Step 2: Prepare the Breading
- Set up a breading station: Use three shallow bowls.
- Bowl 1: All-purpose flour
- Bowl 2: Eggs beaten with milk
- Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes
- Bread the chicken:
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture.
- Press into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, ensuring an even coating.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken: Carefully place each chicken breast in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer to a baking dish: Once browned, place chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish, ready for the next step.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
- Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast generously.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Optional: Switch to broil for the last 2 minutes to get a lightly golden, crispy cheese topping.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added color and flavor.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides like garlic mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad.
Tips for the Best Parmesan Chicken
- Don’t skip pounding the chicken: This ensures even cooking and keeps the meat tender.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese: Pre-grated cheese often has anti-caking agents that affect crispiness.
- Double-breading: For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once.
- Homemade marinara elevates the dish**: A simple sauce with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of sugar works beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a restaurant-quality dish you can easily replicate at home. The combination of a golden, crispy crust, tender chicken, rich marinara, and melted mozzarella makes it an irresistible comfort meal. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe proves you don’t need to dine out to enjoy gourmet flavors.
If you want, I can also create a shortened “easy weeknight version” of this recipe that cooks entirely in one pan in under 30 minutes—still packed with that cheesy, crispy goodness.
Do you want me to do that?
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