Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken

LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a beloved dish known for its juicy, tender chicken breast topped with a savory, crispy Parmesan crust. This recipe captures the essence of that restaurant favorite, allowing you to recreate it at home with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Perfect for dinner parties or a family meal, this dish pairs well with a variety of sides and is sure to impress.

Overview of the LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

This LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe involves marinating the chicken breasts for added flavor and tenderness, then grilling them to perfection before adding a layer of creamy, cheesy topping and a crispy Parmesan crust. The result is a deliciously satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor and texture.

Brief History and Cultural Significance

LongHorn Steakhouse, known for its hearty, flavorful dishes, has made the Parmesan Crusted Chicken a standout on its menu. This dish combines American grilling techniques with Italian-inspired ingredients, creating a fusion that’s both comforting and gourmet. Recreating this dish at home brings a touch of the restaurant’s atmosphere into your kitchen, making it a favorite for home cooks and food enthusiasts alike.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Recipe details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 4 servings

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grill or grill pan
• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Meat thermometer
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: For preparing the marinade and mixing the Parmesan crust topping.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients for consistent results.
• Grill or grill pan: Used to cook the chicken breasts to achieve a nice char and flavor.
• Baking sheet: For finishing the chicken in the oven with the Parmesan crust topping.
• Oven: Melts the cheese and crisps the Parmesan topping.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
• Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken on the grill and transferring it to the baking sheet.

Preparation Tips

• Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides the best flavor and texture for the crust.
• Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through but still juicy.

Ingredients List 

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup Italian dressing (for marinating)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for crust)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the Italian dressing over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill and Oven:
   • Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Grill the Chicken:
   • Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Grill the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Remove from the grill and set aside on a baking sheet.
4. Prepare the Parmesan Crust:
   • In a small mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Set aside.
5. Prepare the Topping:
   • In another bowl, mix together the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, mayonnaise, and sour cream until well combined.
6. Assemble and Bake:
   • Spread a layer of the mozzarella mixture over each grilled chicken breast. Sprinkle the Parmesan-panko mixture on top of the mozzarella layer.
7. Finish in the Oven:
   • Place the baking sheet with the chicken breasts in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the Parmesan crust is golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve:
   • Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Side Dish Recommendations

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy garlic mashed potatoes make a perfect side dish for the LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken. The smooth texture and rich flavor of the potatoes complement the crispy Parmesan crust of the chicken.

Steamed Vegetables

A mix of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and green beans, adds a healthy and colorful touch to your meal. The fresh flavors and crisp texture balance the richness of the chicken.

Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese is a great accompaniment. The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a nice contrast to the savory chicken.

Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus spears with a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese make a simple yet elegant side dish that pairs well with the chicken.

Rice Pilaf

Fluffy rice pilaf with sautéed onions, garlic, and a mix of herbs is a wonderful side to soak up the juices from the chicken. The subtle flavors of the rice complement the bold flavors of the Parmesan crust.

Sautéed Spinach

Quickly sautéed spinach with garlic and olive oil offers a nutritious and flavorful side dish. The slight bitterness of the spinach adds a nice contrast to the rich chicken.

Herb Roasted Potatoes

Crispy herb-roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary, thyme, and garlic are a delicious side dish. Their crispy exterior and soft interior are a great match for the chicken.

Fresh Tomato Basil Salad

A fresh tomato basil salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, mozzarella balls, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction is a refreshing and light side dish that complements the chicken.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

The LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is not only delicious but also offers several nutritional benefits:

• Chicken Breast:
  • Lean Protein: Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Low in Fat: Compared to other cuts of chicken, the breast is relatively low in fat, making it a healthier option.
• Parmesan Cheese:
  • Rich in Calcium: Parmesan cheese is high in calcium, which is crucial for bone health.
  • Protein Source: It also provides a good amount of protein.
• Mozzarella Cheese:
  • Calcium and Protein: Mozzarella cheese is another source of calcium and protein, supporting overall health.
• Panko Breadcrumbs:
  • Lower in Calories: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, often containing fewer calories and less fat.
• Healthy Fats:
  • Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These ingredients add healthy fats to the dish, which are necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and overall health.

Overall, this dish provides a balanced mix of lean protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken:
  • Mistake: Overcooking can result in dry, tough chicken.
  • Solution: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C) without overcooking. Remove the chicken from the grill at 160°F (71°C) and let it rest; it will continue to cook to the desired temperature.
• Not Squeezing Excess Moisture:
  • Mistake: Using too much dressing or not drying the chicken properly after marinating can lead to a soggy crust.
  • Solution: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before grilling.
• Inadequate Seasoning:
  • Mistake: Not seasoning the chicken adequately can result in bland meat.
  • Solution: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before marinating and ensure the marinade is well-balanced with spices.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

• Grate Fresh Parmesan:
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese has a better flavor and texture than pre-grated varieties.
• Crispy Crust:
  • To achieve a crispy Parmesan crust, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
• Rest the Chicken:
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish.

Tips, Notes, Storing, and Reheating

Additional Tips for the Best Results

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Parmesan and mozzarella cheese will yield the best flavor and texture for your Parmesan crust.
• Even Coating: Make sure the Parmesan crust mixture evenly coats the chicken to ensure a consistent crispy texture.
• Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy and flavorful.

Storing Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Guidelines

• Oven Reheating: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Reheat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Microwave Reheating: Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

What is the LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe made of?

The LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in Italian dressing, grilled, and topped with a mixture of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. It is then finished with a crispy Parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella cheese with another melty cheese such as provolone or fontina. Parmesan cheese can also be substituted with Pecorino Romano for a slightly different flavor.

How do I ensure the chicken stays moist?

Marinating the chicken and not overcooking it are key to keeping the chicken moist. Use a meat thermometer to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Letting the chicken rest after cooking also helps retain its juices.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensuring that the Italian dressing is gluten-free.

How long does the LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, the chicken can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

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Conclusion

The LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of a favorite restaurant meal to your home kitchen. With its juicy chicken breasts and crispy, cheesy topping, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with a variety of side dishes for a complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion.