Longhorn Parmesan Chicken: A Crispy, Cheesy Delight

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If there’s one dish that never fails to impress, it’s Longhorn Parmesan Chicken. With its golden, crispy crust, rich and creamy Parmesan sauce, and juicy, tender chicken, this recipe is a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home. I love how the flavors of garlic, butter, and cheese blend together to create the ultimate comfort food. It’s a dish that feels fancy enough for a special dinner but easy enough to whip up on a weeknight.

What makes this chicken so irresistible is the contrast in textures—the crispy breading against the creamy Parmesan topping is pure perfection. It’s packed with flavor and pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

• Crispy, Golden Coating: The breadcrumb and Parmesan crust adds the perfect crunch.
• Rich, Creamy Sauce: A buttery garlic-Parmesan sauce takes it to the next level.
• Easy to Make: No complicated techniques—just simple ingredients with big flavor.
• Versatile: Serve it with pasta, veggies, or even on a sandwich.
• Better Than Takeout: Enjoy restaurant-quality chicken at home, anytime.

What Kind of Parmesan Should I Use?

For the best flavor, I recommend using freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded or powdered Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture and meltability of the cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce and adds a rich, nutty flavor to the crispy chicken coating. If you want an even deeper taste, try using Parmigiano-Reggiano—its aged, bold flavor takes this dish to the next level.

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Options for Substitutions

Whether you have dietary preferences or just need to use what’s in your kitchen, here are some great substitutions:

• Chicken Breasts: You can swap for chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs will give you a crunchier texture, but regular breadcrumbs work too. For a low-carb version, try crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
• Parmesan Cheese: If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are great alternatives with a similar salty, nutty flavor.
• Heavy Cream: If you don’t have heavy cream for the sauce, half-and-half or whole milk can work, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
• Garlic Butter Sauce: If you’re dairy-free, use olive oil or a vegan butter substitute.

These swaps ensure that you can still enjoy delicious Longhorn Parmesan Chicken, no matter what ingredients you have on hand!

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Ingredients for This Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Every ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role in bringing out its signature flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. They cook evenly and develop a crispy golden crust.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan adds richness to the sauce and enhances the crispy coating.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – These create a light and crunchy crust, giving the chicken that restaurant-style texture.
• Garlic Powder – Infuses the chicken with a warm, savory depth of flavor.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best in the chicken.
• Eggs – Helps the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken, ensuring an even, crispy coating.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps create a golden crust when cooking the chicken.
• Olive Oil – Used for pan-frying, it helps achieve that perfect crispiness.
• Heavy Cream – The base for the creamy Parmesan sauce, giving it a smooth and velvety texture.
• Garlic Cloves – Fresh garlic enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.
• Chicken Broth – Adds a bit of savory richness to the sauce while keeping it from being too heavy.
• Mozzarella Cheese (optional) – If you like extra cheesiness, adding some shredded mozzarella makes the dish even more indulgent.
• Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds freshness and color to the final dish.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for maximum flavor.

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Step 2: Bread the Chicken

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with whisked eggs, one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan, and one with flour (optional for extra crispiness). Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat it with the Parmesan-panko mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.

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Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a mix of butter and olive oil. Once hot, cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil while you prepare the sauce.

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Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a minute before adding the heavy cream. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan and let the sauce thicken. If you want extra cheesiness, mix in some shredded mozzarella.

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Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the crispy chicken to the pan, spooning some of the sauce over each piece. Let it simmer for a minute to absorb the flavors. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

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How Long to Cook Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Cooking times will vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts, but here’s a general guide:

• Pan-Frying the Chicken: Cook each breast for 4-5 minutes per side over medium heat until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
• Simmering in Sauce: Once the sauce is ready, let the chicken sit in it for about 1-2 minutes to soak up the flavors without becoming soggy.

If using thicker chicken breasts, you may need to lower the heat and cook a bit longer to ensure they’re fully cooked without burning the crust.

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Tips for Perfect Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

• Pound the Chicken Evenly – This ensures uniform cooking and prevents dry spots.
• Use Fresh Parmesan – Pre-grated cheese won’t melt as smoothly into the sauce.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to keep the crust crisp.
• Let the Oil Get Hot Before Frying – This helps create a crispy golden-brown crust instead of a soggy coating.
• Don’t Skip Resting the Chicken – Letting it rest before adding to the sauce helps retain its crunch.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of freshness to balance the richness.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple recipe like Longhorn Parmesan Chicken can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

• Using Cold Chicken – Always let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. Cold chicken won’t cook evenly.
• Skipping the Breading Process – The crispy coating is what makes this dish special! Don’t rush the breading; press the panko mixture onto the chicken to help it stick.
• Overcrowding the Pan – Cooking too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken instead of crispy perfection.
• Burning the Garlic – Garlic burns quickly! Sauté it just until fragrant before adding the liquid ingredients for the sauce.
• Using Pre-Shredded Parmesan – It doesn’t melt as smoothly as fresh Parmesan and can make the sauce grainy.
• Not Checking the Internal Temperature – Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) without overcooking.
• Skipping the Resting Step – Letting the chicken sit for a minute before serving helps the coating stay crispy and the juices redistribute.

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What to Serve With Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides! Here are some of my favorite options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

The creamy Parmesan sauce tastes incredible over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes.

2. Roasted Vegetables

A mix of roasted asparagus, zucchini, and bell peppers balances the richness of the dish.

3. Buttery Parmesan Pasta

A simple pasta with butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan complements the flavors perfectly.

4. Steamed Broccoli

For a lighter side, steamed broccoli adds a healthy touch without overpowering the dish.

5. Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with homemade dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.

6. Garlic Bread

Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra Parmesan sauce.

7. Rice Pilaf

Fluffy rice cooked in chicken broth makes for a comforting and neutral side dish.

8. Creamed Spinach

The rich, velvety texture of creamed spinach pairs wonderfully with the crispy chicken.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—Longhorn Parmesan Chicken stores well and reheats beautifully!

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the crispy texture.
• Freezing: While the chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months, the crispy coating may soften. To freeze, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. The sauce can also be frozen separately in an airtight container.
• Reheating:
  • Oven (Best Method): Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake the chicken on a wire rack for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of butter or oil for a few minutes per side.
  • Microwave (Not Recommended for Crispiness): Heat in 30-second intervals, but note the coating may become soft.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on a 4-ounce chicken breast with sauce):

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: ~40g
• Fat: ~28g
• Carbohydrates: ~10g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Sugar: ~1g

These values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes. For a lighter version, use less butter and opt for a lower-fat dairy alternative.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay extra juicy. Just adjust the cooking time since thighs may take a bit longer.

2. How do I keep the chicken crispy after cooking?

Let the chicken rest on a wire rack instead of a plate to prevent steam from softening the crust. Also, avoid covering it tightly with foil.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free panko or crushed pork rinds for the coating and swap regular flour for almond flour or a gluten-free blend.

4. What’s the best way to reheat without making the chicken soggy?

The oven is the best method—bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore the crispiness.

5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the Parmesan sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

6. Can I air-fry the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes! Cook the breaded chicken in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. It will still turn out crispy with less oil.

7. What can I do if my sauce turns out too thick?

Simply add a splash of chicken broth or milk and stir over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency.

8. Can I make this dish spicy?

Definitely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a bit of heat.

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Conclusion

Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with your family and friends so they can enjoy it too!

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