If you’re a fan of Longhorn Steakhouse or just love crispy, cheesy chicken dishes, then you’re in for a treat. The Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe is a classic favorite that perfectly balances juicy chicken breasts, a flavorful Parmesan crust, and gooey mozzarella cheese topping. This restaurant-quality dish is surprisingly easy to make at home, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet dinner without stepping foot outside.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step, share expert tips for the perfect crispy crust, discuss ingredient alternatives, and suggest complementary side dishes that make this meal truly memorable. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting guests, or just craving a comforting dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken at Home?
Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore why making this dish at home is a fantastic idea:
- Cost-effective: Restaurant meals can be pricey. Preparing this Parmesan chicken at home lets you enjoy the same delicious flavors for a fraction of the cost.
- Customizable: You control the seasoning, cheese, and side pairings to match your preferences or dietary needs.
- Fresh Ingredients: You get to use fresh, quality ingredients without preservatives or additives found in some restaurant dishes.
- Cooking Skill Boost: Mastering this recipe enhances your culinary skills, especially in breading and pan-searing techniques.
- Impress Your Guests: This dish looks and tastes impressive—perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
Ingredients for the Perfect Parmesan Chicken
To achieve the authentic Longhorn Steakhouse flavor and texture, you’ll need fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Opt for thick, evenly sized breasts for uniform cooking.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan works best for optimal flavor and texture.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Plain or Italian seasoned breadcrumbs can be used. Panko breadcrumbs will add extra crunch.
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley: Adds color and a mild herbaceous flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds sweetness and aroma.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: For frying the chicken, choose extra virgin olive oil for better taste and health benefits.
- 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese: For a melty, gooey topping.
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce (optional): Adds a tangy, tomato-based layer complementing the cheese and chicken.
Step-by-Step Directions: How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Parmesan Breadcrumb Mixture
In a shallow bowl or plate, combine:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Mix these ingredients thoroughly to create a well-seasoned crust base.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This is crucial for the breading to adhere properly. If your breasts are uneven in thickness, gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently on both sides so the mixture sticks well. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
Step 5: Pan-Sear the Chicken
Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot but not smoking, add the coated chicken breasts. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown and crispy. The goal here is to develop a beautiful crust without fully cooking the chicken through.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
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