Longhorn-Style Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce

Recreate a Restaurant Classic: The Ultimate Longhorn-Style Parmesan Crusted Chicken

There’s a reason some restaurant dishes become legendary. That satisfying sizzle, the intoxicating aroma, and a taste that transports you to a culinary happy place. For many, the Parmesan Crusted Chicken at Longhorn Steakhouse is one such icon. Imagine a perfectly cooked chicken breast, enveloped in a golden, crispy Parmesan crust, and then generously drizzled with a rich, savory garlic cream sauce. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that keeps diners coming back for more.

But what if you could recreate that magic in your own kitchen? What if you could bring that restaurant-quality meal to your home, without the wait or the bill? That’s precisely what we’re going to do today! This isn’t just a recipe; it’s your foolproof guide to mastering a truly spot-on Longhorn-Style Parmesan Crusted Chicken. We’ll dive into every detail, ensuring you achieve that signature crispy, cheesy crust, incredibly juicy chicken, and a decadent garlic cream sauce that rivals the original. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a homemade Longhorn recipe that tastes like it came straight from their kitchen!

Why This Recipe Works (And Why You’ll Love It!)

This isn’t just another chicken dinner; it’s an experience. Here’s why our copycat parmesan crusted chicken recipe stands out and why it’s destined to become a new family favorite:

• Perfectly Crispy Crust: We’ll share the secrets to a crunchy coating that adheres beautifully and stays crisp, making this the best parmesan crusted chicken you’ll ever make at home.
• Incredibly Juicy Chicken: Our technique, starting with a buttermilk marinated chicken, ensures every bite of the tender and juicy chicken breast is flavorful and moist, never dry.
• Velvety Cream Sauce: A rich, savory garlic cream sauce for chicken that adds an unparalleled layer of indulgence, perfectly complementing the crispy exterior. This creamy parmesan chicken is pure comfort!
• Simple & Accessible: Made with straightforward ingredients and clear, easy-to-follow steps, this restaurant recipe at home guarantees success, even for novice cooks.
• Better Than Takeout: Forget expensive delivery! Impress your family with a gourmet meal that’s ready in under an hour, proving that an easy weeknight chicken dinner can also be extraordinary.

Unpacking the Ingredients

Great dishes begin with great ingredients. Understanding their role is key to mastering this Longhorn Steakhouse copycat recipe.

For the Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: We recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts. The critical step here is to pound them to an even ½-inch thickness. This ensures consistent cooking, preventing one part from drying out while another is still raw.
• Buttermilk: The unsung hero for a tender and juicy chicken breast! Buttermilk’s mild acidity works wonders as a tenderizer, breaking down tough muscle fibers. If you don’t have buttermilk, don’t worry! You can easily make a DIY substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a cup of regular milk, letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: While regular breadcrumbs work, panko breadcrumbs are our secret weapon for that extra-crispy, light, and airy crust. Their larger, flakier texture absorbs less oil and creates a superior crunch that’s hard to beat for this crispy parmesan chicken recipe.
• Parmesan Cheese: For the absolute best flavor and melt, always use freshly grated Parmesan from a block. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder melting and dilute flavor. A good quality Parmigiano-Reggiano makes all the difference for the best parmesan cheese for crusting.
• Seasonings: Our blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning is carefully chosen to create the savory, aromatic foundation that gives this chicken its signature flavor profile.

For the Garlic Cream Sauce & Topping

• Butter, Garlic, and Flour: These three form the classic roux base for our sauce. Sautéed garlic adds incredible depth, while the butter and flour combine to create a thickening agent that ensures a smooth, luscious texture.
• Heavy Cream & Chicken Broth: This dynamic duo creates a rich yet perfectly pourable sauce. The heavy cream provides luxurious body and mouthfeel, while the chicken broth balances the richness and adds a savory dimension. For a slightly lighter alternative without sacrificing too much richness, you can use half-and-half.
• Cheeses (Parmesan & Mozzarella): Parmesan is added directly to the sauce for an intensely savory, umami-rich flavor, contributing to the creamy parmesan chicken experience. A blend of shredded mozzarella and more Parmesan is then melted on top of the cooked chicken, creating that irresistible bubbly, golden-brown finish – a delicious chicken with mozzarella topping!

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfection

Let’s turn these delicious ingredients into an unforgettable Longhorn-Style Parmesan Crusted Chicken!

Step 1: Prep & Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or a heavy rolling pin, gently pound them to an even ½-inch thickness. This ensures uniform cooking and a more tender result. Once pounded, place the chicken in a bowl or a resealable bag and pour the buttermilk over them. Ensure all chicken pieces are coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator, but for truly tender and juicy chicken breast, aim for 2-4 hours, or even overnight if time allows. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful your chicken will be.

Step 2: Create the Parmesan Breading

In a shallow dish (a pie plate or a wide, shallow bowl works perfectly), combine the panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork or whisk to thoroughly mix all the ingredients together. This ensures every single piece of panko is coated with the delicious blend, giving you an even and flavorful crust on your chicken.

Step 3: Breading and Pan-Frying

Remove a chicken breast from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Place it into the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing firmly on both sides and along the edges to ensure the breading adheres properly. This pressing technique is crucial for how to keep breading on chicken during cooking. Repeat for all chicken pieces. Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works beautifully) over medium-high heat. Add a mix of olive oil and a pat of butter (the butter aids in browning and flavor). Once hot and the butter is melted, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the pan, being mindful not to crowd the pan. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The pan-fried chicken breast should have a beautiful, crispy parmesan chicken recipe crust. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside on a wire rack while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Velvety Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same skillet (drain off most of the residual oil, leaving just a tablespoon or two and any browned bits), melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy parmesan chicken sauce is the heart of the dish!

Step 5: The Final Melt

Preheat your broiler to high. Place the cooked chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Spoon a generous amount of the warm garlic cream sauce over each piece of chicken. Top each with a mixture of shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese. Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, watching closely! The cheese will melt, become bubbly, and turn a beautiful golden brown. The broiler works fast, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Once the chicken with mozzarella topping is perfectly golden, remove from the oven and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for a Flawless Finish

Achieving restaurant-quality results at home is all about the details. Here are some expert tips for your Longhorn-Style Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

• Don’t Crowd the Pan: When pan-frying, cook your chicken in batches if necessary. Crowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, leading to steamed chicken rather than beautifully crispy chicken. Air circulation is key for that perfect crust!
• Use a Meat Thermometer: The most reliable way to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe 165°F (74°C) without overcooking it is with a meat thermometer. This guarantees a tender and juicy chicken breast every time, avoiding dry, tough chicken.
• Freshly Grated Cheese is a Must: Reiterate why pre-shredded cheese (often coated with anti-caking agents like cellulose) should be avoided. For the best flavor, superior melt, and creaminess in your sauce and topping, always grate your Parmesan and mozzarella fresh from the block. This truly makes a difference for the best parmesan cheese for crusting.
• Sauce Consistency: If your garlic cream sauce is too thin, simply simmer it for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow it to reduce and thicken. If it becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of warm chicken broth or heavy cream until it reaches your desired consistency.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Your Chicken

Elevate your Longhorn-Style Parmesan Crusted Chicken into a complete, gourmet meal with these delicious and complementary side dish suggestions. Think about balance – something to soak up that incredible sauce, and something fresh to cut through the richness.

• Starches: Classic choices like creamy garlic mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles are ideal for soaking up every drop of that luscious garlic cream sauce. A simple risotto or even some crusty artisan bread would also be fantastic.
• Vegetables: Light and fresh vegetables offer a perfect counterpoint. Steamed asparagus with a squeeze of lemon, roasted broccoli florets with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or sautéed green beans with toasted almonds provide color, texture, and vital nutrients.
• Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad can brighten the entire meal. A simple Caesar salad with a tangy dressing or a light arugula salad tossed with a bright vinaigrette helps to balance the richness of the creamy parmesan chicken.

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

Enjoying your delicious Longhorn-Style Parmesan Crusted Chicken doesn’t have to stop after the first meal. Here’s how to manage leftovers and even get a head start!

• Storing Leftovers: To maintain quality and safety, store the cooked chicken and the garlic cream sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. This prevents the crispy crust from becoming soggy in the sauce.
• The Best Way to Reheat: To revive that crispy crust, reheating the chicken in the oven or an air fryer is your best bet. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy. Avoid the microwave for the chicken itself, as it will make the breading soggy. The sauce, however, can be gently reheated on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or carefully in the microwave.
• Make-Ahead: You can definitely do some prep in advance! The garlic cream sauce can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Gently reheat it, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to adjust consistency. The chicken can also be pounded and breaded ahead of time; arrange the breaded chicken on a plate, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before pan-frying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this the same as Chicken Parmesan?

No, this Longhorn-Style Parmesan Crusted Chicken is distinct from classic Chicken Parmesan. The primary difference lies in the sauce. Traditional Chicken Parmesan features a robust, tomato-based marinara sauce and often includes a thicker layer of melted mozzarella. The Longhorn-style version, on the other hand, is characterized by its rich, savory, and velvety garlic cream sauce, making it a unique and indulgent dish.

Why is my breading falling off?

There are a few common culprits when breading separates from chicken. First, ensure your chicken breasts are patted very dry before marinating; excess moisture prevents breading from adhering. Second, make sure you press the panko-Parmesan mixture firmly onto the chicken on all sides. Finally, avoid flipping the chicken too often in the pan. Let it cook undisturbed until a good crust has formed on one side before flipping.

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer or oven?

Yes, absolutely! While pan-frying delivers the ultimate crisp, you can achieve great results in an air fryer or oven.

• For Baking: Place breaded chicken on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked to 165°F (74°C).
• For Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Spray the chicken lightly with oil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.

Finish with the sauce and broil as instructed for the perfect cheesy topping.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted for a gluten-free diet. Simply substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs, and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for making the roux in the garlic cream sauce.

Longhorn-Style Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Now that you have all the insider tips and tricks, you’re ready to conquer this restaurant favorite at home. Here is the complete, printable recipe for the perfect Longhorn-Style Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Get ready to savor every crispy, creamy, and utterly delicious bite!

« `

For more daily recipes and tips, follow us on Facebook!
Click here to join our community!