Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a delicious dish featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts topped with a crispy, golden parmesan crust. It’s a perfect balance of crunchy cheese and flavorful seasoning, making every bite super satisfying. The combination of parmesan and herbs gives this chicken a nice, comforting taste that feels hearty but not heavy.
I love making this recipe when I want something that feels like a special meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The parmesan crust adds such a nice texture, and it’s fun to hear that little crunch as you cut into the chicken. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with almost anything, from simple steamed veggies to buttery mashed potatoes.
When I serve this, I like to drizzle a little fresh lemon juice over the top—it brightens the flavors right up and makes the dish feel fresh and inviting. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure, and I often find myself making extra because everyone always asks for seconds. This parmesan chicken is proof that a simple twist on classic flavors can make dinner feel both cozy and a bit exciting.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook evenly and stay juicy. If you prefer, boneless thighs work too for a bit more flavor and moisture.
Mayonnaise: This may seem unusual, but it keeps the chicken moist and helps the cheese stick. You can swap it with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Parmesan & Mozzarella Cheese: Parmesan adds sharpness and a crisp crust while mozzarella melts gooey on top. For Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a good substitute, and any mild melting cheese can replace mozzarella.
Bread Crumbs: Seasoned bread crumbs add flavor and crunch. If you want extra crunch, use Panko. Gluten-free bread crumbs work well if avoiding gluten.
How Do I Get a Crispy, Golden Parmesan Crust Every Time?
The secret is layering and care when coating the chicken:
- First, make sure the chicken is dry before dipping. Pat with paper towels to remove moisture.
- Dipping in the mayo-cheese mixture helps bind the bread crumbs and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Press the bread crumbs firmly onto the chicken to create a solid crust.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer on a greased baking dish to avoid sogginess.
- Baking at 400°F (200°C) ensures the crust browns nicely while cooking the chicken fully. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking – this helps keep juices in and improves texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish – I use a 9×13-inch dish because it fits the chicken nicely and spreads heat evenly.
- Mixing bowls – one for the mayonnaise mixture, another for the bread crumbs, making coating easier.
- Meat mallet or rolling pin – helpful for pounding the chicken to an even thickness.
- Cooking spray or olive oil – for greasing the dish and helping the crust crisp up.
- Kitchen tongs – best for dipping and turning the chicken without mess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar instead of mozzarella for a different cheese flavor.
- Add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to the bread crumbs for a little extra heat and color.
- Top with sliced cherry tomatoes or basil before serving for a fresh, bright twist.
- Replace chicken with turkey cutlets for a lighter, leaner version.
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs (or Panko for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20–25 minutes to bake. You’ll spend just a few minutes mixing the cheese coating and breading the chicken. Then pop it in the oven, and in under half an hour, you’ve got a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to keep the chicken from sticking and help the crust get crispy.
2. Mix the Cheese Coating:
In a shallow bowl, stir together mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This creamy mix will coat the chicken and keep it juicy.
3. Prepare the Bread Crumbs:
Spread the seasoned bread crumbs in another shallow dish. These crumbs will add a nice crunch to your chicken once baked.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Dip each chicken breast fully into the mayonnaise and cheese mixture, making sure it’s evenly covered. Then press the coated chicken into the bread crumbs so it forms a nice crust that sticks well.
5. Bake:
Place the breaded chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through by making sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), and the crust should be golden and bubbly on top.
6. Rest and Serve:
Take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like, then serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or broccoli for a full meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight before preparing. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture for better breading adherence.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can bread the chicken breasts in advance and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving to keep the crust crispy and fresh.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain crispiness.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve With This Chicken?
This dish pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or roasted broccoli for a balanced and tasty meal.
