Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe

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Introduction

Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Chicken is a beloved dish, known for its crispy, golden-brown exterior and rich, cheesy topping. This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a mouthwatering meal. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to recreate this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying experience with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating your family to something special, this Parmesan Chicken is sure to impress.

Overview of the Recipe

This Parmesan Chicken recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a crispy Parmesan and breadcrumb coating, all topped with a melty blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The dish is then baked to perfection, creating a satisfying balance of textures and flavors. The addition of Italian seasoning and garlic enhances the overall taste, making it a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also full of flavor.

History and Origin

While Longhorn Steakhouse is primarily known for its steaks, its Parmesan Chicken has become a standout on the menu, appealing to those who crave something different. The recipe is inspired by classic Italian flavors, particularly Chicken Parmesan, a dish that originated in Italy but became popular in America. Over time, variations of this dish have emerged, with restaurants like Longhorn Steakhouse adding their own twist. This recipe captures the essence of the original, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: 4 pieces
    • The main protein in the dish, providing a tender and juicy base.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, divided
    • Adds a rich and nutty flavor to the chicken coating and topping.
  • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup
    • Melted over the chicken for a creamy and cheesy finish.
  • Bread Crumbs: 1 cup
    • Used to create a crispy coating for the chicken.
  • All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup
    • Helps the egg mixture adhere to the chicken.

Additional Ingredients:

  • Large Eggs: 2
    • Beaten with milk to create a binding agent for the bread crumb coating.
  • Milk: 1/4 cup
    • Combined with eggs for a smooth coating mixture.
  • Minced Garlic: 2 cloves
    • Mixed with cheese to add a burst of flavor.
  • Dried Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
    • Adds an aromatic herb blend to the bread crumb mixture.
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
    • Seasons the chicken and enhances the overall flavor.
  • Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
    • Adds a subtle kick to the dish.
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
    • Used for cooking the chicken to golden perfection.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. This step ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Mixture

  • In a shallow dish, combine the bread crumbs, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  • Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. This mixture will form the crispy, flavorful coating for the chicken.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

  • In another shallow dish, beat the eggs together with the milk.
  • This egg mixture will help the bread crumbs adhere to the chicken breasts, ensuring a uniform coating.

Step 4: Prepare the Flour Coating

  • Place the all-purpose flour in a third shallow dish.
  • This will be the first step in coating the chicken, helping the egg mixture stick to the surface.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken with Flour

  • Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
  • This ensures a light, even coating that will hold the egg mixture, preparing the chicken for the next step.

Step 6: Dip the Chicken in the Egg Mixture

  • Dip the floured chicken breasts into the egg mixture, coating them completely.
  • Then, press the chicken into the bread crumb mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.

Step 7: Sear the Chicken

  • In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
  • This will give the chicken a crispy exterior while locking in the juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

Step 8: Transfer to Baking Dish

  • Transfer the browned chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish.
  • This dish will go into the oven for finishing, allowing the chicken to cook through completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Cheese Topping

  • In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese with the shredded mozzarella cheese and minced garlic.
  • This cheesy mixture will melt over the chicken, adding a delicious topping.

Step 10: Add the Cheese Topping

  • Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the baking dish.
  • Make sure each piece is generously covered for the best flavor. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan will create a rich, gooey topping.

Step 11: Bake the Chicken

  • Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.

Step 12: Let the Chicken Rest

  • Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  • This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful chicken.

Serving

Once the chicken has rested, it’s ready to serve. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of garlic bread or a light pasta dish, like spaghetti with marinara sauce.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

To complement the rich flavors of the Parmesan Chicken, consider serving it with a crisp, refreshing side dish. A Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette would be perfect. For a starchier side, creamy mashed potatoes or a wild rice pilaf would balance the meal nicely. Additionally, a sparkling water with lemon or a non-alcoholic apple cider could make a great beverage pairing, cutting through the richness of the dish.

Variations of the Recipe

  1. Spicy Parmesan Chicken:
    • Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
    • Alternatively, drizzle some hot sauce over the chicken before adding the cheese topping.
  2. Herb-Crusted Parmesan Chicken:
    • Increase the amount of Italian seasoning and add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture.
    • This adds an extra layer of flavor, making the dish even more aromatic.
  3. Gluten-Free Parmesan Chicken:
    • Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
    • This variation is perfect for those with gluten sensitivities, without compromising on taste or texture.
  4. Low-Carb Parmesan Chicken:
    • Substitute the bread crumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour to create a low-carb version of the dish.
    • This option is great for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet.

Health Benefits

This Parmesan Chicken dish, while indulgent, can also be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair. Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses provide calcium, which is important for bone health. By baking the chicken instead of frying, you reduce the amount of oil used, making the dish lower in fat and calories.

For a healthier twist, consider serving the chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a whole grain like quinoa or brown rice. You can also use part-skim mozzarella to reduce the fat content while still enjoying a cheesy topping.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the chicken up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add the cheese topping and bake as directed.
  • Storage: Leftover Parmesan Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the crispy texture.
  • Freezing: This dish can be frozen before baking. Simply prepare the chicken and place it in a freezer-safe dish without the cheese topping. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator, add the cheese, and bake as directed.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese? A: Pre-shredded cheese can be used, but freshly grated cheese often melts better and has a more robust flavor.

Q: How can I tell if the chicken is cooked through? A: The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: To make a dairy-free version, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well. The rest of the recipe can remain the same.

Q: What can I do with leftover Parmesan Chicken? A: Leftovers can be sliced and added to a salad, used in a sandwich, or even diced and tossed with pasta for a quick meal.

Conclusion

Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that you can easily make at home. With its crispy coating, juicy chicken, and rich cheese topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is versatile, satisfying, and sure to impress. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and savor the flavors of this restaurant classic right in your own kitchen.

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