Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken A Crispy Cheesy Chicken Dinner Everyone Loves

Last Updated on December 10, 2025 by Chef Josie

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is famous for its crispy golden crust, creamy parmesan topping, and juicy, tender chicken inside. It is the kind of chicken dish that feels restaurant special yet surprisingly easy to make in your own kitchen. If you love simple chicken recipes that deliver huge flavor without extra work, this version of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is about to become a family favorite.

This recipe recreates everything people adore about the restaurant version. You get perfectly seasoned chicken, a crunchy parmesan panko crust, and a rich melted cheese layer that makes every bite comforting. It works beautifully for weeknight dinners, weekend cooking, or when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. It fits beautifully with healthy dinner recipes, baked chicken recipes, and easy chicken breast recipes because you can adjust the ingredients to match your preferred level of richness.

Whether you are preparing food for a family meal, doing meal prep for the week, or looking for quick dinner ideas, this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe delivers. It is straightforward, uses pantry friendly ingredients, and offers reliable results every time. Let us go through everything you need to know to master this famous steakhouse style chicken at home.

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Why You Will Love Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

A restaurant style chicken dinner made easy

The flavors are just like the original. Juicy chicken, crisp crust, melted cheese, and simple seasonings create a dish that tastes like it took much longer than it did.

Perfect for all cooking levels

You do not need advanced kitchen skills. The steps are simple, clear, and forgiving.

Versatile enough for many meal types

You can serve this with potatoes, pasta, vegetables, salads, or grains. It works with healthy dinner meals or more indulgent sides.

Kid friendly and picky eater friendly

Crispy chicken and melted parmesan cheese make this a recipe the whole family will enjoy.

Works with many cuts of chicken

You can swap chicken breasts for boneless skinless chicken thighs, chicken tenders, or even pounded chicken breast fillets. This fits well with chicken tender recipes and boneless skinless chicken thigh recipes.

Easy to adjust for different cooking methods

You can cook it on the stovetop, finish it in the oven, or adapt it to an air fryer recipe.

Ingredients for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Chicken

Boneless skinless chicken breasts work best and create a tender base for the parmesan crust. You can also use chicken thighs if you want more moisture.

Seasonings

Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning develop background flavor and help the chicken brown beautifully.

Panko breadcrumbs

Panko creates a crisp and airy crust. You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, but panko gives a lighter texture.

Parmesan cheese

Freshly grated parmesan melts better, browns better, and creates richer flavor.

Butter or olive oil

The chicken sears better when using a mix of oil and butter. Butter gives deeper flavor, while oil prevents burning.

Mayonnaise or cream mixture

A thin layer of mayo or a mixture of sour cream and parmesan helps the crust stick and stay creamy. This is key to the signature Longhorn style texture.

Herbs

Parsley or basil adds brightness and a fresh finish.

How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Step 1 Prepare the chicken

Slice or pound the chicken breasts to ensure even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and prevents dryness.

Step 2 Season the chicken

Apply salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to both sides. This step builds the savory foundation the recipe is known for.

Step 3 Sear the chicken

Heat a skillet with butter and oil. Sear each chicken piece until golden brown. You do not need to fully cook it at this stage because it will finish in the oven.

Step 4 Make the parmesan topping

Combine mayonnaise or sour cream with grated parmesan, garlic powder, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.

Step 5 Add the panko topping

Mix panko with parmesan and melted butter to create a crispy topping.

Step 6 Assemble

Spread the parmesan mixture on the seared chicken. Add the panko topping.

Step 7 Bake

Bake until the topping is golden and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 8 Garnish and serve

Top with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Parmesan Chicken

Pound the chicken evenly

This ensures quick and even cooking. Thick spots can dry out before the center cooks.

Do not skip the sear

Searing adds flavor and improves texture. It gives the chicken the signature restaurant appearance.

Use fresh parmesan

Bagged parmesan does not melt as smoothly. Freshly grated parmesan gives a richer taste and golden color.

Toast the panko slightly

If you want extra crunch, lightly toast the panko in a skillet before adding it to the chicken.

Finish in the oven

Oven heat helps the topping crisp and ensures the chicken stays juicy.

Let the chicken rest

Resting keeps juices inside and prevents dryness.

Ways to Serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Classic steakhouse style sides

Mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, steamed broccoli, and green beans pair perfectly.

Healthy dinner meals

Serve with:
• Roasted vegetables
• Zucchini noodles
• Cauliflower mash
• Side salad

Comfort meal ideas

Serve with:
• Buttered pasta
• Cheesy orzo
• Garlic bread

For meal prep

Portion with rice, broccoli, or mixed vegetables. It reheats beautifully and stays tender.

Variations You Can Try

Spicy parmesan chicken

Add chili flakes or cayenne to the seasoning mix.

Lemon parmesan chicken

Add lemon zest to the parmesan topping and finish with fresh lemon juice.

Air fryer version

Cook seasoned chicken at 375 degrees until almost done. Add topping and air fry for two more minutes.

Thigh version

Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a richer, juicier result.

Low carb version

Use pork rind crumbs instead of panko.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator

Store for up to four days in an airtight container.

Freezer

Freeze without the topping for best results. Add topping after thawing.

Reheating

Bake or air fry to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which softens the crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts

Yes, chicken thighs stay juicy and work perfectly for this recipe.

How do I keep the crust crispy

Finish the chicken in the oven and avoid covering the dish while cooling.

Can I prepare this ahead of time

Yes. Assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

Is this recipe freezer friendly

Freeze before adding the topping for the best results.

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