Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe

If you’ve ever been to Longhorn Steakhouse, you know how incredibly delicious their Parmesan Crusted Chicken is. It’s a perfect blend of juicy chicken, crispy breadcrumbs, rich Parmesan cheese, and mouth-watering seasonings that make it a favorite among steakhouse lovers. But what if I told you that you could recreate this restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen? This guide will walk you through every detail of making this famous Parmesan chicken from scratch. So, let’s get started and transform your dinner table with this irresistible recipe!

What is Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken?

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a juicy, grilled chicken breast that’s topped with a creamy ranch sauce, crispy breadcrumbs, and a layer of melted Parmesan cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of savory chicken and rich cheese topping makes it a family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds. Best of all, it’s relatively simple to make at home with ingredients that are easy to find.

Ingredients List for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

To recreate the magic of Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 1 cup of shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup of ranch dressing
• 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon of paprika
• ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon of salt
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• ¼ cup of all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 1 large egg (for coating)

Substitutions and Variations

While this recipe is inspired by the classic Longhorn Steakhouse version, there are plenty of ways you can customize it to suit your preferences. For instance, if you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work just fine. You can also swap out the provolone or mozzarella for cheddar if you prefer a sharper cheese flavor. If you’re watching your carbs, you can skip the breading altogether and just coat the chicken with the Parmesan and cheese mixture. Additionally, if you don’t have ranch dressing, a mix of mayonnaise and sour cream with a little garlic and dill can work as a tasty substitute.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken at home involves a few key steps: seasoning the chicken, cooking it to perfection, and preparing the delicious Parmesan crust. Follow these detailed instructions, and you’ll have restaurant-quality chicken ready to serve.

How to Cook Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven – Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure your chicken cooks evenly without drying out.
2. Prepare the chicken – Take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika. This seasoning blend will give your chicken that robust flavor base reminiscent of the Longhorn version.
3. Dredge the chicken – In a shallow dish, place the flour, and in another, beat the egg. Coat each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off the excess, and then dip it into the beaten egg. This will help the breadcrumb coating adhere to the chicken.
4. Prepare the breadcrumb topping – In a bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. The butter helps the breadcrumbs turn golden and crisp when baked.
5. Cook the chicken – Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown but not fully cooked through. This step ensures the chicken gets a nice crust before it’s baked.
6. Make the Parmesan crust – After searing, brush each chicken breast generously with ranch dressing. Sprinkle the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture over the top of the chicken, pressing it down slightly to adhere.
7. Bake the chicken – Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The Parmesan crust should be golden and bubbly.
8. Add the cheese – In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese over the top of the chicken. Let it melt and turn slightly golden.
9. Let it rest – Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the chicken, making it even more tender and flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Parmesan Crusted Chicken may seem straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some tips to avoid them:

• Not pounding the chicken to an even thickness – If your chicken breasts are of uneven thickness, some parts will cook faster than others, leading to dry or undercooked spots. To avoid this, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken – Chicken breasts can dry out quickly if overcooked. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once you reach that temperature, immediately remove the chicken from the oven.
• Skipping the searing step – Searing the chicken before baking helps develop a crispy crust and adds depth of flavor. Don’t skip this important step!
• Forgetting to let the chicken rest – After cooking, let your chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle and results in a more moist and tender bite.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once you’ve cooked your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken to perfection, it’s time to think about how to serve and present it. The way you plate your dish can make a huge difference, especially if you’re serving it for a special occasion. Here are some ideas:

• Slice the chicken before serving – For a more elegant presentation, slice the chicken breasts diagonally and fan them out on the plate. This not only looks attractive but also makes it easier for your guests to eat.
• Pair with sides – This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with garlic bread or roasted potatoes for a complete steakhouse experience.
• Drizzle with extra ranch dressing – For an added layer of flavor, drizzle a little extra ranch dressing or a balsamic glaze over the chicken just before serving.

Presentation Ideas for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

When it comes to presentation, a little effort can go a long way. Here are some ways to elevate the look of your Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

• Garnish with fresh herbs – Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top of the chicken for a pop of color and freshness.
• Use a colorful plate – A white or neutral-colored plate allows the golden crust of the chicken to stand out, while serving the chicken on a wooden cutting board can give it a rustic, steakhouse feel.
• Add roasted veggies – Place the chicken on a bed of roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts to add a vibrant, healthy component to your meal.

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe Tips

Here are a few final tips to ensure your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken turns out perfect every time:

• Use fresh Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts and browns better than the pre-packaged kind. It’s worth the extra effort!
• Don’t rush the sear – Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This will help you get that golden crust without sticking.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste – Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preference. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the point of adding the breadcrumb topping. Store it in the refrigerator, and then bake when ready to serve.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but they may require a longer cooking time to reach the proper internal temperature.
3. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the crispiness of the Parmesan crust.
4. Can I freeze Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
   Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Assemble the chicken with the crust, freeze, and then bake directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

Recreating Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken at home is a delightful way to enjoy restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your own kitchen. This recipe is sure to impress family and friends, and with these detailed steps and tips, you’ll have no trouble making this cheesy, crispy, and juicy dish. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that rivals any steakhouse offering. So, the next time you’re craving a comforting, savory meal, try this Parmesan Chicken recipe—you won’t be disappointed!

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