Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Few things compare to the comfort of a well-cooked piece of chicken that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and blanketed in melted cheese. This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe brings all of that to your kitchen—and more. Inspired by the restaurant classic, this dish combines a crunchy Parmesan-breadcrumb coating with tender, pan-seared chicken, all topped with a cheesy garlic layer that bubbles to golden perfection in the oven.

The first time I had the Parmesan Crusted Chicken at Longhorn Steakhouse, I was hooked. It was the kind of dish that felt indulgent but not heavy, flavorful but balanced. The sharpness of the Parmesan paired beautifully with the gooey mozzarella, while the seasoned crust offered the perfect bite of crunch with every forkful. I remember thinking, “This can’t be that hard to make at home.” And so began my journey into recreating one of my favorite restaurant meals right in my own kitchen.

After a few rounds of testing, tweaking the crust ratio, and figuring out the best way to get the cheese topping just right, this version was born. And let me tell you—it hits every mark. It has the crisp edges, the juicy center, and that ooey-gooey cheese layer that practically begs to be pulled apart. Plus, it’s surprisingly straightforward to make. No fancy ingredients, no complicated techniques. Just classic comfort food with a restaurant-quality finish.

Why You’ll Love This Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

There are so many reasons this Parmesan Crusted Chicken should earn a spot in your weekly meal rotation. Whether you’re looking to recreate restaurant favorites at home, feed a hungry family, or simply enjoy a seriously satisfying dinner, this recipe checks all the right boxes.

To start, one of the biggest reasons to love this dish is how incredibly flavorful it is. The breadcrumb coating is far from ordinary. It’s seasoned with garlic, Italian herbs, and a generous amount of grated Parmesan, giving the chicken a savory, aromatic crust that’s both crunchy and cheesy. When pan-seared, the crust becomes golden and crispy, locking in all the juices from the chicken. Then, the addition of shredded mozzarella and more Parmesan on top brings in that rich, melty finish that takes the dish to the next level.

Another standout feature is how reliable and foolproof the cooking process is. You don’t need to be an experienced chef to master this dish. The steps are easy to follow: bread the chicken, sear it in a skillet, top with cheese, and bake. That’s it. There’s no special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients, and the recipe scales easily if you want to double it for a dinner party or make extra for meal prep.

Health Benefits Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

While this Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken leans more toward the indulgent side of the dinner spectrum, it still has several redeeming qualities that make it a satisfying and balanced option when prepared with care. The key lies in using wholesome ingredients, choosing smart sides, and cooking with intention.

First and foremost, the base of this recipe—chicken breast—is a lean source of protein. It’s naturally low in fat and high in protein, making it a smart option for building and repairing muscle, supporting satiety, and maintaining a healthy metabolism. Each chicken breast provides around 25–30 grams of high-quality protein, which helps keep you full and energized.

The Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses used in the crust and topping offer both flavor and nutritional value. While cheese is higher in fat and calories, it also provides essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12, all of which support bone health and cellular function. By using a modest amount and focusing on freshly grated varieties, you enhance flavor without going overboard on portion sizes.

🔥 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

We’re going step by step through how to recreate Longhorn’s parmesan chicken in your own kitchen. Trust me, it’s way easier than it looks—and so rewarding.

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🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need:

Here’s what you’ll need to make four generous servings:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• ¼ cup milk

• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

🔪 Prep Tip: Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch) so they cook evenly and stay juicy.

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👩‍🍳 Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with foil and spray with oil.

• Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes:

  1. Flour (season with a pinch of salt and pepper)

  2. Egg mixture: Beat eggs with milk

  3. Breadcrumb coating: Mix seasoned breadcrumbs with ½ cup grated Parmesan, garlic, and Italian seasoning

🍽️ Flavor Boost: Add a little extra garlic powder or dried basil to your breadcrumbs for more depth.

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👋 Step 2: Dredge and Bread the Chicken

Now the fun begins:

1. Pat chicken dry with paper towels.

2. Dredge in the flour, coating both sides and shaking off excess.

3. Dip into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.

4. Press into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing to coat fully.

Set aside on a plate while you finish all the pieces.

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🔥 Step 3: Pan-Sear for Extra Crunch

1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Once hot, add breaded chicken (2 at a time if needed).

3. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and crisp. You’re not cooking it all the way through—just crisping the outside.

4. Transfer to your prepared baking dish.

🔥 Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each piece space so the coating stays crispy and doesn’t steam.

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🧀 Step 4: Add the Cheesy Topping

Now for the magic layer!

In a small bowl, mix:

• The remaining ½ cup Parmesan

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• 2 cloves minced garlic

Spoon the cheesy mixture evenly over each chicken breast.

🧄 Flavor Tip: You can also add a tablespoon of mayo to the cheese topping if you want that extra creamy finish, like the restaurant version.

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🔥 Step 5: Bake It

1. Bake the chicken uncovered in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

⏱️ Watch the top after 15 minutes. If it starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent with foil.

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🛑 Step 6: Rest and Garnish

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes out of the oven so the juices redistribute.
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or an extra hit of Parmesan just before serving.

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🍴 How to Serve Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

This Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is rich, savory, and satisfying all on its own—but how you serve it can take it from a simple dinner to a full-on steakhouse experience. Here are a few crowd-pleasing ideas:

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🥔 Steakhouse-Style Dinner Plate

Go all in:

• Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy Yukon gold mash

• Steamed green beans or grilled asparagus

• A slice of buttery garlic bread or warm dinner rolls

Add a wedge of lemon on the side for a little brightness—it cuts through the richness perfectly.

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🥗 Lighter Plate with Greens

Balance the cheesy chicken with a fresh, crisp salad:

• Classic Caesar salad with homemade croutons

• Arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and balsamic glaze

• Spinach and strawberry salad with poppyseed dressing

Top your greens with sliced chicken for an elevated salad that eats like a meal.

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🍝 Pasta-Style

Turn this into a chicken Parm-style pasta night:

• Serve over spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne

• Drizzle with a little warm marinara or just extra garlic butter sauce

• Add shaved Parmesan and red pepper flakes on top

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🥪 Leftover Remix

Chop or slice leftovers for:

• Cheesy chicken sandwiches on brioche buns with lettuce and tomato

• Wraps with ranch, mozzarella, and arugula

• Quesadillas with a little extra mozzarella and marinara dip

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🥗 Pairing Suggestions

Here’s how to complete your Parmesan Crusted Chicken dinner with the perfect sides and drinks—whether you’re aiming for comfort food vibes or a well-balanced plate.

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🥔 Starches That Love Parmesan Chicken

1. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Classic pairing. The smooth texture complements the crunchy crust, and the garlic ties in beautifully.

2. Herb Butter Pasta
Toss cooked pasta with olive oil, butter, and chopped parsley. Soaks up all the cheesy goodness from the chicken.

3. Risotto or Orzo
Try lemon-Parmesan risotto or herbed orzo for something a little elevated but still cozy.

4. Garlic Bread or Breadsticks
Always a good idea. Toast up some crusty bread and swipe it through the melted cheese and pan juices.

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🥬 Veggie Companions

1. Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Zest
Bright, fresh, and it cuts the richness.

2. Roasted Asparagus
Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper—roast until crisp-tender.

3. Grilled Zucchini or Squash
A light and flavorful contrast to the chicken.

4. Side Salad with Vinaigrette
Use a tangy balsamic or lemon vinaigrette to keep the meal balanced.

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🥤 Drink Pairings (Non-Alcoholic)

Sparkling Lemon Water
Light, fizzy, and citrusy—perfect with the buttery chicken.

Iced Black Tea with a Slice of Orange
Refreshing and slightly tannic, this helps cut through the cheese richness.

Pomegranate Spritzer
Mix pomegranate juice with club soda and lemon juice for a fruity, not-too-sweet pairing.

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🧊 Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Let’s be real—leftovers of this Parmesan Crusted Chicken are gold. Here’s how to keep them just as crispy, cheesy, and satisfying the next day (or two).

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🧊 Storing Leftovers

Refrigerator:

• Cool chicken completely before storing.

• Place in an airtight container.

• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Topping Tip: Store any extra sauce or cheese mixture separately if you didn’t bake it all at once—it makes a great topping for veggies or pasta!

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❄️ Freezing Instructions

Chicken (Cooked):

• Let cool completely.

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.

• Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.

• Label and freeze for up to 2 months.

🧊 Note: The cheese topping may not be quite as crispy after thawing, but it’ll still taste delicious.

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🔥 Reheating Tips

Best Method (Oven):

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Place chicken on a baking sheet.

3. Cover loosely with foil (to keep it moist).

4. Heat for 12–15 minutes, until warmed through.

Crispy Finish: Broil for the last 2 minutes to re-crisp the top.

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Microwave (Quickest):

• Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate.

• Cover with a damp paper towel.

• Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Heads up: This method softens the crust, but still works for lunch leftovers.

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Air Fryer (For Crunch):

• Reheat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.

• Great for smaller portions and keeping that crispy texture alive.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

This Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken might taste like it came straight out of your favorite steakhouse kitchen, but it’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home—as long as you steer clear of a few common pitfalls. Here’s how to dodge the most frequent mistakes and nail it on your first try.

1. Skipping the Chicken Prep

Starting with uneven or thick chicken breasts is one of the quickest ways to get unevenly cooked results. If one side is thicker than the other, the thinner part may dry out while waiting for the thickest part to cook through. Always slice and pound your chicken to a uniform thickness for the best results.

2. Using Pre-Grated Cheese

We get it—pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but it often comes coated in anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For that creamy, melty crust like Longhorn’s, freshly grate your Parmesan and mozzarella. It makes a huge difference in both flavor and texture.

3. Pan-Frying at Too High Heat

You want a golden, crisp crust—not burnt crumbs and raw chicken. Medium heat is your friend here. Too high, and the coating will brown too quickly while the inside stays undercooked.

4. Overloading with Cheese Before Baking

It’s tempting to pile on loads of cheese (we’ve all been there), but too much on top can lead to a soggy crust underneath. Stick with the recommended amounts for that perfect melty, golden top without sacrificing crispness.

5. Not Letting the Chicken Rest

After baking, give your chicken at least 5 minutes to rest before slicing into it. This allows the juices to settle and gives the cheese time to firm up slightly for that perfect, gooey finish.

Avoiding these mistakes will help you create a copycat dish that rivals the restaurant version—crispy, juicy, cheesy perfection every time.

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💡 Pro Tips for Best Results

To really nail this Longhorn-inspired Parmesan Crusted Chicken, it’s all about technique. Here are some insider tips to help you get that golden crust and gooey cheese pull that makes this dish unforgettable.

1. Butterfly and Pound the Chicken

Butterflying your chicken breasts (cutting them horizontally and opening them like a book) before pounding them thin ensures even cooking and a more tender bite. Thinner chicken also cooks faster, giving the crust more time to brown without overcooking the meat.

2. Let the Breading Set

After you bread the chicken, let it sit on a wire rack or plate for 10–15 minutes before pan-frying. This little rest time helps the coating “stick,” reducing the risk of it falling off in the pan.

3. Use a Cast Iron or Heavy Skillet

For that restaurant-quality crust, go for a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet. It holds heat well and gives you a consistent sear across the surface. Just don’t forget to preheat it!

4. Mix Up the Cheeses

While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, feel free to experiment! A little provolone or fontina mixed in with the topping gives an ultra-creamy, slightly nutty flavor that melts beautifully.

5. Broil for the Last Minute

If you want that extra bubbly, golden cheese topping, switch to broil for the last 1–2 minutes of baking. Just keep a close eye—cheese can go from golden to burnt fast.

6. Serve with a Simple Pan Sauce (Optional)

Want to make it extra special? After pan-frying the chicken, deglaze the skillet with a splash of chicken broth, a knob of butter, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Drizzle it over the plated chicken for a light, flavorful touch.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re guaranteed a chicken dinner that feels indulgent, satisfying, and totally restaurant-worthy—without the reservation.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If this is your first time making a copycat Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home, you might have a few questions. Here are the answers to the most common ones to help make your cooking experience smooth and successful.

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1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work great in this recipe. They’re naturally juicier and a little more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Just adjust the cooking time—thighs may need a few extra minutes in the oven.

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2. Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but we don’t recommend it. Pre-shredded cheeses are often coated in anti-clumping agents, which can prevent them from melting smoothly. For that signature creamy topping, always grate your own cheese fresh.

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3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bread the chicken earlier in the day and store it (covered) in the fridge until ready to cook. You can also pan-sear ahead and bake right before serving to keep the crust crisp.

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4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes, or in a covered skillet over low heat. Avoid the microwave—it tends to make the crust soggy and the cheese rubbery.

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5. Can I freeze the breaded chicken?

Yes! After breading, freeze the raw chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight, then proceed with pan-searing and baking.

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6. Can I make this gluten-free?

Definitely! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

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7. What are the best side dishes to serve with this?

It pairs beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, steamed broccoli, or a Caesar salad. For something lighter, try arugula tossed in lemon vinaigrette.

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With these FAQs at your fingertips, you’re ready to tackle this recipe with confidence—and maybe even impress a few dinner guests while you’re at it.

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🎉 Conclusion & Call to Action

There’s something about a crispy, cheesy, perfectly golden chicken dinner that just hits all the right notes—and this Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe absolutely delivers. It’s cozy yet elegant, simple yet indulgent, and honestly just pure comfort food bliss.

What makes this dish so special is the way everything comes together: the crispy Parmesan crust, the melty mozzarella topping, the rich garlic seasoning, and that irresistible golden finish. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to add to your rotation—not just for weekends or special occasions, but for those weeknights when you need a guaranteed dinner win.

Whether you’re recreating a restaurant favorite or just looking to shake up your usual chicken routine, this recipe is the answer. It’s surprisingly easy to pull together, and with just a few pantry staples and some fresh cheese, you’re set up for success.

👨‍🍳 I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Did you stick to the original cheeses or add your own twist? Maybe you paired it with pasta or served it over mashed potatoes? Drop a comment, leave a review, or tag your creation on social media—sharing your kitchen wins makes my day!

📌 Don’t forget to save this recipe! Bookmark it, pin it to your dinner board, or print it out for your meal planning folder. It’s the kind of recipe that deserves a permanent place in your go-to meal list.

Here’s to golden, melty, crispy, comforting chicken—the kind that brings everyone to the table and makes them ask for seconds. 🧀🍗✨

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