As the sun set, the smell of sizzling chicken filled the air, bringing to mind the famous Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe. This dish, a crowd-favorite at Longhorn Steakhouse, combines tender chicken, creamy ranch sauce, and a perfectly crispy parmesan crust. Now, I’m thrilled to share how to recreate this irresistible recipe right in your own kitchen.
This dish is perfect for dinner parties or a quick meal. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to impress.
Key Takeaways
- Recreate the popular Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home
- Tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in Italian dressing for maximum flavor
- Topped with a creamy ranch spread and a crunchy parmesan breadcrumb topping
- Ready in just over 30 minutes for a quick and impressive dinner
- Customizable with your favorite spices and herbs for a personalized touch
Introduction to Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a hit for its amazing taste and simple making. You can make this top-notch meal at home. This lets you enjoy the same delicious, crunchy chicken found at Longhorn Steakhouse.
What makes this dish popular?
The dish’s fame comes from its tender chicken and crunchy Parmesan crust. It’s marinated in Italian dressing for extra flavor. The panko and Parmesan crust makes it stand out from other baked chicken breast recipes.
Key ingredients overview
The dish centers on the crunchy parmesan coating and chicken breasts. It uses boneless, skinless chicken marinated in Italian dressing. The coating is a mix of Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and seasonings for a great taste and texture.
“Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a standout dish that combines the best of both worlds – the tender, juicy chicken and the irresistible crunch of the Parmesan coating.”
This dish is a hit at home and at Longhorn Steakhouse. It’s easy to make in just 35 minutes, making it a favorite for many.
Benefits of Preparing Your Own Meal
Preparing the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home has many benefits. It’s not only cheaper but also healthier than eating out.
Cost-effectiveness
Making this dish at home saves a lot of money. The ingredients are easy to find and cheap. This way, you can enjoy a tasty, quality meal without spending a lot.
Healthier Alternatives to Restaurant Food
- When you cook the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home, you control what goes into it. This lets you make it fit your diet and taste.
- Restaurant food often has more salt, unhealthy fats, and additives. Cooking at home means you can avoid these and use fresh, healthy ingredients.
- With homemade chicken recipes like this, you can choose how much to eat. This helps you meet your healthy dinner options goals.
By cooking at home, you save money and make healthier choices. The Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a great way to enjoy a tasty, nutritious dinner while cooking at home.
Ingredients for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Making the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken needs a mix of key ingredients. At its core are the main stars – boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These tender chicken pieces, about 1/2-inch thick, are ready for the tasty flavors to come.
Essential Ingredients You Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast cutlets
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing, for marinating
- 1/2 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup buttermilk ranch dressing
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Optional Ingredients for Customization
To make the parmesan crusted chicken tenders or cheesy coated chicken even better, you can add more ingredients. Some great choices include:
- Different cheese varieties, such as Swiss or mozzarella
- Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for the marinade or topping
- Spices like paprika, cayenne, or black pepper to add a kick of flavor
Together, these ingredients create a dish with perfect balance of flavors. This makes the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken truly special.
Preparation Steps
Get ready to enjoy the tasty flavors of Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This dish starts with marinating the chicken in zesty Italian dressing for 2-4 hours. This lets the flavors soak in deeply. Then, pound the chicken breasts to make them even, so they cook well and fast.
Getting Everything Ready
Before cooking, collect all the ingredients. You’ll need chicken, Italian dressing, shredded Italian cheese blend, ranch dressing, butter, panko breadcrumbs, garlic salt, and dried parsley flakes. Make the ranch spread and parmesan topping ahead of time, so they’re ready when needed.
Step-by-Step Preparation Process
- Marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for 2-4 hours, or up to overnight, to infuse it with flavor.
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, ensuring they cook evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix together the shredded Italian cheese blend, panko breadcrumbs, garlic salt, and dried parsley flakes to create the parmesan topping.
- In another bowl, combine the ranch dressing and melted butter to make the ranch spread.
With everything prepped, you’re set to start cooking. This will bring this delicious dish to life.
Cooking Instructions
Get ready to enjoy the perfect crispy baked chicken with this Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe. Let’s dive into the cooking instructions to ensure your dish turns out flawless.
Setting the Oven Temperature
Preheat your oven’s broiler to a high temperature of 500°F (260°C). Place the oven rack at the top for optimal cooking. This high heat will help the toppings brown and create a delightful crispy texture on your oven-baked chicken recipes.
Cooking Time and Tips for Doneness
The total cooking time for this dish is about 50 minutes. This includes a 20-minute prep time and a 30-minute cook time. To ensure your chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This safe temperature standard will guarantee your crispy baked chicken is fully cooked and ready to enjoy.
Remember, the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Keep a close eye on your dish during the broiling process, as the toppings can brown quickly. Adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve the perfect level of doneness and crispiness.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 50 minutes |
“The Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a game-changer! The combination of the tender, juicy chicken and the crispy, flavorful topping is simply irresistible.”
Flavor Enhancements
Make your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken even better with a few easy steps. Start by seasoning the seasoned chicken breast with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and lemon zest. This mix of spices and herbs will make your chicken taste amazing.
Suggested Spices and Herbs
- Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth to the dish.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and rosemary for an authentic Italian flair.
- Fresh basil or parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on top for a burst of freshness.
- Lemon zest: Brightens the flavors and adds a subtle citrus note.
Pairing Options with Sauces
Try different sauces to enhance your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. A classic marinara sauce is a great choice for a traditional Italian dish. Or, a garlic aioli or creamy lemon sauce can add more flavor to the seasoned chicken breast.
| Sauce | Flavor Profile | Complementary Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Marinara Sauce | Tangy, herbal, and tomato-based | Parmesan cheese, fresh basil |
| Garlic Aioli | Creamy, garlicky, and rich | Lemon juice, Parmesan cheese |
| Creamy Lemon Sauce | Tangy, bright, and velvety | Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley |
With these flavor enhancements, your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken will be a hit. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Serving Suggestions
When your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is done, think about what sides to serve. This dish goes well with many sides that enhance its rich flavors.
Ideal Sides to Complement Your Dish
- Creamy mashed potatoes – The soft, buttery texture of mashed potatoes is a classic pairing with baked chicken.
- Roasted vegetables – Try roasting a medley of seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and asparagus to balance out the meal.
- Fresh garden salad – A crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the chicken.
- Buttered pasta – Serve the chicken over a bed of al dente pasta, like penne or linguine, for a complete Italian-inspired dinner.
Plating Tips for Presentation
For a restaurant-style plating, place the baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken on a warm plate. Garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Add a lemon wedge for a pop of color and a subtle citrus accent.
Arrange the side dishes around the chicken in a pleasing way. This will make your dish look and taste like it’s from a gourmet restaurant.
By choosing the right sides and plating your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken with care, you can make your meal look and taste like a chicken dinner idea from a fancy restaurant.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
Enjoying a delicious Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe often leads to satisfying leftovers. To ensure your leftover chicken retains its flavor and texture, follow these simple storage tips.
Best Practices for Storing
Store any leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. When freezing, be sure to use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Methods for Optimal Taste
- Oven: Reheat the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the crispy crust.
- Air Fryer: Reheat the chicken in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a crunchy finish.
- Microwave: If you’re short on time, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave on a lower power setting for 1-2 minutes. However, this may cause the chicken to become slightly less crispy.
By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken leftovers with the same delicious flavor and texture as the freshly prepared dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken needs focus and avoiding common errors. By avoiding these mistakes, your dish will be crispy, juicy, and full of flavor.
Overcooking the Chicken
One big mistake is overcooking the chicken. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. This ruins the dish’s texture and taste.
To avoid this, check the chicken’s internal temperature often. Aim for 165°F. Don’t leave the chicken in the oven too long, as the crust can burn.
Not Using Fresh Ingredients
Freshness is crucial for the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a better crust. It melts and sticks to the chicken, adding flavor.
Also, pick fresh herbs like basil or parsley for garnish. They improve the taste and look of the dish.
By steering clear of these cooking tips and chicken preparation mistakes, you’ll make a Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken that’s crispy outside and juicy inside.
Nutritional Information
The Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a tasty dish that’s also good for you. It has about 850 calories per serving. The mix of carbs, protein, and fat is balanced.
This dish is packed with protein, giving you 63g per serving. That’s 126% of what you need daily. It also has lots of calcium and iron, making it a healthy dinner choice.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 850 | – |
| Total Fat | 43.00g | 66% |
| Saturated Fat | 19.0g | 95% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 215mg | 72% |
| Sodium | 2070mg | 86% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40g | 13% |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Total Sugars | 3g | 6% |
| Protein | 63g | 126% |
| Calcium | 600mg | 60% |
| Iron | 5mg | 28% |
| Potassium | 500mg | 14% |
Even though it’s high in calories, it’s okay to enjoy it in moderation. Pair it with light sides for a balanced meal. It’s a great choice for healthy chicken recipes and nutritious dinner options.
Variations of the Recipe
The Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a hit, but you can make it even better. You can change the main ingredient or adjust it to fit your diet. This way, you can enjoy a tasty meal that’s just right for you.
Chicken Substitutes
Want to try something new? Use turkey cutlets or pork chops instead of chicken breasts. These options are just as tasty and can be a great change of pace.
Gluten-Free Adaptations
For a gluten-free version, swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or almond flour. This makes the dish perfect for those who can’t eat gluten. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for gluten-free chicken dishes.
Vegetarians or those eating less meat can use eggplant or cauliflower steaks. These plant-based options are just as tasty and can be prepared like the chicken.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match cheeses for different flavors. Try a mix of Parmesan, mozzarella, and Asiago for a creamy twist.
Exploring these variations lets you make the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken your own. You can adjust it to fit your taste and dietary needs. This way, you’re sure to have a delicious meal every time.
Conclusion
The Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is a tasty, restaurant-quality meal you can make at home. It lets you enjoy the flavorful and crispy parmesan crust of LongHorn Steakhouse. Plus, you can adjust the ingredients to your liking.
Recap of the Recipe Benefits
This homemade version of Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is both affordable and healthier. You can control the ingredients. It has a juicy inside and a golden, crunchy outside. It’s perfect for impressing your family and guests.
Encouragement to Try This at Home
Why not bring LongHorn Steakhouse flavors into your kitchen? This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a great chance to make your favorite restaurant dish at home. Enjoy the taste of homemade favorites whenever you want. Try it and see how amazing it is!
FAQ
What makes the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken dish popular?
It’s loved for its tasty mix of tender chicken, ranch spread, and a crunchy parmesan topping.
What are the key ingredients in this recipe?
You’ll need chicken breasts, Italian dressing, provolone and parmesan cheese, ranch dressing, and panko breadcrumbs.
What are the benefits of preparing this dish at home?
Making it at home saves money and lets you choose the best ingredients. You can also adjust flavors and sizes to fit your needs.
What are the essential ingredients needed for this recipe?
You’ll need chicken breasts, Italian dressing, provolone and parmesan cheese, ranch dressing, panko breadcrumbs, garlic salt, and butter.
What is the step-by-step preparation process for this dish?
First, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing. Then, pound it to even thickness. Prepare the ranch spread and parmesan topping separately.
Grill the chicken, assemble the toppings, and finish under the broiler for a crispy crust.
How long does it take to cook Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
It takes about 20 minutes. Grill the chicken for 6 minutes on each side. Then, broil until the cheese melts and the topping is golden.
How can I enhance the flavors of this dish?
Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the marinade or topping. A touch of lemon zest can also brighten the flavors.
What are some suggested side dishes to serve with Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Try mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or pasta for a complete Italian meal.
How can I properly store and reheat leftover Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Reheat in an oven or air fryer for crispiness. If microwaving, use low power to avoid toughness.
What common mistakes should I avoid when making this dish?
Don’t overcook the chicken to avoid dryness. Use fresh ingredients, especially for cheese and herbs. Don’t skip the marinating step for the best flavor.
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