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My go-to dish is now this copycat Parmesan Chicken just like at Longhorn Steakhouse. There's something magical about biting into that cheese-filled crunchy coating while the chicken inside stays perfectly moist. It brings all the restaurant vibes straight to your kitchen table without the hefty bill.
Unlocking Crispy Perfection
The real secret to this dish is nailing that gorgeous golden exterior while making sure the chicken doesn't dry out. When you mix fresh Parmesan with Italian herbs, you get this amazing flavor bomb that'll make everyone think you spent years in culinary school. And trust me, it's way easier than it looks.
What You'll Need
- Chicken Breasts: Grab 4 boneless, skinless ones and flatten them so they cook evenly.
- Parmesan Cheese: Get 1/2 cup freshly grated for the real deal taste.
- Bread Crumbs: You'll want 1 cup with herbs and spices already mixed in.
- Eggs: Whisk up 2 large ones with some milk for the perfect sticky layer.
- Flour: Have 1/2 cup ready for the first coating step.
- Mozzarella: Shred 1 cup for that stretchy cheese pull everyone loves.
- Garlic: Finely chop 2 cloves for that punch of flavor.
- Olive Oil: Just 2 tablespoons will give you that beautiful sear.
Step-by-Step Magic
- Prep Your Space
- Get your oven going at 375°F and give your baking dish a light coat of oil.
- Assemble Your Assembly Line
- Put your flour, beaten eggs, and cheesy bread crumb mix in three separate containers.
- Dress Up Your Chicken
- Roll each piece in flour, dunk in egg mixture, then press into the bread crumbs.
- Get That Color
- Cook each chicken piece in a hot pan until nice and golden, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Cheese It Up
- Sprinkle your mix of mozzarella, Parmesan, and chopped garlic on top.
- Bake To Bubbling
- Pop it in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese gets all melty and the chicken hits 165°F.
Insider Tips
Never skimp on the Parmesan - grab a block and grate it yourself for way better flavor. Make sure your chicken pieces are all the same thickness so they finish cooking at the same time. If you notice the cheese getting too dark, just cover it loosely with foil. Let everything rest for a few minutes after cooking so the juices don't run out when you cut in.
What Goes With It
We love this chicken next to a big scoop of garlicky mashed potatoes and a fresh Caesar salad. Grab some good bread too - you'll want it for soaking up all that melted cheese that escapes onto the plate! Pour yourself a cold glass of Pinot Grigio to make dinner feel extra fancy.
Storing Leftovers
You can keep this chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days if you seal it well. When you want to eat it again, skip the microwave and warm it in the oven to bring back that crispiness. If you're planning ahead, you can freeze single portions and just thaw them in the fridge overnight before heating.
Mix It Up
Switch to chicken thighs if you want something even juicier, or tuck some cooked spinach under the cheese layer for a new twist. Need some kick? Throw some red pepper flakes into your bread crumb mix or swap in some Pepper Jack cheese on top.
Common Questions
Need to make it ahead? You can get everything ready up to the baking step and keep it in the fridge for a day. For the crunchiest coating, pat your chicken completely dry and make sure your pan is really hot before adding the chicken. And while the pre-shredded stuff works in a pinch, cheese you grate yourself melts way better and tastes so much richer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why start with flour before using eggs?
- The flour gives the egg a surface to stick to, ensuring the breadcrumbs stay on the chicken.
- → What’s the purpose of frying before baking?
- It makes the outside crispy while sealing the moisture inside. Then baking finishes cooking it through.
- → Are Italian breadcrumbs an option?
- Absolutely! They add extra seasoning that works perfectly with this dish.
- → How can I tell when it’s fully cooked?
- It’s done when the internal temperature hits 165°F, and the middle is no longer pink.
- → What sides go well with this meal?
- Pair it with steamed veggies or creamy mashed potatoes to keep things simple and tasty.