This copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a true winner. It’s juicy chicken topped with a crispy, cheesy crust that will make your taste buds dance!
You’ll love how simple it is to whip this up at home. I often serve it with mashed potatoes and green beans. Comfort food at its best! Who could say no to that cheesy goodness? 😋
Making this dish is a breeze! Just coat your chicken, bake, and enjoy. It feels fancy but comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy nights or impressing guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here, but you can also use thighs if you prefer a juicier piece of meat. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Parmesan Cheese: For the best flavor, go for freshly grated Parmesan. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative, though the taste will vary a bit.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko adds a nice crunch. If you don’t have it, regular breadcrumbs work too, but you might miss that extra crispiness. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.
Mayonnaise: It keeps the chicken moist and adds flavor. If you’re not a fan, Greek yogurt is a healthier substitute that works similarly. You could also try sour cream for a tangy twist.
Cream and Chicken Broth: These are used to make a rich sauce. If you’re looking for lighter options, use a lower-fat cream or even coconut milk for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Get That Perfect, Crispy Crust?
Creating that crispy, golden-brown crust is essential for this recipe. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with dry chicken breasts. Pat them with paper towels if they’re moist.
- Coat the breasts well with mayonnaise before pressing them into the breadcrumb mix. This step ensures the breadcrumbs stick and creates that delicious crust while baking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; space the chicken breasts apart. This allows the hot air to circulate evenly, getting them crisp all around.
- Bake them on parchment paper. It helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier. Plus, it’s great for achieving even crispness.
- Finally, resist the urge to open the oven door too often! Letting out heat can affect the cooking time and the crust’s crispiness.
How to Make Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Cream Sauce:
- 1 cup cream (for sauce)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, for a total of 40-45 minutes from start to finish. You’ll mix up the ingredients, coat the chicken, and bake it to perfection while preparing a creamy sauce to drizzle over the top. Simple and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot for baking your chicken!
2. Prepare the Coating Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together well and set it aside for later.
3. Coat the Chicken:
In a separate bowl, spread the mayonnaise over each chicken breast, making sure to coat them fully. This will help the breadcrumb mixture stick and add flavor!
4. Bread the Chicken:
Take the mayonnaise-coated chicken breasts and press them into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure they are evenly coated on both sides for a crispy texture.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the crust is golden brown.
6. Make the Cream Sauce:
While the chicken is baking, it’s time to whip up the cream sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
7. Finish the Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce, allowing it to simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
8. Let the Chicken Rest:
Once the chicken is done baking, let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making your chicken juicy and delicious!
9. Serve with Sauce:
Plate your gorgeous chicken, drizzle it generously with the cream sauce, and garnish with chopped parsley and chives, if you like. It adds a lovely touch of color and flavor!
10. Enjoy!
Your Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is ready to be served hot! Enjoy every bite of this delightful homemade dish!
Can I Substitute Mayonnaise in This Recipe?
Yes, if you want to make it lighter or need a substitution, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a replacement for mayonnaise. It will give the chicken a slightly tangy flavor while keeping it moist. You can also use sour cream if you prefer something richer!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. You can also check that your chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten!
Can I Store Leftover Chicken and Sauce?
Absolutely! Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to the sauce if it thickens too much. This will help keep it creamy and delicious!
What Can I Serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
This chicken pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. You can also serve it over pasta for a filling meal. Don’t forget to drizzle extra cream sauce over everything for added flavor!
