Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a mouthwatering dish featuring crispy, breaded chicken breasts topped with a layer of melted cheese and optionally served with a rich Parmesan cream sauce. This recipe is a homemade version of the famous restaurant dish, and it delivers the same savory, cheesy goodness right in your kitchen. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this Parmesan Chicken will satisfy your cravings with its crispy texture and bold flavors.

Overview of the Recipe

This Parmesan Chicken recipe is a restaurant-quality dish made with simple ingredients. The chicken breasts are coated in a seasoned Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, seared to a golden brown, and then baked with a cheesy topping of Parmesan and provolone or mozzarella. The optional Parmesan cream sauce adds a luxurious finish to the meal, making it extra indulgent. It’s easy to prepare and takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a more formal gathering.

History and Origin

Parmesan Chicken, also known as Chicken Parmesan or Chicken Parmigiana, has its roots in Italian-American cuisine. The dish evolved from the classic Italian recipe “melanzane alla parmigiana” (eggplant Parmesan), where eggplant is breaded, fried, and topped with cheese and tomato sauce. Italian immigrants in the U.S. adapted the recipe using chicken, a more readily available protein. Over time, various restaurants and chefs have put their unique spin on this popular dish, including Longhorn Steakhouse, which created their famous Parmesan Chicken with a focus on a simple but flavorful preparation and without the traditional tomato sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided into two portions)
• 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Parmesan Cream Sauce (Optional):

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or cooking spray to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick while baking.

2. Prepare the Parmesan Coating:

In a shallow dish, mix together the breadcrumbs, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give the chicken a crispy and flavorful coating. In another dish, beat the eggs, which will help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken.

3. Coat the Chicken:

Take each chicken breast and dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dredge it in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating adheres well to the chicken. Repeat for all four chicken breasts.

4. Sear the Chicken:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, sear each chicken breast for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step helps lock in the moisture and gives the chicken an extra crispy texture, but it won’t cook the chicken fully.

5. Bake the Chicken:

Once seared, transfer the chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet. Evenly sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Parmesan cheese and the shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese over the chicken breasts. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).

6. Prepare the Parmesan Cream Sauce (Optional):

While the chicken bakes, you can prepare the Parmesan cream sauce. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and garlic powder, then season with salt and pepper. Cook the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens. This creamy sauce is optional, but it adds a rich, decadent flavor to the dish.

7. Serve:

Once the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove it from the oven. Drizzle the Parmesan cream sauce over the chicken breasts if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this crispy, cheesy, and savory dish!

Serving Suggestions

This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with Parmesan Chicken, as they complement the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a healthy and colorful contrast to the cheesy chicken.
• Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine) for a more filling meal, especially if you’re using the Parmesan cream sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is a great side to help soak up any extra sauce or juices from the chicken.

Variations of the Recipe

1. Herb-Crusted Parmesan Chicken:

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture. The herbs will add an aromatic and flavorful dimension to the dish.

2. Gluten-Free Parmesan Chicken:

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, like the cheese and seasonings, are gluten-free as well.

3. Spicy Parmesan Chicken:

If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. This will give the chicken a spicy kick without overpowering the other flavors.

4. Lemon Parmesan Chicken:

For a fresh, citrusy twist, add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the Parmesan-breadcrumb coating and serve the dish with lemon wedges for a bright and tangy contrast.

Health Benefits and Notes

1. High Protein:

Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall health. This dish provides a significant amount of protein per serving, making it a nutritious option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

2. Low Carb Option:

If you’re looking to reduce your carb intake, you can substitute traditional breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb version of this recipe. The rest of the ingredients are naturally low in carbohydrates.

3. Calcium-Rich:

The cheeses used in this recipe, particularly Parmesan and provolone, are rich in calcium, which is vital for bone health. Additionally, the cream sauce can provide more calcium if included.

4. Healthy Fats:

Olive oil, used for searing the chicken, is a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which are known to reduce bad cholesterol and promote good cardiovascular health.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?

Yes! While Parmesan and provolone (or mozzarella) are recommended for their flavor and melting properties, you can substitute with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for a different taste.

2. How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check if the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and sear the chicken ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to serve, add the cheese and bake as directed. You can also make the Parmesan cream sauce in advance and reheat it when needed.

4. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

To make this recipe dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese substitutes and coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative for the sauce. Be sure to check that all your seasonings and breadcrumbs are also dairy-free.

Conclusion

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that’s easy to make at home. With crispy, seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and an optional Parmesan cream sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it with pasta, vegetables, or bread, this recipe offers versatility and rich flavors for any occasion. Try out different variations to suit your preferences, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your kitchen!

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