Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a juicy, flavorful chicken dish inspired by the popular restaurant. The chicken is coated in a delicious Parmesan crust and topped with a creamy, tangy Parmesan cheese sauce that makes it irresistible. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, bringing restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Parmesan Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Coatings: Set up a dredging station. Place the flour in a shallow dish. In another dish, whisk together the eggs and water. In a third dish, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip in the egg mixture, then coat with the Parmesan-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Sear Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Make the Parmesan Sauce
- Heat Cream: In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Add Butter and Seasonings: Stir in the butter, garlic powder, and onion powder, whisking until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Assemble the Dish
- Serve: Once the chicken is baked, spoon the Parmesan sauce over the top of each chicken breast. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Pound the Chicken: To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before coating them.
- Crispier Crust: For an even crispier crust, you can use a combination of panko and Italian seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Pre-grated Parmesan may not melt as smoothly.
Variations
- Herb-Crusted Parmesan Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning or fresh chopped herbs (like basil or parsley) to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Mozzarella-Topped Chicken: Add a slice of mozzarella cheese to each chicken breast during the last 5 minutes of baking for a melty, cheesy finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Mashed Potatoes: Serve the chicken over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious Parmesan sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus for a balanced meal.
- Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of pasta, such as fettuccine or linguine, for a hearty meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready to serve.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Parmesan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Parmesan Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken without the sauce. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How Do I Prevent the Chicken from Becoming Soggy?
To keep the crust crispy, avoid covering the chicken while it cools. Reheat in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain crispiness.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. Adjust the baking time as needed to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home. With a crispy Parmesan crust, juicy chicken, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a special dinner or just a weeknight meal, this Parmesan chicken is bound to impress. Gather your ingredients, cook, and enjoy this irresistible dish!
Happy Cooking!