Copycat Parmesan Chicken

Craving that irresistible combination of crispy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken? This copycat recipe brings the restaurant-famed Parmesan Chicken right to your kitchen. With a perfectly crunchy breadcrumb coating, gooey melted cheeses, and a rich marinara finish, this dish is guaranteed to impress your family and friends—without the need for a reservation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe Copycat Parmesan Chicken

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Restaurant Quality at Home: Enjoy the same flavors you love from Longhorn Steakhouse without stepping out.
Crispy & Juicy: The secret is in the double coating technique—first fried to perfection, then baked with melted cheese.
Customizable Comfort Food:

Tweak the spices or add your favorite herbs to suit your taste, making it uniquely yours.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this recipe is both straightforward and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Pounded to an even thickness (about ½-inch)
1 Cup All-Purpose Flour
2 Large Eggs, Beaten
1 ½ Cups Italian-Style Breadcrumbs (panko or a mix of panko and regular breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
1 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Dried Oregano
½ tsp Salt
½ tsp Black Pepper

For the Topping & Cooking:

2 Cups Marinara Sauce (store-bought or homemade for extra flavor)
1 ½ Cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
2 tbsp Olive Oil (for frying)
Fresh Basil or Parsley, Chopped (for garnish)

Note: Adjust seasoning to taste, and feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Flatten: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound until it reaches an even thickness of about ½-inch. This helps in cooking evenly.
Season: Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper.

2. Set Up Your Breading Station

Bowl 1: Combine the flour with Italian seasoning.
Bowl 2: Beat the eggs until smooth.
Bowl 3: Mix the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Dip each chicken breast in the flour first, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs onto the chicken so they adhere well.

3. Fry the Chicken

Heat: Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook: Fry the breaded chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, until each side is golden and crispy. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from the skillet and let the excess oil drain on paper towels.

4. Bake with Sauce & Cheese

Preheat: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange: Place the fried chicken breasts on a baking sheet.
Top: Spoon a generous layer of marinara sauce over each piece, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella (and extra Parmesan, if desired).
Bake: Pop the tray into the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden topping.

5. Garnish & Serve

Finish: Remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley.
Enjoy: Serve immediately with your choice of sides—think pasta, garlic bread, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.

Nutrition Snapshot

Per Serving (approximate values, based on 4 servings):

Calories: 550
Total Fat: 28g (Saturated Fat: 9g)
Cholesterol: 130mg
Sodium: 1200mg
Carbohydrates: 34g (Dietary Fiber: 2g, Sugars: 6g)
Protein: 39g

Tip: For a lighter version, consider baking the breaded chicken instead of frying, or use whole wheat breadcrumbs to add a bit more fiber.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Pasta Pairing: Serve over a bed of spaghetti tossed in extra marinara for a traditional Italian twist.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Fresh Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Try a medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a healthy, colorful side.

Additional Tips & FAQs

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A1: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs will give you a juicier result, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Q2: How do I keep the chicken crispy?
A2: For extra crunch, allow the fried chicken to rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels before baking. This prevents the breading from getting soggy.

Q3: Can this dish be made ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can bread and fry the chicken, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, top with sauce and cheese and bake until warmed through.

Q4: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A4: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to retain the crispy texture, or use an air fryer for a few minutes.

Conclusion

This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe is a stellar way to enjoy a beloved restaurant dish in your own home. With its crispy exterior, melty cheesy topping, and succulent chicken inside, it’s a meal that delivers both comfort and flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this recipe will undoubtedly become a new favorite in your household. Grab your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to savor every bite of your homemade Parmesan Chicken!

Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe