Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a standout dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home. With its crispy, cheesy crust and tender chicken breast, it’s a meal that feels both indulgent and satisfying. This dish is perfect for family dinners, entertaining guests, or treating yourself to something special.

Inspired by the popular Longhorn Steakhouse recipe, this version is easy to follow and uses simple ingredients. The recipe combines classic cooking techniques with bold flavors to create a meal that’s as fun to prepare as it is to eat. Each bite offers a delightful balance of creamy, savory, and crispy textures.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. It’s straightforward, delicious, and bound to impress anyone at your table. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients List

To make Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home, you’ll need a mix of simple ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish:

Main Ingredients for the Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – 4 medium-sized pieces (about 6-8 ounces each).
Salt and black pepper – To season the chicken.
Olive oil or vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons for pan-searing.

Ingredients for Parmesan Crust

Shredded Parmesan cheese – 1 cup, freshly grated for maximum flavor.
Shredded provolone cheese – ½ cup for a creamy, melty texture.
Panko breadcrumbs – ½ cup for a crispy topping.
Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons, melted to bind the crust mixture.
Mayonnaise – ¼ cup, to help the crust stick to the chicken and add richness.

Key Seasonings and Spices

Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon for a savory boost.
Paprika – ½ teaspoon for color and a subtle smoky flavor.
Dried parsley – 1 teaspoon for garnish and a hint of freshness.

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon, drizzled over the chicken before serving.
Chili flakes – A pinch, if you prefer a bit of heat in your crust.

Preparation Steps

Making Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a straightforward process. To ensure the best results, it’s essential to prepare each component carefully before combining them into the final dish.

Preparing the Chicken

Trim the chicken: Begin by trimming any excess fat or connective tissue from the chicken breasts. This step ensures uniform cooking and a clean presentation.
Flatten for even cooking: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they’re about ½ inch thick. Flattening the chicken helps it cook evenly and quickly.
Season generously: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, and a light dusting of garlic powder. Pat the seasonings onto the surface to ensure they adhere well.

For another comforting chicken recipe, try this Chicken and Mushroom Fettuccine Alfredo.”

Creating the Parmesan Crust Mixture

Mix the cheeses: In a medium bowl, combine shredded Parmesan and provolone cheeses. Stir until evenly blended.
Prepare the crumb topping: In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. The butter helps the crumbs brown beautifully during baking.
Combine for the crust: Add the breadcrumb mixture to the cheese blend. Stir in mayonnaise until the mixture becomes thick and sticky. Set aside.

Want to explore another flavorful chicken dish? Check out this Fettuccine Alfredo with Blackened Chicken Recipe.

Assembling the Dish

Get everything ready: Arrange your prepared chicken, Parmesan crust mixture, and any remaining ingredients within easy reach. This setup makes the cooking process seamless.

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to fully preheat. A hot oven is key to achieving a golden crust.

Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Cooking Instructions

Cooking the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken involves three key steps: pan-searing the chicken, baking it, and finishing it with the Parmesan crust. Following these steps carefully ensures a flavorful, tender dish with a perfectly crispy topping.

Pan-Searing the Chicken

Heat the pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil. Heat until the oil shimmers but doesn’t smoke.
Sear the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan; work in batches if needed.
Set aside: Once seared, transfer the chicken to a plate. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the oven.

Baking to Perfection

Transfer to a baking dish: Arrange the seared chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Bake the chicken: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Prepare for the crust: Remove the chicken from the oven and set it aside while you add the Parmesan crust.

Serve your Parmesan Crusted Chicken alongside perfectly cooked pasta. Learn How to Cook Instant Pot Fettuccine Noodles Perfectly.

Adding the Parmesan Crust

Check for doneness: Remove the chicken from the oven. Ensure the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Spread the crust mixture: Generously spoon the prepared Parmesan crust mixture over the top of each chicken breast. Use the back of the spoon to press the mixture down gently, ensuring it adheres.

Broil to finish: Set your oven to the broil setting. Place the chicken back in the oven on the top rack and broil for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. The crust should turn golden brown and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is golden, crispy, and ready to serve, it’s time to elevate the dish with the right accompaniments and presentation tips. Pairing it with the perfect sides and garnishes can take this dish to a whole new level.

Heading 3: Best Side Dishes to Pair With Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture and savory garlic flavor of mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with the crispy crust and tender chicken.
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed green beans, broccoli, or asparagus add a fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich chicken.
Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf infused with herbs or saffron complements the dish beautifully.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and tangy dressing is a classic side that balances the richness of the chicken.
Buttered Noodles: Simple buttered noodles or pasta tossed with olive oil and Parmesan cheese make for a comforting addition.

Presentation Tips

Plating the Chicken: Place each chicken breast on a clean white plate for a professional presentation. Arrange the chosen side dishes attractively around the chicken.
Garnishing for Extra Appeal: Sprinkle the chicken with freshly chopped parsley or a dash of paprika for color. A lemon wedge on the side adds a vibrant touch and can be squeezed over the chicken for a fresh finish.
Add Height and Balance: Stack or layer sides like mashed potatoes or vegetables for a more dynamic and visually appealing plate.

Pairing with Beverages

For a Special Touch: Add a garnish to the glass, like a lemon twist or mint sprig, for a restaurant-like experience.

Wine: Serve with a glass of lightly oaked Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. These wines complement the creamy and cheesy flavors of the dish.

Non-Alcoholic Options: Pair the meal with a sparkling water infused with lemon or a refreshing iced tea.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips. These insights will help you achieve the best flavor, texture, and presentation while avoiding common pitfalls.

Ensuring a Crispy Parmesan Crust

Use Fresh Cheese: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan and provolone cheese instead of pre-packaged ones. Fresh cheese melts and browns more evenly, resulting in a crispier crust.
Don’t Skip the Broil: The broiling step is crucial to achieving that golden, bubbly topping. Keep a close eye during this step to prevent over-browning.
Balance Moisture Levels: If the crust mixture feels too dry, add a touch more mayonnaise. If it’s too wet, sprinkle in extra panko breadcrumbs. This ensures the crust adheres well to the chicken.

How to Avoid Overcooking

Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. Overcooking can dry out the meat, while undercooking can make it unsafe.
Flatten Chicken Evenly: Pounding the chicken to a uniform thickness ensures it cooks at the same rate.
Don’t Over-Broil: Once the crust is golden and bubbling, remove the chicken from the oven promptly to prevent it from drying out.

Adjustments for Personal Taste

Experiment with Cheese: Substitute or add other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère for a unique flavor profile.
Add Herbs and Spices: Mix dried thyme, oregano, or basil into the crust mixture for a herby twist.
Make It Spicy: Sprinkle chili flakes or cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mixture for a touch of heat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain the crisp crust. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until hot and crispy.

Creative Uses for Leftovers

Pasta Addition: Cut the chicken into strips and mix it with pasta, Alfredo sauce, and steamed vegetables for a quick and delicious dinner.

Chicken Parmesan Sandwich: Slice the chicken and serve it on a crusty roll with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.

Salad Topper: Dice the chicken and add it to a fresh green salad for a hearty meal.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about making Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

Can I Use Other Cheeses?

Absolutely! While Parmesan and provolone are the traditional choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack. Each cheese will add its own unique flavor and texture to the crust.

Is It Possible to Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare parts of the dish in advance. Pound and season the chicken, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also prepare the Parmesan crust mixture and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble and bake the dish.

Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

To lighten up the recipe, use low-fat cheese and replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You can also bake the chicken entirely without pan-searing it, though it may not have the same golden crust.

How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to retain the crispy crust. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add more juiciness to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs take longer to cook.

How Can I Add More Flavor?

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk or a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 1-2 hours before cooking. Adding spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to the crust mixture also enhances the dish.

Conclusion

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. Its crispy, cheesy topping combined with tender, juicy chicken makes it a standout dish for any occasion. By following the simple steps and tips provided, you can recreate this classic dish with confidence and flair.

Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or buttery noodles, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by experimenting with different cheeses, spices, or side dishes. Now it’s your turn to bring the taste of Longhorn Steakhouse into your own kitchen. Happy cooking!