copycat longhorn parmesan crusted chicken

Craving a dish that’s both creamy and crispy, hearty and flavorful? You’re in the right place! If you’ve ever had the Parmesan Crusted Chicken from Longhorn Steakhouse, you know just how delicious it is. Luckily, you don’t have to wait for your next visit to enjoy this fan favorite—you can easily recreate it at home!

In this article, we’ll take you step-by-step through the process of making a copycat version of Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone looking to try something new in the kitchen, this guide will help you prepare this mouthwatering dish with ease. Along the way, we’ll cover everything from the key ingredients to essential tips for perfecting that golden, crispy crust. So, let’s get started!

Understanding the Dish

History and Origin of Parmesan Crusted Chicken

The Parmesan Crusted Chicken isn’t just another chicken recipe—it’s a classic favorite at Longhorn Steakhouse. Known for its crispy crust and creamy flavor, this dish has made its way into the hearts of food lovers everywhere. But where did it come from? While the Parmesan crust has been a popular topping for various meats and dishes for years, this specific chicken recipe rose to fame in the early 2000s. The combination of golden Parmesan, crunchy Panko breadcrumbs, and juicy chicken breast quickly became a staple at Longhorn.

This dish has since become a must-try for anyone who loves flavorful, crispy comfort food. With a balance of salty Parmesan and savory garlic, it’s easy to see why this is one of the restaurant’s most popular items.

Key Components of the Dish

At its core, Parmesan Crusted Chicken is all about the crispy crust and the juicy chicken that hides beneath. Let’s break it down:

• Chicken Breast: Most recipes call for boneless, skinless chicken breasts as the base. The chicken should be tender and moist, which is why marinating or seasoning is key to locking in flavor.
• Parmesan Crust: The star of the dish. The Parmesan gives it that cheesy, salty flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy Panko breadcrumbs. Some recipes also include a little garlic powder to amp up the flavor.
• Cooking Method: Traditionally, the chicken is seared to create a crispy outer layer, then baked to perfection. The dual cooking methods ensure that the crust remains golden and crunchy while the chicken stays juicy and tender inside.

Nutritional Information

Now, if you’re wondering about the nutritional facts, it’s good to know what you’re dealing with. Typically, a serving of Parmesan Crusted Chicken can range from 400-600 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients. The majority of the calories come from the bread crumbs and Parmesan, while the chicken itself contributes lean protein.

Though delicious, the dish does lean toward being higher in fat and sodium. If you’re watching your intake, you can try tweaking the recipe to make it a little lighter—perhaps by using a light ranch dressing or by choosing lower-fat cheeses.

In the next step, we’ll dive into the exact ingredients you’ll need to make this copycat version in your own kitchen!

Ingredients and Equipment

Essential Ingredients

To make Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you need just a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best. They cook fast and stay tender.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan works best. It adds a sharp, salty flavor to the crust.
• Provolone Cheese: Some recipes add provolone to make the crust even creamier and richer.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the crust its crispy texture. They’re light and crunchy, perfect for a golden coating.
• Ranch Dressing: This helps bind the cheese and breadcrumbs together, adding flavor and moisture.
• Butter: Melted butter is used to brush the chicken and help the crust get that golden color.
• Garlic Powder: A little bit of garlic powder adds flavor to the crust.
• Salt and Pepper: These simple seasonings help bring out all the other flavors.

Optional Ingredients for Variations

Want to change things up? You can try adding a few other ingredients:

• Mozzarella or Swiss Cheese: Add a different cheese for a slightly different flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: For a more herby taste, sprinkle some Italian seasoning into the breadcrumb mix.
• Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest adds freshness and a burst of citrus to the dish.

Recommended Equipment

Here are the tools you’ll need to make this recipe a success:

• Meat Tenderizer: If your chicken breasts are thick, use a meat tenderizer to flatten them. This helps them cook evenly.
• Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet works great for searing the chicken. It helps get the crust crispy.
• Oven-Safe Baking Dish: If you need to bake the chicken, a good baking dish is key.
• Meat Thermometer: To check the chicken’s doneness, a meat thermometer is very helpful. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

With the right ingredients and tools, you’ll be ready to recreate this Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home! Now let’s get into the cooking steps.

Preparation Steps

Marinating the Chicken

First, you’ll want to marinate the chicken to make it flavorful and juicy. You can skip this step if you’re in a hurry, but marinating helps lock in moisture and taste.

• Season the chicken breasts with a bit of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
• If you have time, let the chicken sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour. This will help the flavors soak in.

Preparing the Parmesan Crust

Next, it’s time to make the Parmesan crust. Here’s how to do it:

• In a bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, and a little garlic powder.
• Pour in a couple of tablespoons of ranch dressing and mix everything together until it forms a thick paste.
• You want the mixture to stick to the chicken, so make sure it’s not too runny. If it is, add a little more breadcrumbs.

Assembling the Dish

Now that the chicken and crust are ready, it’s time to assemble the dish.

• Take each chicken breast and dip it into the Parmesan crust mixture. Make sure the chicken is evenly covered on both sides.
• For extra crunch, you can press the crust into the chicken so it sticks better.
• Place the coated chicken on a plate, ready for cooking.

Cooking Methods

There are two key cooking methods to get this dish just right: searing and baking.

• Searing: Heat a little butter or olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until it’s golden brown and crispy.
• Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F. After searing, place the chicken on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

These steps help ensure the Parmesan Crusted Chicken has the perfect crispy outside and tender inside. Once done, it’s ready to serve!

In the next section, we’ll talk about how to serve this dish, including some great side ideas to complete the meal.

Serving Suggestions

Recommended Side Dishes

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken goes perfectly with a few simple sides. Here are some great options to pair with your dish:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side. They’re smooth and buttery, balancing the crispy chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasting some vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or zucchini. The natural sweetness of the vegetables complements the savory chicken.
• Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with a simple vinaigrette can add a refreshing touch. Think mixed greens with some cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices.

Beverage Pairings

Though we won’t be talking about wine, there are still some great drinks to enjoy with your meal:

• Iced Tea: Iced tea is a refreshing drink that pairs well with just about any meal. You can sweeten it a bit or keep it plain for a lighter option.
• Lemonade: Fresh lemonade adds a tangy flavor that complements the richness of the chicken.
• Sparkling Water: For something light and bubbly, try sparkling water. It’s a great way to cleanse your palate between bites.

Presentation Tips

Want to make your Parmesan Crusted Chicken look as good as it tastes? Here are a few simple plating ideas:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top of the chicken for a pop of color.
• Serve with a Lemon Wedge: A lemon wedge on the side adds a burst of freshness and makes the dish look more appealing.
• Use a Clean Plate: Make sure the plate is clean around the edges. A simple, tidy presentation makes everything look more inviting.

These little touches can make your meal feel even more special. Next, we’ll dive into some frequently asked questions that people often have about this dish.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. They’re a bit juicier and have more flavor than breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may need a little longer to cook through.

How can I make the dish spicier?

If you want a spicy kick, try adding some red pepper flakes to the crust mixture. You can also drizzle hot sauce over the chicken once it’s cooked. It’ll add that extra heat you’re looking for.

Can I prepare the dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time. Coat the chicken with the Parmesan crust and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to cook, just sear and bake as usual. This can save you time on busy days.

What are some low-carb alternatives?

If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can replace the Panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. This will give you that crispy texture without the carbs. You could also serve the chicken with a side of zucchini noodles instead of mashed potatoes.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until it’s heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet to keep the crust crispy.

Now you know all the ins and outs of making this delicious dish! Let’s wrap up with a quick recap.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a tasty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines a crispy Parmesan crust with juicy chicken, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

With this copycat recipe, you can easily recreate the Longhorn Steakhouse favorite right in your own kitchen. It’s simple to make, and you don’t need any fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this dish will surely be a hit!

We hope you feel inspired to try making this Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home. It’s a great way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without leaving your house. Don’t forget to share your results and let us know how it turned out! Happy cooking!

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