LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Copycat Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving the rich flavors and crispy, cheesy perfection of a restaurant meal at home, then this LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Copycat recipe is about to become your new best friend. This dish beautifully captures the essence of that iconic restaurant entrée with juicy, tender chicken breasts crusted in a golden Parmesan-panko coating, all smothered in a luscious, creamy garlic sauce topped with bubbly mozzarella. It’s comfort food elevated, perfect for impressing family or indulging in a cozy night in, and I promise once you try this copycat recipe, you’ll wonder why you ever ordered it anywhere else.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things delightfully simple, calling for ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry and fridge. Each component plays an essential role in securing the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and visual appeal—from the savory Parmesan to the gentle kick of paprika, and the creamy sauce that ties it all together beautifully.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender foundation for this dish, easy to cook evenly and juicy when done right.
• All-purpose flour: Adds a light base layer helping the coating stick perfectly to the chicken.
• Garlic powder: Infuses the flour mixture with gentle aromatic flavor that pairs wonderfully with creamy sauce.
• Onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the coating.
• Paprika: Brings a mild earthiness and beautiful color to the breading.
• Salt and black pepper: The essential duo for seasoning to enhance every bite.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers irresistible umami and crispy texture in the crust.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Light and crunchy, ensuring a golden, crispy coating.
• Eggs: Acts as a binder to hold the breading together on the chicken.
• Butter and olive oil: The perfect fat combo for browning chicken to crispy perfection without burning.
• Heavy cream: Creates the luscious, dreamy base for the garlic sauce.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and balances the richness of the cream sauce.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into the sauce providing gooey, melty goodness on top.
• Fresh parsley: A bright, fresh garnish that adds color and a hint of herbaceousness.

How to Make LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Copycat

Step 1: Prepare the Coating Mixtures

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when the chicken needs to go in. In a shallow bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful dry base. Separately, combine the grated Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs for the crispy, cheesy crust. These two simple mixtures form the heart of our delicious coating.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken breast and first dredge it in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs to help the final coating stick. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the Parmesan-panko mixture, making sure it’s fully covered in that beautiful cheesy breadcrumb crust. This method ensures a crunchy, flavorful exterior every time.

Step 3: Sear Until Golden

Heat butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the fats are hot and shimmering, add the coated chicken. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until you achieve a gorgeous golden-brown crust. This step seals in the juices and develops that slightly crispy texture that’s so addictive.

Step 4: Bake to Finish Cooking

After searing, transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and slide them into the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, making sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This allows the chicken to cook fully while maintaining moistness inside and preserving that crunchy coating on the outside.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

While the chicken finishes baking, use the same skillet to create the sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine and scraping up any browned bits left behind from searing the chicken—that’s where the magic flavor lives. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella until melted and silky smooth. This creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly complements the crispy chicken.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once the chicken is cooked through, plate the pieces and generously drizzle the creamy mozzarella garlic sauce over the top. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor. You’re now ready to enjoy a homemade version of the beloved LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Copycat that tastes just as indulgent and special as the original!

How to Serve LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Copycat

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is essential to elevate this dish. It adds a vibrant green color that contrasts beautifully with the golden crust and rich sauce, plus a fresh subtle brightness to each bite. For extra flair, you could also grate some additional Parmesan on top right before serving.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs exceptionally well with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic mashed cauliflower for a low-carb alternative. Steamed or roasted green beans, sautéed asparagus, or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette also complement the richness and add freshness to the plate. Choose sides that balance heartiness with brightness for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve each chicken breast sliced on a warm platter, drizzled with sauce and garnished with parsley sprigs. You can also arrange the chicken alongside colorful roasted vegetables for a rustic yet elegant presentation. Or try placing the chicken atop a bed of creamy risotto or buttery pasta tossed with garlic and olive oil to soak up every bit of that decadent sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Copycat keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to store the chicken separately from the sauce to maintain the crispiness of the coating. Reheat just before serving to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken breasts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 2 months. For the best results, freeze the sauce separately, preferably in small portion containers. This way, you can thaw each component individually and avoid soggy chicken when reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to help crisp the crust again while heating through. Warm the sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent separating. Pour the sauce over the chicken right before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more juiciness and slightly richer flavor. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary since thighs are thicker and have more fat, so check for doneness carefully.

Is there a way to make the coating gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and swap panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Just ensure your Parmesan cheese is also gluten-free.

Can I prepare any steps in advance?

You can definitely prepare the coatings and dredge the chicken up to a day ahead, then keep it covered in the fridge. The creamy sauce is best made fresh but can be reheated gently if needed.

What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?

Whole milk mixed with a bit of butter can be used as a substitute, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and thick. Coconut cream is also an option for a dairy-free twist, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep. Keep the chicken and sauce separate, and add fresh garnishes and reheat just before eating to retain the crispy texture and fresh flavors.

Final Thoughts

This LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Copycat recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings restaurant-quality flavor and textures right into your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s hard to beat the crispy coating mixed with that creamy, cheesy sauce. Give it a try and enjoy one of your new favorite homemade comfort foods—you won’t be disappointed!

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