Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Extravaganza: A Delightful Homemade Recipe

If you’re a fan of tender, juicy chicken with a cheesy, crispy coating, then this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is exactly what you need. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion, this dish combines simple ingredients with the rich, savory flavors inspired by the famous Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken. With only 10 minutes of prep time and a total of 35 minutes to create, this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe is sure to become a family favorite in no time! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this Parmesan Chicken recipe is easy to follow and yields restaurant-quality results.

Let’s dive into the detailed steps, storage tips, and expert advice to make your Parmesan Chicken truly shine.

Ingredients

Before we jump into the cooking process, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious dish. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering flavor and texture, so make sure to gather the following items:

• 4 chicken breasts – Boneless and skinless, perfect for absorbing all the delicious flavors.
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated – Freshly grated Parmesan works best for a crisp, golden finish.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – You can use panko for extra crunch or regular breadcrumbs for a finer texture.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic adds a wonderful, aromatic flavor to the coating.
• 1/4 cup butter – Melted butter helps the coating stick to the chicken and adds richness.
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped – Fresh parsley gives a pop of color and brightness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall taste.

Directions: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that your ingredients are ready, let’s break down the process step by step. This method ensures that your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken turns out crispy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A preheated oven ensures even cooking and a crispy, golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Parmesan Coating

In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Melt the Butter

In a separate small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/4 cup of butter. This will be used to help the Parmesan mixture stick to the chicken and add extra flavor.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, transfer the buttered chicken to the Parmesan mixture, pressing down lightly to ensure the mixture sticks to the entire surface of the chicken.

Step 5: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken

Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with additional fresh parsley, and serve hot with your favorite sides!

Serving Suggestions

This Parmesan Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

• Roasted vegetables – Carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts provide a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken.
• Mashed potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes add comfort and balance the crunch of the chicken.
• A fresh green salad – A light and tangy vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the cheese and butter.
• Buttery pasta – For a true Italian experience, serve this chicken over a bed of pasta tossed with olive oil or garlic butter.

Storage Tips

Have leftovers or want to prepare this dish in advance? Here’s how to store and reheat the Parmesan Chicken for maximum freshness:

• Refrigeration: Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until it’s heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the chicken soggy.

Helpful Notes

• Use fresh Parmesan cheese: Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture. For the best results, grate your Parmesan fresh.
• Butter alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute melted butter with olive oil for a lighter version of this dish.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Check the doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for food safety.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Gordon Ramsay: For extra depth of flavor, marinate your chicken breasts in a mixture of garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before coating and baking.
• Chef Ina Garten: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving to enhance the Parmesan flavor and add brightness to the dish.
• Chef Jamie Oliver: Try mixing in a little grated mozzarella with the Parmesan for an extra gooey, cheesy coating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for breasts. Keep in mind that thighs may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

2. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed cornflakes or panko for an extra crispy texture, or opt for almond flour if you’re avoiding grains.

3. How can I tell when the chicken is done?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The chicken should have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.

4. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F and cook the chicken for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

5. Can I add herbs or spices to the coating mixture?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the flavor by adding Italian seasoning, paprika, or even a dash of cayenne pepper to the Parmesan mixture.

6. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Coating the chicken in butter and Parmesan helps lock in moisture, but be sure not to overcook the chicken. A meat thermometer is your best friend here.

7. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to maintain its crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the coating soggy.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

9. What sides go well with Parmesan Chicken?

Popular side dishes include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh green salad.

10. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

No, because of the breadcrumbs. However, you can make it keto-friendly by substituting the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.