✓ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✓ What Is Longhorn Parmesan Chicken?
✓ Key Ingredients You’ll Need
✓ How to Make Parmesan Chicken – Step-by-Step
✓ Chef’s Tips for a Juicy Chicken Breast
✓ Topping Variations You Can Try
✓ What to Serve With Parmesan Chicken
✓ Storing & Reheating Leftovers
✓ Common Questions (FAQs)
✓ Printable Recipe Card
✓ Final Thoughts
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’ve ever dined at Longhorn Steakhouse and tasted their signature Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you know it’s not your average chicken dinner. Now imagine recreating that golden, cheesy crust at home—with all the flavor, and none of the price tag. This easy, from-scratch version is:
- Crispy outside, juicy inside
- Ready in under 40 minutes
- Made with pantry-friendly ingredients
- Adaptable to low-carb and gluten-free diets
- Perfect for meal prep or weekend dinners
This copycat recipe brings restaurant elegance straight to your kitchen—with step-by-step instructions designed for cooks of all levels.
What Is Longhorn Parmesan Chicken?
Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a grilled chicken breast, topped with a blend of creamy Parmesan, mozzarella, and panko, often broiled for an irresistible bubbly finish.
What sets this dish apart is the topping—it’s not just cheese. It includes mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic seasoning, and paprika, giving it a sharp, savory bite balanced by creamy richness.
It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly simple once broken down.
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
🔸 For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil – for grilling
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
🔸 For the Parmesan Topping:
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)
- 1 tsp lemon juice – brightens the richness
- ½ tsp paprika – adds color and warmth
🔸 Optional for Extra Crunch:
- 2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs – for extra crisp crust
How to Make Parmesan Chicken – Step-by-Step
Here’s your foolproof guide to making this mouthwatering meal:
🔹 Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment.
🔹 Step 2: Season the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry.
- Rub with olive oil.
- Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
🔹 Step 3: Grill or Sear the Chicken
- Use a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and the internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).
✅ Tip: Searing locks in moisture and adds smoky depth.
🔹 Step 4: Make the Parmesan Crust
In a bowl, mix:
- Parmesan
- Mozzarella
- Mayonnaise
- Lemon juice
- Paprika
For crunch, fold in panko breadcrumbs here.
🔹 Step 5: Bake the Chicken
- Place seared chicken breasts in the baking dish.
- Spoon the topping evenly over each.
- Bake for 7–8 minutes, or until the topping is golden and slightly bubbling.
🔥 For extra browning, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Chef’s Tips for a Juicy Chicken Breast
- Pound thick breasts to even thickness—this ensures even cooking.
- Let chicken rest 5 minutes after grilling to hold juices.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo if you’re watching calories.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a spicy edge.
Topping Variations You Can Try
Want to make it your own? Try these variations:
| Variation | What to Add |
|---|---|
| Herb Crust | Add fresh basil, parsley, or thyme to the topping. |
| Spicy Kick | Add cayenne or red pepper flakes. |
| Low-Fat Version | Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo. |
| Gluten-Free | Skip breadcrumbs or use GF panko. |
| Bacon Lover’s | Add chopped crispy bacon on top. |
What to Serve With Parmesan Chicken
This dish pairs well with both light and indulgent sides. Try:
🥔 Comforting Sides
- Mashed potatoes
- Creamy mac & cheese
- Garlic butter pasta
🥗 Low-Carb & Fresh Options
- Roasted asparagus or broccoli
- Zucchini noodles
- Cauliflower mash
- Mixed greens with vinaigrette
🍷 Drink pairing tip: A crisp Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon.
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
🧊 Storage:
- Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
🔥 To Reheat:
- Oven: 350°F for 10 minutes (best for crispy topping)
- Air fryer: 350°F for 6 minutes
- Avoid microwave—it softens the topping
You can also freeze (without topping) for up to 2 months.
Common Questions (FAQs)
❓ Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work great. Adjust cook time as needed—they’re more forgiving than breasts.
❓ Can I make this in the air fryer?
Yes! Grill/sear the chicken first, then add the topping and finish in the air fryer at 375°F for 5 minutes.
❓ Can I make it ahead of time?
You can prep everything (season chicken, make topping) ahead. Assemble and bake just before serving.
❓ How do I make it keto?
Omit breadcrumbs, use full-fat cheese and mayo. Serve with roasted veggies or cauliflower mash.
Printable Recipe Card
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken – Copycat Version
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Servings: 4
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
For the topping:
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ¼ cup mozzarella
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp paprika
- (Optional: 2 tbsp panko)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season chicken. Grill 5–6 mins per side until internal temp is 165°F.
- Mix topping. Spread on chicken.
- Bake 7–8 mins. Broil 2–3 mins for crispiness.
- Rest & serve with desired side.
Tips: Use Greek yogurt for light version. Add herbs or bacon for flair.
Final Thoughts
This homemade Longhorn Parmesan Chicken recipe is more than just a weeknight dinner—it’s your ticket to a restaurant-quality experience without leaving home. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can wow your family and friends with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding a crowd, or impressing guests, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver big flavor with minimal effort.
⭐ If you loved this recipe, share it on Pinterest or save it for later. And don’t forget to check out our full blog for more restaurant-style recipes made easy at home!
