Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe

If you're a fan of the delicious, crispy, and flavorful Parmesan Crusted Chicken from Longhorn Steakhouse, you're in for a treat! This recipe replicates that iconic dish, allowing you to bring the taste of your favorite restaurant meal right into your own kitchen. Packed with the savory combination of Parmesan cheese, a crispy breadcrumb crust, and tender, juicy chicken, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table. Keep reading to learn how to make this mouthwatering dish at home, and don't forget to check out all the tips and tricks we have included to ensure you nail it every time!

What Is Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is one of the most popular items on the restaurant's menu, beloved by many for its savory, cheesy crust paired with perfectly seasoned and grilled chicken. The star of the dish is the combination of Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, creating a golden, crunchy layer on top of the tender chicken. The sauce and seasonings give the chicken a rich flavor that makes this dish stand out. Recreating this at home is easier than you might think, and with the right ingredients and method, you can enjoy it anytime!

Ingredients List for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

For the chicken and marinade:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Parmesan crust:

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably freshly grated)
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (or mozzarella)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the topping sauce:

• ½ cup ranch dressing
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Substitutions and Variations

If you don’t have certain ingredients on hand or want to adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs or preferences, here are some easy substitutions and variations:

• Chicken: You can swap out chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. Cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it's thoroughly cooked.
• Cheese: If provolone isn’t available, mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese are excellent substitutes. They will still give that gooey texture without sacrificing flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for a light and crispy crust, but regular breadcrumbs can be used in a pinch. You can also try crushed Ritz crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
• Dressing: While ranch dressing gives a creamy and tangy base for the Parmesan topping, you could substitute it with Caesar dressing for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasoning blend to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give the dish a little extra kick if you prefer it spicy.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own version of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home. Each step ensures your chicken will be as flavorful and crispy as the restaurant version.

1. Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken breasts. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with this mixture and allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step is key to getting flavorful and tender chicken.

2. Preheat the Grill or Oven

You can cook the chicken either by grilling or baking it. If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

3. Cook the Chicken

Grill or bake the marinated chicken breasts until fully cooked. If using the grill, cook for about 6–8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. If baking, cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest.

4. Prepare the Parmesan Crust

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the Parmesan crust. In a bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, shredded provolone cheese, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This mixture will form the cheesy, crispy topping for your chicken.

5. Make the Topping Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the ranch dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and Dijon mustard. This sauce will add another layer of flavor underneath the Parmesan crust.

6. Assemble the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, spoon a small amount of the topping sauce over each chicken breast. Then, generously top each piece with the Parmesan crust mixture, pressing it down lightly to help it adhere to the sauce.

7. Broil to Perfection

Place the assembled chicken under the broiler for 2–3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden brown and crispy. Be sure to watch closely to prevent burning.

How to Cook Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking this dish involves a few crucial steps, each contributing to its flavor and texture. Here’s a summary of the essential steps for perfect results:

1. Marinate the chicken: This step infuses the meat with flavor and keeps it moist.
2. Grill or bake the chicken: Cooking it through before adding the toppings ensures the meat is fully cooked.
3. Prepare the Parmesan crust and sauce: Combining the right cheeses with the panko breadcrumbs creates the signature crunchy texture.
4. Assemble and broil: Layer the sauce and crust on the cooked chicken and broil for just a couple of minutes to achieve that perfect golden finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the marinade: The marinade not only enhances the flavor of the chicken but also keeps it juicy. Don’t skip this step!
• Not preheating the grill or oven: Starting with a hot grill or oven is essential for even cooking. Failing to preheat can result in unevenly cooked chicken.
• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Burning the Parmesan crust: Broiling gives the crust its signature crispiness, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning. A couple of minutes is usually enough.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving this dish, especially if you're trying to replicate the restaurant experience at home. Here are a few tips to make your Parmesan Crusted Chicken look as good as it tastes:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds color and freshness to the dish.
• Serve with a lemon wedge: A slice of lemon on the side adds a pop of color and a bright flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and chicken.
• Choose the right side dishes: Serve the chicken with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side of pasta for a well-rounded meal.

How to Serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

This dish pairs beautifully with various side dishes, so feel free to get creative. Some classic options include:

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to the crispy, cheesy chicken.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans provide a healthy and colorful balance to the richness of the dish.
• Pasta: A light garlic butter or Alfredo pasta would pair well with the savory chicken.
• Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing can lighten up the meal and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.

Presentation Ideas for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

If you want to impress your guests with restaurant-style presentation, here are a few ideas:

• Use a white plate: White plates make the golden Parmesan crust and vibrant side dishes pop visually.
• Garnish with a lemon twist: Add a decorative lemon twist or a sprinkle of microgreens for an elegant touch.
• Serve family-style: Place the chicken on a platter in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves. This casual approach can make the meal feel warm and inviting.

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan will give you a better flavor and texture compared to pre-grated varieties.
• Don’t skip the broil: Broiling the chicken at the end gives the crust that perfect crispy texture, so don’t be afraid to use your oven’s broiler.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked but not dry, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also prepare the Parmesan crust and sauce in advance. Just wait to assemble and broil until you're ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken can be frozen. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat it in the oven to maintain the crispy crust.

Q: How do I reheat the chicken without losing the crispy texture?
A: The best way to reheat the chicken and retain its crispy crust is to place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as this can make the crust soggy.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.

Conclusion

There you have it! A delicious homemade version of Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its crispy Parmesan crust, tender chicken, and rich flavors, this recipe is sure to impress your family and guests. Give it a try, and enjoy the taste of restaurant-quality food from the comfort of your own kitchen. Happy cooking!

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