Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Brief overview of the recipe
Are you craving a dish that combines juicy chicken with a crispy, cheesy crust? Look no further than Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken. This delightful recipe captures the essence of the beloved restaurant dish and brings it right to your home kitchen. Imagine biting into a tender chicken breast coated in a savory mix of parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection.
What makes Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken unique
The Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken stands out due to its incredible flavor and mesmerizing texture. Unlike traditional fried chicken, this dish offers a delectable baked version that maintains the juiciness of the chicken while promising a crunchy, cheesy topping that keeps you coming back for more. Its rich taste, combined with a hint of herbs, creates a satisfying meal that is sure to impress your dinner guests or the family.
About Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Origin and popularity
Longhorn Steakhouse, a well-known casual dining chain, serves food inspired by cowboy culture and a passion for great barbecue. The Parmesan Chicken has become a signature dish, attracting both traditional steak lovers and poultry enthusiasts. People flock to Longhorn for its hearty meals, and the Parmesan Chicken is a favorite for its balanced meal component of protein, cheese, and a hint of herbs.
Signature taste and texture
The key to the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken lies in its harmony of flavors and its inviting texture. The chicken breast is juicy, while the crunchy parmesan and herb crust adds a delightful contrast. The combination of crispy breadcrumbs and creamy parmesan cheese delights the palate, making each bite a memorable experience. Whether served with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad, this chicken dish is a hit across age groups. It’s no wonder many diners seek to recreate this flavorful experience at home.
Why Homemade Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is Better
Control over ingredients
When you cook at home, you gain complete control over what goes into your dish. You select the finest ingredients, ensuring quality and freshness. Want to use organic chicken? Go for it! Prefer homemade breadcrumbs? That’s entirely up to you. This flexibility allows you to cater to personal tastes and dietary restrictions, without compromising on flavor.
The joy of cooking at home
Cooking at home is not just about the meal itself; it’s about the experience. From sharing stories and laughter in the kitchen to the joy of plating up your creations, homemade cooking fosters a sense of togetherness. The Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken provides an opportunity to engage with family or friends, combining the pleasures of cooking and sharing food.
Key Ingredients and Their Role in the Recipe
List of ingredients
Here’s what you will need for your delicious homemade Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Olive oil or melted butter, for drizzling
Importance and character of each ingredient
- Chicken Breasts: The star of this dish, juicy and tender, serve as the perfect canvas.
- Buttermilk: This tangy milk not only helps tenderize the chicken but also infuses a subtle flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs offer an extra crunch, elevating the texture of the finished dish.
- Parmesan Cheese: The hero ingredient, providing rich flavors that meld beautifully with the chicken.
- Italian Seasoning & Garlic Powder: These essential herbs and spices create an aromatic backdrop to your dish, enhancing the overall taste.
- Olive Oil or Butter: Adds richness, promoting a deliciously crispy topping.
Suitable substitutes for some ingredients
Don’t have buttermilk? You can make a quick substitute by combining regular milk with lemon juice or vinegar—allow it to sit for 10 minutes to curdle. Prefer to use a different cheese? Go ahead and experiment! Mozzarella creates a milder flavor but melts beautifully. Give it a try! If you’re watching carbs, opt for almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a low-carb option.
Detailed Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Preparing the ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure your kitchen workspace is clean, and you have everything accessible. This will streamline the cooking process. Also, remember to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for your chicken.
Marinating and preparing the chicken
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them.
- Toss to ensure all pieces are coated, cover with plastic wrap, and let this marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight if you have the time). The longer, the better!
- Prepare the Coating:
- In another bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Cooking process
- Coat the Chicken:
- Once marinated, remove the chicken breasts from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Dip each piece into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
- Arrange in a Baking Dish:
- Place the coated chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the top of each piece to encourage browning.
- Bake:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and the coating is golden brown.
- Final Touches:
- For an extra crispy topping, consider broiling the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Serving suggestions
Serve your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, a composite of greens, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness to your plate. Pair it with a glass of white wine for a delightful dining experience.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Best practices for marination
- Timing: The longer the chicken marinates in buttermilk, the more tender it becomes. Aim for at least 30 minutes but overnight is ideal.
- Temperature: Always ensure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking for more even cooking.
Tips for cooking the chicken to perfection
- Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t crowd the baking dish. Give each chicken breast enough space for even heat distribution.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is not undercooked or overcooked, achieving the perfect juicy texture.
How to achieve the signature cheesy crust
- Quality Ingredients: Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as well!
- Broil for Extra Crispness: As mentioned, turn on the broiler for the last couple of minutes for a perfectly crispy crust.
Common Issues and How to Solve Them
Chicken not sufficiently cooked
- Solution: Use a meat thermometer. Remember, chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If not, simply return them to the oven for additional time.
Cheese not melting properly
- Solution: Ensure you’re using fresh grated parmesan and not the powdered stuff for the best melt and flavor. If needed, cover the chicken loosely with aluminum foil to help retain heat and moisture.
Ingredients proportion imbalance
- Solution: Always follow the measurements outlined in the recipe. If you’re experimenting with different herbs or cheeses, start small and adjust to taste.
FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for this recipe due to their moisture and tenderness. However, boneless thighs can be an excellent alternative if you prefer dark meat.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While parmesan cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other varieties such as mozzarella for added creaminess, or a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor.
Is this dish suitable for kids and individuals on a diet?
This dish can be adapted for kids by ensuring the seasoning is mild. It’s also a great protein option for those on a diet, especially if paired with healthy sides like steamed broccoli or a fresh salad.
Can this dish be made in advance and frozen?
Yes! You can prepare the marinated chicken and coating, then freeze unbaked chicken with the coating on. When ready to cook, simply bake them from frozen, increasing the cooking time slightly to ensure it reaches the right temperature.
Conclusion
The comforting experience of enjoying homemade Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken can elevate your dining experience. With quality ingredients and a few simple steps, you can recreate this cherished dish in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients and get ready to impress with this incredibly delicious recipe!
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Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: gluten-free
Description
A delightful recipe capturing the essence of Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Chicken, featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy, cheesy crust.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 cup buttermilk, 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko), 1 cup grated parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, Salt and pepper, to taste, Fresh parsley, for garnish, Olive oil or melted butter, for drizzling
Instructions
Gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)., Marinate the chicken by placing the chicken breasts in a large bowl and pouring the buttermilk over them. Toss to coat, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes., Prepare the coating by mixing together the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper in another bowl., Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, and dip each piece into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat., Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a greased baking dish and drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the top., Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and the coating is golden brown., For an extra crispy topping, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
Notes
Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor. You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cool Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: main course
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: chicken, parmesan, baked chicken, Longhorn Steakhouse, comfort food