Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken: Make It at Home!

If you’ve ever dined at Longhorn Steakhouse, you probably know about their famous Parmesan Crusted Chicken — it’s juicy, savory, perfectly cheesy, and just downright irresistible. That golden, flavorful crust and gooey mozzarella topping are the stuff of dreams. Good news: you can recreate this restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen, and it’s easier than you think!

Today, I’m going to show you how to make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken at home with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. We’ll also talk about tips for success, fun variations you can try, what to serve it with, and how to store and reheat leftovers so you can enjoy every last bite.

Ready to wow your family (or yourself!) with this cheesy, savory dish? Let’s dive right in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant-quality flavor at home: Save money and skip the reservation.
Simple ingredients: Nothing fancy or hard to find — everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
Juicy, tender chicken: Breading locks in moisture for the perfect bite every time.
Cheesy goodness: Parmesan + mozzarella = serious flavor magic.
Customizable: Make it lighter, spicier, or even gluten-free with a few easy swaps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: About 6–8 ounces each.
1 cup bread crumbs: Panko or regular — both work great.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that rich, nutty flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty, gooey, and delicious.
½ cup all-purpose flour: Helps the breading stick to the chicken.

Optional Extras:

Salt and black pepper (to season the flour)
1–2 eggs (for a traditional breading station)
2 tablespoons butter (for extra richness)
½ teaspoon garlic powder or Italian seasoning (for added flavor in the bread crumb mix)

Equipment You’ll Need

Shallow bowls (for dredging)
Baking sheet
Wire rack (optional, but helps with crispiness)
Skillet (if you want to pan-fry before baking)
Meat thermometer (to ensure perfect doneness)

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

If your chicken breasts are thick, butterfly them or gently pound them out to about ½ inch thickness. This helps them cook more evenly and stay tender inside without overcooking the outside.

Lightly season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.

2. Set Up Your Breading Station

Set out three shallow bowls:

Bowl 1: Add the flour (season with a pinch of salt and pepper).
Bowl 2: Beat 1–2 eggs with a splash of water.
Bowl 3: Mix the bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese together.

Tip: For extra flavor, you can add garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning to the bread crumb mix!

3. Bread the Chicken

One at a time:

Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the excess.
Dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off.
Press it firmly into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.

Set the coated chicken aside on a plate or baking sheet.

4. (Optional) Pan-Fry for Extra Crispiness

If you want a super golden crust, you can quickly sear the breaded chicken in a hot skillet with a little butter or oil for 2–3 minutes per side before baking. This step is optional but adds even more flavor and texture.

5. Bake to Perfection

Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet (use a wire rack if you have one to allow heat to circulate around the chicken for maximum crispiness).

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–18 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Add the Mozzarella Magic

About 3 minutes before the chicken is done:

Sprinkle a generous handful of shredded mozzarella over each piece.
Return to the oven just long enough for the cheese to melt and get deliciously gooey.

Tip: If you like a golden top, switch on the broiler for the last 1–2 minutes — but watch closely to avoid burning!

7. Serve and Enjoy!

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Then plate up your homemade Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken and prepare for serious applause!

Expert Tips for the Best Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts and browns better than the pre-shredded kind.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If baking multiple pieces, leave some space between them so the heat can circulate.
Pound Evenly: Even thickness = even cooking. No dry edges!
Cheese Layer: Don’t skimp on the mozzarella topping — it’s what takes this chicken over the top.

Flavor Variations to Try

Want to mix it up a little? Try these fun twists:

Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
Herb Lover’s Version: Toss chopped fresh herbs (like basil, parsley, or thyme) with the Parmesan before breading.
Buffalo Parmesan Chicken: Drizzle with buffalo sauce before topping with mozzarella for a spicy twist.
Low-Carb Version: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour.

What to Serve With Parmesan Chicken

Complete your meal with one (or several!) of these delicious sides:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery potatoes pair beautifully.
Steamed Vegetables: Keep it light with broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
Garlic Bread: For extra indulgence!
Side Salad: A fresh garden salad balances out the rich chicken.
Rice Pilaf or Pasta: Turn it into a hearty, comforting dinner.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing:
Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Reheating:
For best results, reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until warmed through and the crust crisps back up. Avoid microwaving if you can — it tends to make the breading soggy.

Freezing:
You can freeze cooked Parmesan chicken! Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 375°F until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and work great — just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Do I need to pan-fry before baking?
Nope! Baking alone works perfectly well. Pan-frying is just an optional extra step for an even crispier crust.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes. Bread the chicken and refrigerate for up to a few hours before baking. Add mozzarella just before the end of cooking.

Final Thoughts

Recreating Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken at home is easier and more rewarding than you might think. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little bit of time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table — without ever leaving your house.

Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner, a weekend gathering, or just because you’re craving something seriously delicious, this cheesy, savory chicken dish is sure to impress.

So go ahead — grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to make Parmesan Chicken magic happen. Once you taste that first crispy, cheesy bite, you’ll wonder why you ever ordered out!

Serving Size: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 400–500 (depending on cheese and bread crumb amounts)