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
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Chicken breasts – 4 boneless, skinless
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All-purpose flour – 1 cup
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Eggs – 2 large, beaten
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Parmesan cheese – 1 cup, grated
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Panko breadcrumbs – 1 cup
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Garlic powder – ½ tsp
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Onion powder – ½ tsp
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Dried basil – ½ tsp
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Dried oregano – ½ tsp
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Salt – ½ tsp
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Black pepper – ¼ tsp
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Olive oil – ¼ cup
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Marinara sauce – 1 cup
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Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded
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Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat & prep:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. -
Set up breading station:
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Dish 1: All-purpose flour.
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Dish 2: Beaten eggs.
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Dish 3: Parmesan, panko, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Bread the chicken:
Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip into eggs, then coat thoroughly with the Parmesan-panko mixture. -
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). -
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. -
Garnish & serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with pasta or a side salad.
Quick Notes & Pro Tips
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Crispier coating: Use a wire rack on the baking sheet so the chicken stays crunchy on all sides.
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Cheese swap: Try provolone or an Italian blend for more flavor depth.
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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
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Serve with buttered spaghetti or garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
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Pair with roasted vegetables or a Caesar salad for a lighter option.
Storage & Make-Ahead
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Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freeze: Bread and pan-fry chicken, then freeze. Add sauce and cheese just before baking.
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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.