Easy Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

If you love the crispy, flavorful punch of restaurant-quality chicken, you’re going to adore this Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe. It brings the irresistible, golden Parmesan crust right into your own kitchen, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s both easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Perfectly tender inside with a crunchy coating outside, this recipe captures everything that makes the Longhorn version so addictive, and you’ll be whipping it up again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crunchy Perfection: The Parmesan and breadcrumbs create a golden crust that’s delightfully crispy with every bite.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that are easy to find and combine for a rich, flavorful dish.
• Quick Prep Time: From start to finish, it’s about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
• Family Friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Easily adapted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe uses straightforward, hearty ingredients that work together to create its signature savory crunch and juicy interior. Each component adds essential texture and flavor to elevate the dish to restaurant-level goodness.

• Chicken Breasts: Thinly sliced or pounded for even cooking and tender bites.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for the best crust flavor and aroma.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Provides an extra crunch compared to traditional breadcrumbs.
• Garlic Powder: Adds subtle, warm undertones that enhance the savory crust.
• Onion Powder: Gives depth and mild sweetness to the coating.
• Eggs: Helps bind the crust to the chicken perfectly.
• Flour: Lightly coats the chicken, allowing the egg and crust to adhere well.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning that brings out all the flavors.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For pan-frying and browning the crust to golden perfection.

Variations for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This recipe is so versatile that tweaking it is a breeze—whether you want to accommodate dietary restrictions, add a new flavor dimension, or keep things classic. Feel free to experiment with these easy variations!

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the breadcrumb mix for an aromatic twist.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate chili powder or cayenne pepper into the crust for some heat.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts to keep it crispy.
• Cheesy Combo: Mix Parmesan with shredded mozzarella or Asiago for a richer cheese flavor.
• Baked Version: Skip frying and bake in the oven for a lighter, but still delicious, alternative.

How to Make Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by trimming the chicken breasts of any excess fat, then pound them to an even thickness to ensure quick, even cooking and maximum tenderness.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour seasoned with salt and pepper, beaten eggs, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

First, dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by the breadcrumb and Parmesan mix, pressing gently to create a thick, even crust.

Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the crust is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juiciness before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Even Thickness: Pounding the chicken ensures uniform cooking and prevents dryness.
• Fresh Parmesan: Always grate your own Parmesan for the best texture and flavor in the crust.
• Press the Coating: Firmly press the breadcrumb mixture onto the chicken to avoid shedding during cooking.
• Medium Heat Pan: Use medium heat for frying to get a crispy crust without burning.
• Rest Before Serving: Resting the chicken helps keep it moist and juicy inside.

How to Serve Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or basil sprinkled on top add a burst of color and fresh aroma that complements the richness of the Parmesan crust perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad to balance richness with freshness and round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken and layer it over pasta tossed in a light garlic butter sauce or alongside a vibrant tomato bruschetta for a colorful plate that wows.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, perfect for quick lunches or dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to preserve the crispy crust better than microwaving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well and tend to stay more moist, though cooking time may vary slightly depending on thickness.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed nuts or gluten-free bread crumbs to make it safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.

How do I make the chicken extra crispy?

Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan, and use medium heat to get a perfect, crunchy crust every time.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, baking at 425°F for 20-25 minutes on a greased baking sheet yields a crispy, healthier option, though the texture differs slightly from frying.

What dipping sauces pair well with this chicken?

Classic ranch, honey mustard, or a tangy marinara sauce all complement the cheesy, crispy flavors beautifully and add a delicious contrast.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a fantastic way to bring restaurant-quality flavors and textures into your own kitchen without any fuss. It’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Give it a try, customize it to your liking, and savor every crunchy, juicy bite!

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