Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

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There’s something magical about a crispy, golden crust covering tender, juicy chicken – especially when it’s inspired by the beloved Longhorn Steakhouse. This Parmesan-crusted chicken takes your usual baked chicken dinner to the next level, bringing restaurant-quality flavors right to your home kitchen. Imagine biting into a savory, crispy crust that gives way to a tender, juicy chicken breast, topped with a blanket of melted mozzarella and garlic. This recipe combines familiar comfort with gourmet flair, making it perfect for impressing dinner guests or indulging in a special family meal.

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In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the steps to recreate this restaurant favorite, from preparing the crispy Parmesan crust to topping it with a generous layer of mozzarella. We’ll also provide tips for ingredient substitutions, possible variations, and serving suggestions to make it a dish you can make your own. Let’s dive into this flavorful journey!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this savory masterpiece. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to maximize flavor and ensure a perfect, crispy crust every time.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The heart of the dish, these tender chicken breasts are seasoned and coated for maximum juiciness and flavor.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided): Parmesan adds a nutty, savory flavor and creates a beautifully golden crust.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly over the chicken, giving it that cheesy, indulgent top layer.
• 1 cup bread crumbs: Provides a crispy coating; you can use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the breading adhere to the chicken, forming the base layer of the crust.
• 2 large eggs: Acts as a binding agent for the breadcrumb mixture.
• 1/4 cup milk: Adds a touch of creaminess to the egg mixture for an even coating.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the cheesy topping with its aromatic, savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to add a hint of earthy warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Brings out the natural flavors of the chicken and cheese.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of warmth and mild spice.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken to golden perfection before baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a baking dish with a little olive oil. This step is essential for achieving the perfect finish on your Parmesan chicken without sticking.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Stations

In order to achieve that perfectly crispy crust, you’ll want to set up a breading station with three shallow dishes:

1. Dish 1: Add the flour, which serves as the initial coating to help the breadcrumbs stick.
2. Dish 2: Whisk together the eggs and milk. This mixture allows the breadcrumbs to adhere firmly to the chicken.
3. Dish 3: Combine the bread crumbs, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will create the flavorful, crispy outer layer.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Working with one chicken breast at a time, dredge each piece in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring that the chicken is fully coated, then transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere evenly.

Pro Tip: For an extra-crispy crust, you can double-dip the chicken by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps. This will give your Parmesan chicken an extra layer of crunch!

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown. This quick sear locks in the moisture and adds an extra layer of flavor to the breading.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish and Add Topping

Place the seared chicken breasts into your prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, and minced garlic. Sprinkle this cheesy mixture generously over each chicken breast.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Keep an eye on the cheese topping; once it’s golden and gooey, your Parmesan chicken is ready!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes before serving. This brief resting period helps the juices redistribute within the chicken for an even more flavorful bite.

Tips and Variations

• Substitutions: If you’re looking to cut down on calories, try using panko breadcrumbs for a lighter crust. For a gluten-free version, swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs and use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Cheese Variations: While mozzarella gives a classic finish, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like fontina, provolone, or a sharper aged cheddar for extra flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: Customize your breadcrumb mixture with additional spices such as paprika for a smoky edge, or chili flakes if you enjoy a hint of spice.
• Cooking Method: For a quicker weeknight option, consider air-frying the chicken. This method achieves similar results with less oil and in half the time.

Serving Suggestions

This Parmesan-crusted chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture complements the crispy chicken and balances the savory notes.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers add color and a sweet contrast to the dish.
3. Pasta: A simple pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic provides an Italian-inspired pairing that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color, and add a lemon wedge for a touch of acidity that enhances the Parmesan’s nutty flavor.

Bringing It All Together

Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Chicken brings together the best of comfort food and sophisticated flavors. With its crispy coating, cheesy topping, and juicy interior, it’s the ultimate dinner treat for those who enjoy restaurant-style dishes in the comfort of their own home. The dish is simple enough to make on a busy weeknight yet elegant enough for a dinner party. The blend of Italian-inspired herbs, nutty Parmesan, and stretchy mozzarella will satisfy every craving. Give this recipe a try, and let each delicious bite transport you to a cozy night out at Longhorn Steakhouse!