Golden, crispy, and aromatic, the LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a dish that brings the unmistakable flavor of a steakhouse right into your kitchen. This delightful recipe is not just about satisfying your cravings; it’s also incredibly simple to whip up on a busy weeknight or whenever you want to treat your loved ones to something special. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a meal that’s both sumptuous and satisfying. The beauty of this Parmesan chicken lies in its crispy panko coating, which locks in the juicy goodness of the chicken beneath while providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Imagine serving this dish with creamy mashed potatoes or a refreshing garden salad, allowing the flavors to dance together harmoniously on your plate. The combination of garlic powder and Italian seasoning elevates the taste, making each mouthful a delightful experience. Moreover, this recipe’s easy preparation makes it an excellent addition to your repertoire of go-to dinner ideas. Whether you’re a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, the LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken can help you serve a memorable meal every time.
Why You’ll Love This LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
- Flavorful Experience: Infused with rich Parmesan cheese and aromatic spices, this dish offers a delightful burst of flavor.
- Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal without the stress.
- Versatile Pairings: Serve it with a range of sides, from fresh greens to buttery mashed potatoes.
- Restaurant-Quality: Bring the taste of gourmet dining to your dining table without needing to leave home.
- Quick Cooking: Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into your cooking adventure, ensure your kitchen is well-prepared. Start by gathering all your ingredients so that they are easy to access. You will need two boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which you should take out of the refrigerator beforehand to bring them to room temperature, facilitating even cooking. Additionally, gather your dry ingredients: panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. A shallow bowl for mixing the dry ingredients, a large skillet for searing, and a parchment-lined baking sheet for finishing in the oven will be necessary.
To achieve the best results, a meat mallet or rolling pin aids in pounding the chicken to an even thickness; this technique ensures the chicken cooks uniformly and tenderly. Make sure to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before you start cooking, which sets you up for successfully baking the chicken to perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
To achieve evenly cooked chicken, the first step is to pound the chicken breasts to a thickness of about 1/2 inch. This tenderizing process allows the meat to cook through more evenly, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful. Place each breast between sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound it with a meat mallet or rolling pin until it reaches the desired thickness.
Step 2: Create the Breadcrumb Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure the chicken will be evenly coated with the flavorful crust. This breadcrumb mixture is what provides that delicious, crunchy exterior that complements the moist chicken perfectly.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Next, lightly brush each chicken breast with mayonnaise to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere. The mayonnaise adds a hint of creaminess and richness, contributing to the flavor. Once the chicken is coated, press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is well-covered on both sides.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat—this oil will help develop a beautiful golden-brown crust on the chicken. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown, but don’t cook the chicken through at this stage, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
After searing, transfer the chicken breasts to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place them in your preheated oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes. The goal here is to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures not only food safety but also great tenderness!
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing flavor and moisture. Feel free to garnish your Parmesan chicken with chopped fresh parsley for an added touch of color and freshness before serving.
Variations
- Protein: Try using turkey cutlets for a lighter version, or even eggplant for a vegetarian take.
- Vegetables: Add some finely chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the breadcrumb mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices such as smoked paprika or cumin for a twist on the traditional flavors.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your chicken breasts are as uniform in size as possible to achieve even cooking.
- Using fresh Parmesan cheese will provide a more robust flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
- If you desire extra crunch, consider broiling the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking, but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Experiment with other herbs in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste, such as thyme or oregano.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of pasta for a comforting meal.
- Serve alongside a crisp garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette.
- Drizzle a lemon butter sauce over the chicken for an added flavor boost.
Tips
- For best results, allow the chicken to come to room temperature before cooking to promote even cooking.
- Keep the chicken in the oven until it reaches the proper internal temperature for safety while keeping it juicy.
- Add extra herbs like basil or dill to the mayonnaise for a unique flavor twist.
- Use leftover Parmesan chicken in wraps, salads, or pasta for a quick meal option.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 420 calories per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute traditional panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover Parmesan chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze cooked and cooled chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I pair this dish with for a complete meal?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
The LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is not just another chicken recipe; it’s an experience that’s sure to impress anyone who digs in. Its golden, crispy exterior and mouthwatering flavor profile echo the essence of fine dining. Now that you’ve mastered this dish, it’s time to incorporate it into your dinner rotation. Don’t hesitate to play around with variations for your personal taste, and share your experiences or questions in the comments below. This flavorful chicken dish promises to be a favorite for years to come, providing a restaurant-quality meal without ever having to leave home.
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LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
A golden, crispy, and flavorful chicken dish inspired by LongHorn Steakhouse.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pound the chicken to a thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- Create the Breadcrumb Mixture: Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl.
- Coat the Chicken: Brush chicken with mayonnaise and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake chicken at 400°F for 15-18 minutes.
- Rest and Serve: Let it rest before serving and garnish with parsley.
Notes
Ensure even thickness of chicken for uniform cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Protein: 32 g