Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

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Introduction

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken has become a household favorite for its rich flavor, crispy topping, and tender, juicy meat. This dish captures the essence of comfort food with a gourmet twist, making it perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even meal prep. The recipe mimics the signature dish served at Longhorn Steakhouse, but with an easy-to-follow approach that anyone can replicate at home.

The secret lies in its layers of flavor: a juicy chicken breast base, a creamy ranch dressing spread, and a crispy parmesan cheese crust. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to preparing the dish to perfection, with helpful tips, customization options, and serving ideas.

A plated serving of Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken with garnished parsley and lemon wedges.

Ingredients Overview

A successful Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken begins with choosing the right ingredients. Here’s a comprehensive list:

Key Ingredients for the Chicken Base

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use fresh or thawed chicken breasts, ideally 6–8 ounces each, for even cooking.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken.
  • Olive Oil or Butter: For pan-searing, adding a golden-brown crust.

Ingredients for the Parmesan Crust

  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: The star of the dish, delivering nutty, salty flavors.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates a light, crispy texture.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds depth to the crust.
  • Melted Butter: Ensures the breadcrumb mixture binds and crisps perfectly.

Ingredients for the Creamy Ranch Layer

  • Ranch Dressing: Use high-quality or homemade ranch dressing.
  • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully to create a creamy layer.
  • Sour Cream or Mayonnaise (Optional): Enhances the creaminess of the mixture.

Additional Ingredients

  • Fresh Herbs (Optional): Chopped parsley or chives for garnish.
  • Lemon Wedges: Adds a fresh zing when served.

Preparation Steps

1: Prepping the Chicken

  1. Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until the thickness is uniform (about ½ inch). This ensures even cooking.
  2. Season Generously: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. If desired, add a pinch of paprika for color.

2: Preparing the Parmesan Crust Mixture

  1. Mix the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine grated parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  2. Set Aside: Keep the mixture handy for the assembly process.

3: Preparing the Creamy Ranch Layer

  1. Blend Ingredients: In another bowl, mix ranch dressing with shredded mozzarella cheese. Add a dollop of sour cream or mayonnaise if desired for extra richness.
  2. Refrigerate: Place the mixture in the fridge to firm up slightly while you cook the chicken.

4: Organizing Cooking Tools

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Gather essential tools: a large oven-safe skillet, a mixing bowl, and a meat thermometer for precision.

Cooking Process

Perfectly preparing Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken requires a combination of pan-searing and baking to achieve the juicy interior and crispy exterior. Follow these detailed steps:

Chicken being pan-seared in a skillet on the stove.

1: Searing the Chicken

  1. Heat the Pan: Place a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter. Heat until shimmering.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan, ensuring they don’t overlap. Sear for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in moisture and develops a flavorful crust.
  3. Transfer the Chicken: Remove the pan from heat but leave the chicken in the skillet.

2: Adding the Ranch Layer

  1. Spread the Creamy Mixture: Using a spatula, evenly spread the prepared ranch mixture over each chicken breast. Aim for a thick, even coat to ensure the flavor penetrates the meat during baking.

3: Applying the Parmesan Crust

  1. Top with the Crust Mixture: Generously spoon the parmesan breadcrumb mixture onto the creamy ranch layer. Use your hands to gently press the mixture into place, ensuring it adheres to the creamy layer.

4: Baking the Chicken

  1. Transfer to Oven: Place the skillet with the chicken into the preheated oven.
  2. Bake to Perfection: Cook for 15–20 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
  3. Broil for Crispiness: Turn on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy parmesan crust. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 5: Resting the Chicken

  1. Allow to Rest: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and flavorful meat.
  2. Optional Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.

The chicken is now fully cooked, with a creamy, cheesy layer and a crisp parmesan topping. It’s time to serve and enjoy this delectable dish!

Serving Suggestions

A well-prepared Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken deserves thoughtful presentation and complementary sides to create a complete, satisfying meal. Below are creative ideas for serving and pairing this dish:

Plating the Chicken

  1. Slice or Serve Whole: Depending on the presentation style, serve the chicken breast whole or slice it diagonally into thin pieces for an elegant look.
  2. Use a Warm Plate: Warm plates help maintain the dish’s temperature and showcase its textures and aromas.

Ideal Side Dishes

Pairing this chicken with the right sides enhances its flavors. Consider the following options:

Vegetable-Based Sides

  • Roasted Vegetables: A medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted with olive oil, garlic, and herbs complements the dish.
  • Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: Light and nutritious, these greens balance the richness of the chicken.
  • Caesar Salad: A fresh, tangy Caesar salad pairs beautifully with the creamy ranch layer of the chicken.

Carb-Based Sides

  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a touch of garlic enhance the comforting appeal of the dish.
  • Buttery Rice Pilaf: A subtly seasoned rice pilaf provides a neutral backdrop for the bold flavors of the chicken.
  • Pasta with Light Sauce: Angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil, parsley, and lemon zest complements the parmesan crust.

Bread Options

  • Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is a classic choice.
  • Soft Dinner Rolls: Serve with a pat of butter to complete a cozy meal.

Pairing Beverages

The right drink can elevate your dining experience. Here are suggestions:

  1. Lemonade or Iced Tea: For non-alcoholic options, these beverages refresh the palate.
  2. Light Lager: A mild beer pairs well with the cheesy and creamy elements of the dish.

Garnishing the Dish

  1. Herbs for Aroma: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or chives over the chicken for an aromatic finish.
  2. Lemon Wedges: Serve alongside for a touch of acidity to brighten the flavors.
  3. Shaved Parmesan: Add an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top for visual appeal and flavor.

Presentation Tips

  • Use Contrasting Colors: Serve the chicken on a dark plate to highlight the golden parmesan crust.
  • Arrange Side Dishes Artfully: Place sides neatly around the chicken to create a restaurant-quality presentation.
  • Drizzle with Sauce (Optional): If you have extra ranch dressing or a light cream sauce, drizzle a small amount around the plate for added elegance.

With these serving suggestions, your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken will become the centerpiece of an unforgettable meal.

Customizations and Variations

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is highly versatile, making it easy to adapt for various tastes and dietary needs. Below are some creative customizations and variations to try:

Different variations of parmesan-crusted chicken on a serving platter.

Customizing the Crust

  1. Spicy Parmesan Crust: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
  2. Herbed Crust: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning for an earthy flavor profile.
  3. Nutty Twist: Replace a portion of the breadcrumbs with crushed almonds or walnuts for added texture and nuttiness.

Dietary Adaptations

  1. Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly: Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly crust.
  2. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a safe and delicious alternative.
  3. Dairy-Free Option: Swap the parmesan cheese and mozzarella with dairy-free cheese alternatives like nutritional yeast or plant-based mozzarella.

Protein Alternatives

  1. Turkey Cutlets: For a leaner option, use turkey cutlets in place of chicken breasts.
  2. Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops can also work well, offering a juicier texture and a slightly different flavor.
  3. Tofu or Cauliflower Steaks (Vegetarian): For a vegetarian version, use thick slices of tofu or cauliflower. Season and prepare as you would the chicken.

Flavor Enhancements

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Before cooking, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 2–3 hours.
  2. Add Extra Cheese: Incorporate shredded cheddar or gouda into the creamy ranch layer for a richer taste.
  3. Zesty Touch: Add grated lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture for a refreshing tang.

Tips for Success

Achieving the perfect Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken involves attention to detail. Follow these expert tips to ensure success:

Perfecting the Chicken

  1. Even Thickness: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures consistent cooking and prevents dryness.
  2. Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Searing the chicken in batches, if necessary, avoids steaming and allows for proper browning.
  3. Use a Meat Thermometer: Checking the internal temperature ensures the chicken is cooked to perfection without overcooking.

Creating a Crispy Crust

  1. Press the Crust Firmly: Firmly pressing the breadcrumb mixture onto the ranch layer ensures it adheres well during baking.
  2. Broil with Care: Keep a close eye while broiling to prevent the crust from burning.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

  1. Skipping the Searing Step: Searing adds essential flavor and texture, so don’t skip it.
  2. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and delivers superior flavor compared to pre-shredded options.
  3. Overbaking: Overcooked chicken becomes dry, so remove it from the oven as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Troubleshooting

  1. Crust Falling Off: Ensure the creamy ranch layer is thick enough to act as a glue for the crust.
  2. Dry Chicken: If the chicken is too dry, serve it with extra ranch dressing or a light cream sauce on the side.
  3. Uneven Cooking: Use uniform chicken breast sizes and pound them to an even thickness to avoid undercooking or overcooking certain areas.

With these customizations and tips, you can tailor the recipe to suit any preference or occasion while ensuring consistent success.

FAQs

What is parmesan crust made of?

The parmesan crust is typically made of a mixture of grated parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and melted butter. These ingredients combine to create a flavorful, crispy topping that adds texture and richness to dishes like chicken. Some variations may include additional herbs like parsley or thyme, or a touch of lemon zest for added depth of flavor.

Does Longhorn Steakhouse have parmesan crusted chicken?

Yes, Longhorn Steakhouse offers parmesan-crusted chicken as part of its menu. It’s a popular dish featuring juicy, grilled chicken breasts topped with a creamy ranch dressing layer and a crispy parmesan crust. The restaurant’s version has become so beloved that many people attempt to recreate it at home using copycat recipes.

What can I use to coat chicken instead of mayonnaise?

If you prefer not to use mayonnaise to coat chicken, there are several alternatives:

  1. Sour Cream: Offers a creamy texture with a slight tang, perfect for creating a similar layer.
  2. Greek Yogurt: A healthier option that’s thick and creamy with added protein.
  3. Ranch Dressing: A flavorful and convenient substitute that pairs well with parmesan crusts.
  4. Cream Cheese: Slightly softened cream cheese works well for a richer, denser coating.
  5. Egg Wash: For a lighter option, you can use an egg wash (whisked egg) to help the crust adhere to the chicken.

What is the difference between chicken parmigiana and chicken parmesan?

Chicken parmigiana (often shortened to “chicken parm”) and chicken parmesan are essentially the same dish, with the names reflecting different regional terminologies. Both consist of breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella or parmesan cheese. The name “parmigiana” is more commonly used in Italian-American cuisine and reflects its origins, while “chicken parmesan” is a simplified name frequently used in American settings. The key difference lies in cultural nuances and presentation rather than the ingredients or preparation.

Conclusion

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a culinary delight that combines tender, juicy chicken with layers of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures. This dish, inspired by the popular offering at Longhorn Steakhouse, is both satisfying and versatile, making it a go-to option for home cooks looking to impress. With its straightforward preparation and endless customization possibilities, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced chefs.

Whether served as a centerpiece for a family dinner or as part of a sophisticated meal for guests, this dish always leaves a lasting impression. By following the step-by-step guide, incorporating tips for success, and tailoring the recipe to suit personal preferences, you’ll achieve a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen.

Ready to try this recipe? Gather your ingredients, heat up your oven, and enjoy the process of creating this crowd-pleasing dish. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides and share your experience with others!