Description: Recreate the restaurant-favorite Parmesan Crusted Chicken from Longhorn Steakhouse in the comfort of your own kitchen. This recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken coated in a crispy, flavorful parmesan crust. It’s surprisingly easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best for flavor and texture)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned, finely ground)
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons fresh, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin olive oil preferred)
- 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra cheesy goodness)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving – choose your favorite brand or make your own)
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
- Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness after baking.
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
- Lightly grease a baking sheet. You can use cooking spray, olive oil, or line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. The greased surface prevents the chicken from sticking and ensures even browning on the bottom.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients for the Parmesan Crust.
- In a shallow bowl (a pie plate or wide, shallow dish works well), combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Use a fork or whisk to thoroughly mix the ingredients. This ensures that all the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the crust.
- Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, if desired.
Step 3: Prepare and Coat the Chicken Breasts.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. Excess moisture will prevent the breadcrumbs from adhering properly.
- If the chicken breasts are very thick (more than 1 inch), consider pounding them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent splattering. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the outside from drying out before the inside is cooked through.
- One at a time, dredge each chicken breast in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the mixture adheres to the surface. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly on all sides.
- Set the coated chicken breasts aside while you heat the olive oil.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken Breasts.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Use a skillet that is large enough to comfortably accommodate both chicken breasts without overcrowding.
- Once the oil is shimmering and hot (but not smoking), carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy. Searing the chicken creates a flavorful crust and helps to seal in the juices.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature of the oil and prevent the chicken from browning properly. If necessary, sear the chicken in batches.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken and Add Mozzarella (Optional).
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet.
- If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top of the chicken breasts.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked.
- If desired, turn on the broiler for the last minute or two to melt and brown the mozzarella cheese. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender chicken.
- Serve immediately with marinara sauce (if using) and your favorite sides. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a brightness that complements the richness of the Parmesan and cheese.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: You get to enjoy the deliciousness of a restaurant-style dish without leaving your house. It’s a fraction of the cost and you control the ingredients.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The process is broken down into clear, manageable steps.
- Flavorful and Crispy: The Parmesan crust is packed with flavor and provides a satisfying crunch. The combination of parmesan, garlic, and herbs is simply irresistible.
- Versatile: This chicken is delicious on its own or served with pasta, salads, or vegetable sides. The possibilities are endless!
- Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is a guaranteed hit with both adults and children. Even picky eaters will love the crispy, cheesy crust.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. Use different types of cheese, add spices, or try different dipping sauces.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and bake it just before serving. The coated chicken breasts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pasta: Serve the Parmesan Crusted Chicken over a bed of your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. Toss the pasta with marinara sauce or a creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Salad: Pair the chicken with a fresh garden salad or a Caesar salad for a light and healthy meal.
- Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic accompaniment to Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
- Rice: Serve over a bed of rice, such as white rice, brown rice, or risotto.
- Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread is the perfect addition to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Marinara Sauce: Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping, spooning sauce over the chicken, or using as a base for pasta.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving adds brightness and complements the richness of the dish.
Tips:
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: The flavor of freshly grated Parmesan is far superior to pre-grated cheese. It also melts better and creates a crispier crust.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning. Overcrowding the skillet will lower the temperature of the oil and prevent the chicken from browning properly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This will guarantee that the chicken is safe to eat and prevent it from being overcooked and dry.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
- Add a Kick: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or drizzle a little hot sauce over the chicken before serving.
- Vary the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, such as asiago, provolone, or fontina.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 40-50g
- Sodium: 500-700mg
Conclusion:
This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe offers a delightful culinary experience, bringing the taste of a restaurant-favorite dish to your home. The combination of a crispy, flavorful Parmesan crust and juicy, tender chicken makes for a satisfying and memorable meal. Easy to prepare and customizable to your preferences, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken is guaranteed to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the delicious results!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
- While pre-shredded Parmesan cheese is convenient, freshly grated Parmesan will result in a better flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can hinder melting and crisping. If you must use pre-shredded, opt for a high-quality brand and grate it further if possible.
- What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
- You can easily make your own breadcrumbs by toasting slices of bread in the oven or toaster until dry, then grinding them in a food processor or blender. Alternatively, you can use crushed crackers (like Ritz or saltines) or even crushed cornflakes for a different texture. Panko breadcrumbs will provide a very crispy crust.
- Can I bake the chicken without searing it first?
- Yes, you can bake the chicken without searing it, but searing adds flavor and helps to create a crispy crust. If you skip the searing step, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. Bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the chicken breasts (coated in the breadcrumb mixture) up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When ready to cook, sear the chicken and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prepping.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
- To reheat the chicken, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the crust soggy. You can also reheat it in an air fryer for a crispier result.
