more even cooking.

Why You’ll Love It

This dish combines the best of chicken parmesan and Longhorn’s famous crispy-crusted chicken — hearty, cheesy, and perfect for an elevated weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with buttered spaghetti or garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

  • Pair with roasted vegetables or a Caesar salad for a lighter option.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Freeze: Bread and pan-fry chicken, then freeze. Add sauce and cheese just before baking.

  • Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Adjust baking time by a few minutes for bone-in or thicker cuts.

Q: Can I skip the pan-frying step?
A: Yes, but the crust will be less crispy. Bake directly for 30–35 minutes instead.

Q: Can I make this low-carb?
A: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds.

Personal Note

This is one of my go-to “fancy but easy” dinners. It’s indulgent enough for company but simple enough for a weeknight — and tastes just like the restaurant favorite.

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