Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

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Introduction: Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a popular dish that combines the juicy tenderness of chicken with a crispy, cheesy crust. This homemade version allows you to recreate the restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen, providing a flavorful and satisfying meal that will impress family and friends. With its golden-brown crust and gooey, melted cheese, this Parmesan chicken is perfect for any occasion. Follow this detailed recipe to enjoy a delicious, comforting meal at home.

Overview of the Recipe: This Longhorn Steakhouse-inspired Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe features boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are breaded, pan-fried, and then baked to perfection with a topping of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. The result is a tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, flavorful crust and a rich, cheesy topping. This dish is easy to make and requires minimal prep time, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

History and Origin: While Parmesan-crusted chicken is not unique to Longhorn Steakhouse, the restaurant’s version has become particularly popular due to its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The concept of breading and frying meat, particularly chicken, has been a part of Italian cuisine for centuries, often paired with a tomato-based sauce in dishes like Chicken Parmesan. This version, without the sauce, focuses on the crispiness and cheesiness, making it a favorite in American restaurants and homes alike.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring that the entire surface is coated to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Breading Station:
    • Set up three shallow dishes for breading the chicken.
      • In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour.
      • In the second dish, beat the eggs with 1/4 cup of milk until smooth.
      • In the third dish, combine the bread crumbs, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  3. Bread the Chicken:
    • Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the flour, making sure to coat it evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
    • Dip the floured chicken breast into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
    • Press the chicken breast into the bread crumb mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Repeat with all chicken breasts.
  4. Pan-Fry the Chicken:
    • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
    • Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet.
    • Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches.
  5. 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. Set aside.
  6. Bake the Chicken:
    • Transfer the browned chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
    • Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
  7. Finish in the Oven:
    • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot, and enjoy the delicious combination of crispy crust and melted cheese.

Serving: This Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with various sides. It’s perfect as a main course for dinner and pairs well with vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad. The crispy, cheesy topping complements a wide range of flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser at any table.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions:

  • Sides: Serve this dish with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light Caesar salad for a well-rounded meal.
  • Pasta: Pair with a side of pasta tossed in a light marinara or Alfredo sauce for an Italian-inspired dinner.
  • Bread: Add a side of garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up any extra cheese or juices from the chicken.

Variations of the Recipe:

  • Herb-Crusted Chicken: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil to the bread crumb mixture for a more aromatic crust.
  • Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Mix some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the bread crumb mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses like Asiago or Romano in place of or alongside the Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Health Benefits Notes: This recipe is high in protein due to the chicken breast, and the use of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese adds calcium. While it’s a rich dish, you can make it healthier by using whole wheat bread crumbs and reducing the amount of cheese if desired. Opting for a side of steamed vegetables can also balance out the meal with additional nutrients.

FAQs:

  1. Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?
    • Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. The cooking time may vary slightly, so use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
    • Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
  3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    • Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour and bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Ensure that the seasoning and cheese you use are also gluten-free.
  4. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
    • If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a well-aged cheddar for a different flavor.

Conclusion: Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delicious, comforting dish that combines the best of tender chicken and a crispy, cheesy topping. This recipe allows you to recreate the restaurant’s famous dish in your own kitchen, with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken is sure to be a hit. Experiment with the variations to make it your own, and enjoy the rich, satisfying flavors of this classic dish.

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