The Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture. Known for its rich, cheesy crust and tender, juicy chicken, this recipe has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers everywhere. The good news? You don’t need to visit Longhorn Steakhouse to enjoy this dish. With this simple copycat recipe, you can recreate the restaurant experience right at home, saving time and money while customizing it to your preferences.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a casual weekday meal, or a special occasion, the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is sure to impress. With its bold Parmesan flavor and crispy breadcrumb coating, this dish brings a gourmet touch to your table. In addition to being incredibly satisfying, it’s also versatile—offering countless pairing possibilities with sides and sauces to elevate your dining experience.
Why is it called Parmesan chicken?
The name Parmesan Chicken comes from its signature ingredient, Parmesan cheese, which plays a central role in the dish’s flavor and preparation. The cheese is typically used to create a crispy and flavorful crust that coats the chicken, often combined with breadcrumbs and seasonings.
The dish is inspired by Italian culinary traditions, particularly Chicken Parmigiana (or Chicken Parmesan). In its classic Italian-American form, Chicken Parmigiana involves breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Over time, variations of this dish have emerged, including simpler recipes like Parmesan Crusted Chicken, which emphasize the cheesy crust without the marinara or mozzarella.
The name highlights the use of Parmesan cheese as the star ingredient, giving the dish its distinctive savory and rich taste.
What Makes Parmesan Crusted Chicken So Special?
The Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe stands out for its delightful combination of flavors and textures. Each bite offers a perfect balance of savory, cheesy goodness and crispy coating, complemented by the moist and tender chicken inside. The Parmesan crust is the star, delivering a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the dish beyond ordinary chicken recipes.
Additionally, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate different preferences. For example, you can choose to pan-fry the chicken for a crispier crust or bake it for a healthier, less oily alternative. The optional garlic butter sauce is a delicious addition that enhances the overall flavor, making every bite indulgent.
Cooking this recipe at home also means you can experiment with ingredients. You might try adding a touch of spice, swapping Parmesan for Pecorino Romano, or incorporating fresh herbs for added aroma. The flexibility of this dish ensures it remains a staple in your recipe collection.
Why Recreate This Recipe at Home?
Making the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe at home is a rewarding culinary endeavor. Not only does it offer a chance to enjoy a restaurant-style meal without leaving your kitchen, but it also allows for greater control over the ingredients and preparation. For instance, you can:
- Opt for organic or free-range chicken for a healthier meal.
- Use whole-grain breadcrumbs or gluten-free alternatives to suit dietary needs.
- Adjust the seasoning to create a flavor profile that matches your preferences.
Beyond the health benefits, preparing this dish at home lets you enjoy it fresh from the oven or skillet. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly cooked Parmesan-crusted chicken wafting through your home, signaling a meal that’s sure to delight everyone at the table.
Moreover, homemade meals like this are cost-effective. Instead of spending on dining out, you can recreate the same experience with affordable, store-bought ingredients. Pair it with simple sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, and you’ll have a complete meal that rivals any restaurant offering.
What is Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken made of?
To make this flavorful Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless): The foundation of the dish. Thinly slicing them will ensure quicker cooking.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor, but pre-grated works in a pinch.
- Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs provide additional seasoning, while Panko adds a crispier texture.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the depth of flavor, although garlic powder is a good alternative.
- Egg and Milk: These help bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
- Olive Oil or Butter: Necessary for frying the chicken to golden perfection.
- Optional Toppings: Parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh garnish.
How to Prepare Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions :
1. Preheat the Oven or Heat Your Pan
- For baking, preheat to 375°F (190°C).
- For pan-frying, heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Prepare the Chicken
- First, slice whole chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner cutlets.
- Then, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Prepare the Breading
- Next, in one bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and garlic powder.
- In another bowl, whisk the egg and milk.
4. Coat the Chicken
- After preparing the mixtures, dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the crust sticks well.
5. Cook the Chicken
- For Pan-Frying: Cook the chicken in a skillet for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- For Oven-Baking: Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Methods and Tips for Perfect Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Pan-Frying
- This method creates a crispier exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside. Furthermore, using medium heat will prevent the crust from burning.
- Alternatively, you can use an air fryer for a healthier option, which still delivers excellent results.
Baking
- Baking is a less messy method and works well if you want to avoid frying. To enhance the flavor, drizzle garlic butter over the chicken before placing it in the oven. Additionally, ensure even cooking by flipping the chicken halfway through baking.
Best Side Dishes to Pair with Parmesan Crusted Chicken
A complete meal is about more than just the main dish. Therefore, pair this chicken with these complementary sides:
- Side Salad: A light vinaigrette on mixed greens balances the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, they make an excellent pairing.
- Steamed Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or asparagus provides a fresh, healthy contrast.
- Rice or Pasta: Lemon rice or garlic butter pasta are satisfying options.
Serving Suggestions and Plating Tips
A beautifully plated dish enhances the dining experience. Therefore, consider these tips:
- Plating Tips: Drizzle the chicken with garlic butter and garnish with parsley or extra Parmesan. Adding a lemon wedge can also brighten the flavors.
- For Special Occasions: Serve on a large platter alongside your choice of sides for a restaurant-style presentation.
Is breaded chicken healthy?
Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) are a lean source of protein, making them a good choice for a healthier dish. Using olive oil instead of butter for frying and opting for baking instead of deep-frying can significantly reduce the amount of fat and calories. Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor with less added sodium compared to pre-grated varieties, and whole-grain breadcrumbs can be used for a healthier alternative to traditional breadcrumbs. While egg and milk help bind the breadcrumbs, you can use lower-fat milk or egg whites to reduce calories. The addition of garlic provides flavor without extra calories. To make it even healthier, limit the amount of oil or butter used for frying, or consider baking the chicken for a crispier, lower-fat result. Overall, this dish can be part of a balanced diet if prepared in moderation with healthier choices.
Is chicken parmesan high in calories?
Chicken Parmesan is indeed a high-calorie dish due to its rich ingredients and preparation methods. A typical serving contains around 500-700 calories, making it a hearty and indulgent option. This calorie content arises from the breaded and fried chicken, cheesy toppings, and additional components like marinara sauce or optional pasta sides.
In addition to calories, Chicken Parmesan offers significant amounts of protein and fat. On average, it provides 40-50 grams of protein and 15-20 grams of fat per serving. Carbohydrates are present in moderate amounts, mainly from the breading and accompanying dishes.
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional aspects for clarity:
| Nutritional Aspecs | Details |
| Calories | Approximately 500-700 calories per serving |
| Protein | 40-50 grams of protein per serving |
| Fat | 15-20 grams of fat per serving |
| Carbohydrates | Modest carbohydrates depending on breading and sides |
| Preparation Influence | Calorie count varies based on frying, cheese, and portion size |
| Healthier Alternatives | Bake chicken, reduce cheese, or use lighter cooking techniques |
FAQs About Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts in most recipes. Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful due to their higher fat content, making them a great choice for dishes that require longer cooking or need more moisture. While they take a bit longer to cook than breasts, they stay tender and don’t dry out as easily. Chicken breasts, being leaner, cook faster but can become dry if overcooked. Thighs are also higher in fat and calories, so if you’re looking for a lighter option, breasts are a better choice. However, both cuts can be swapped depending on your flavor and texture preferences.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
You can substitute Parmesan cheese with several options depending on your needs. Pecorino Romano and Grana Padano are the closest in flavor and texture, while Asiago offers a slightly milder taste.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare many components of a dish ahead of time. For example, if you are making a chicken dish like Parmesan-crusted chicken, you can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. For dishes like chicken, it’s best to refrigerate them within two hours of cooking.
Can I Freeze Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Parmesan crusted chicken. If you prefer, you can also freeze the breaded chicken before cooking, just be sure to coat it thoroughly and store it the same way.
What Is the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
For crispy items like Parmesan crusted chicken, reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes works well.
Conclusion
Making Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe at home is a simple yet rewarding way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal. Not only does it allow you to customize the recipe, but it also ensures freshness and control over the ingredients. Whether pan-fried or baked, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.
So, the next time you are in the mood for a comforting and flavorful chicken dish, give this copycat recipe a try. You’ll love every bite!
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