Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

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Longhorn Steakhouse is famous for its delicious meals, and one dish that stands out is the Parmesan Chicken. This crispy, cheesy chicken is a favorite among those who love comfort food. It combines simple ingredients to create a dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you are cooking for your family or entertaining guests, Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken can win everyone over. This recipe will help you recreate that feeling of dining out right in your kitchen!

Why Make This Recipe

Making Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken at home is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare. You don’t need to be a master chef to make this recipe. With just a few steps, you can create a meal that is packed with flavor and looks impressive when served.

Second, this dish is versatile. It can be served for a weeknight dinner or dressed up for a special occasion. You can serve it with a side of vegetables, over a bed of pasta, or with a simple salad. It fits well with many sides, allowing you to create a complete and balanced meal.

Third, making this recipe at home is more cost-effective than dining out. You can make multiple servings for the price of one meal at a restaurant. Plus, you can control the ingredients, making it easier to cater to dietary preferences or restrictions.

Lastly, this recipe is perfect for cooking with your loved ones. Preparing meals together can be a fun and rewarding experience. Kids and adults alike can help out in the kitchen, making it a great bonding activity.

How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Preparing this dish involves a few simple steps. Let’s dive into the details so that you can make this delicious meal tonight!

Ingredients

To make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup ranch dressing
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to make some swaps and adaptations:

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
For a tangy twist, you can substitute ranch dressing with Greek yogurt.

Directions

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s go through the steps to create this delightful dish:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, you can prepare your baking dish.
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking and create a nice crust.
Rub the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning adds flavor to the chicken. Make sure to coat all sides evenly.
Place the seasoned chicken in the greased baking dish. Arrange them in a single layer for even cooking.
In a small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and panko breadcrumbs. Mix them well until they are evenly distributed.
Spread a thin layer of ranch dressing over each chicken breast. This will keep the chicken moist and add extra flavor.
Top each chicken breast with the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help it adhere. Make sure to cover the chicken well – this will help create that golden, crispy crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted, and the top should look golden and bubbly.
Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring that the chicken stays moist.
Serve this crispy, cheesy delight hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

When it comes to serving Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, the options are vast. Here are a few ideas to help you present this delicious meal:

With a Side of Vegetables: Pair your chicken with roasted or steamed vegetables. Broccoli, green beans, or a mixed vegetable medley complement the dish well.
On a Bed of Pasta: For a heartier meal, serve the chicken over cooked pasta. Drizzle some olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs or add a marinara sauce for an Italian twist.
With Salad: A fresh salad can balance the richness of the chicken. Consider a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a Caesar salad to tie in the flavors.
With Garlic Bread: For a complete Italian-inspired meal, serve the chicken with slices of garlic bread. This will help soak up any extra ranch sauce or juices.
For Special Occasions: Dress up the presentation with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a garnish of additional cheese. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley can also add a beautiful touch.

How to Store Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

If you have leftovers or if you’re making the chicken ahead of time, it’s important to know how to store it properly:

In the Refrigerator: Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to eat, you can reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps maintain the crispy texture. If using a microwave, be careful not to overheat it, as this can make the chicken rubbery.

Tips to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Here are some tips to ensure your Parmesan Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

Do Not Overcook: Keep a meat thermometer handy to check the internal temperature. Overcooked chicken can become dry. Aim for 165°F (74°C) for juicy chicken.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated cheese. Fresh cheese tends to melt better and have a richer flavor.
Experiment with Flavor: Feel free to add different spices to the chicken rub for a unique flavor profile. Paprika, Italian seasoning, or even a little cayenne can enhance the taste.
Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to sit after baking helps keep it juicy. Resting also gives the cheese topping time to set.
Customize the Topping: You can customize the cheese and breadcrumb topping according to your preference. Add herbs like basil or oregano for an aromatic touch.

Variation

This recipe can be easily modified to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some variations you might consider:

Buffalo Chicken Parmesan: For a spicy version, toss the ranch dressing with some buffalo sauce before applying it on the chicken.
Cheesy Spinach Chicken: Add a layer of cooked spinach on top of the ranch dressing before adding the cheese and breadcrumb mixture. This adds color and nutrition.
Parmesan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Fold in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the cheese mixture for a burst of umami flavor.
Herb-Infused Crust: Mix in some fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the breadcrumb mixture for additional flavor.

Each variation is a way to put your spin on this delightful dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. They will have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious. Adjust the cooking time if needed.

2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and toppings ahead of time, assemble everything, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. This makes for a quick weeknight dinner!

3. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Ensure that your breadcrumbs are also dairy-free.

4. Can I bake this in an air fryer?

Yes! You can place the assembled chicken breasts in an air fryer and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and the crust is golden.

5. What sides go well with this dish?

You can serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken with numerous sides such as mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, a green salad, or sautéed vegetables. Choose what you love!

This comprehensive guide should help you create a delicious Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken dish that your friends and family will enjoy. With simple steps and a few delightful variations, you can enjoy this restaurant favorite at home anytime!