How to Make Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken at Home
Table of Contents
Ever wanted that restaurant-quality longhorn parmesan crusted chicken but didn’t want to spend money eating out? I’ve been there too. The crispy, golden crust, the tender chicken, and that rich cheese sauce have been on my mind for years.
Today, I’m sharing the secret to making Longhorn Steakhouse’s favorite dish at home. This parmesan crusted chicken breast is more than a recipe. It’s a game-changer that will elevate your home cooking.
Imagine wowing your family with a meal that’s as good as a restaurant’s, but takes less than an hour to make. With the right ingredients and techniques, you’ll nail this dish. It’s all about crispy panko, rich parmesan, and perfectly cooked chicken.
Key Takeaways
- Recreate Longhorn’s signature chicken dish at home
- Achieve restaurant-quality results with simple ingredients
- Learn professional cooking techniques for perfect chicken
- Customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences
- Save money by cooking restaurant-inspired meals
Introduction to Longhorn Steakhouse’s Signature Chicken Dish
LongHorn Steakhouse is famous for more than just steaks. Their Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a hit with those looking for a tasty chicken option. Starting in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1981, the chain has changed casual dining with its creative menu.
History of the Recipe’s Popularity
The crispy parmesan chicken is a favorite at LongHorn Steakhouse. With over 563 locations in the U.S., it has many fans. People love its perfectly balanced flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Founded in 1981 in Atlanta
- Expanded to over 500 locations
- Achieved $2.5 billion in sales last year
What Makes This Dish Special
Your baked parmesan chicken at LongHorn is special. It has a mix of shredded Parmesan cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs. The secret seasoning makes the outside crispy and the inside juicy.
| Dish Characteristics | Details |
|---|---|
| Calories per Serving | Approximately 450 |
| Protein Content | 40g |
| Price Range | $15 – $20 |
Restaurant vs Homemade Version
Making crispy parmesan chicken at home lets you pick the best ingredients and flavors. You can try gluten-free breadcrumbs or low-carb options like crushed pork rinds.
“A dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to the dinner table” – LongHorn Steakhouse Customer Review
Essential Ingredients for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Making authentic italian parmesan chicken needs the right ingredients. These ingredients make the dish taste rich and savory. Your parmesan chicken recipe will be a hit with the perfect mix of fresh and quality parts.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (½ inch thickness)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated provolone cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
The secret to a great parmesan chicken recipe is the cheese mix. Using Parmesan, mozzarella, and provolone gives a deep, complex taste. This makes the dish stand out from regular chicken dishes.
“Great cooking is about ingredients and how you combine them.” – Wolfgang Puck
Ingredient Variations
| Dietary Preference | Ingredient Substitution |
|---|---|
| Low-Carb | Crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs |
| Gluten-Free | Gluten-free breadcrumbs |
Pro tip: For the best taste, use fresh cheese and top-notch breadcrumbs. Your homemade italian parmesan chicken will taste just like the restaurant version!
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make tasty parmesan crusted chicken tenders, you need the right tools. The right equipment makes cooking easier and helps you get restaurant-quality food at home.
Essential Cookware
Here are the must-haves for parmesan crusted chicken tenders:
- 9 x 13 inch baking dish
- Oven-safe skillet
- Meat mallet
- Mixing bowls (various sizes)
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Optional Equipment for Enhanced Cooking
These tools can make your parmesan crusted chicken tenders even better:
- Digital meat thermometer
- Kitchen tongs
- Silicone basting brush
- Parchment paper
- Wire cooling rack
Temperature Control Tools
Getting the temperature right is key for perfect parmesan crusted chicken tenders. Here are the tools you need:
- Instant-read digital thermometer
- Oven thermometer
- Heavy-duty oven mitts
“The right tools transform good cooking into great cooking” – Professional Chef Wisdom
| Tool Category | Recommended Item | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | Chef’s Knife | Precise chicken preparation |
| Measuring | Digital Scale | Accurate ingredient portions |
| Temperature | Instant Thermometer | Ensuring chicken safety |
Pro tip: Invest in quality tools that will last multiple cooking sessions and help you create consistent, delicious parmesan crusted chicken tenders every time.
Preparing the Perfect Chicken Marinade
Creating the ultimate parmesan chicken bake starts with a stellar marinade. This marinade turns ordinary chicken into a restaurant-worthy dish. Your marinade is the secret weapon that infuses incredible flavor and ensures tender, juicy chicken every time.
The ideal marinade for your parmesan chicken bake combines two key ingredients. These ingredients will elevate your dish:
- Italian dressing (for tangy flavor)
- Ranch dressing (for creamy richness)
“The right marinade can turn good chicken into an extraordinary meal.”
Marinating techniques are crucial for maximum flavor absorption. Here’s a breakdown of the perfect marinating process:
| Marinating Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration Time | 1 hour minimum, overnight optimal |
| Chicken Arrangement | Single layer for even coating |
| Marinade Ratio | ½ cup ranch dressing |
Pro tips for your parmesan chicken bake marinade:
- Use fresh chicken breasts at room temperature
- Ensure complete coverage with marinade
- Cover and refrigerate in a sealed container
- Pat chicken dry before cooking to achieve crispy exterior
Nutrition Insight: Proper marinating not only enhances flavor but can help tenderize the chicken. This makes your parmesan chicken bake more enjoyable.
Creating the Signature Parmesan Cheese Sauce
Making the perfect parmesan encrusted chicken sauce needs care and the right mix of ingredients. Your homemade cheese sauce will turn a simple chicken dish into a top-notch meal.
Cheese Blend Selection
The key to a great parmesan encrusted chicken sauce is choosing the right cheese mix. Your blend should have:
- Fresh Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Provolone for creamy texture
- Ranch dressing for tangy depth
Sauce Consistency Tips
Getting the sauce just right is key for your parmesan encrusted chicken. Remember these expert tips:
- Grate cheese at room temperature for smoother melting
- Whisk ingredients gradually to prevent clumping
- Use low heat when combining cheese components
Storage and Preparation
Right sauce prep means great taste and safety for your parmesan encrusted chicken.
| Preparation Step | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Store in airtight container for up to 3 days |
| Freezing | Freeze individual portions for 2 months |
| Reheating | Warm at 350°F for 5-7 minutes |
“The perfect sauce elevates a good dish to an extraordinary culinary experience.” – Professional Chef
Your parmesan encrusted chicken sauce is now ready to wow family and friends. It will impress with its rich, creamy texture and fancy flavor.
The Secret to the Crispy Panko Topping
Creating a crispy topping is key to a great longhorn parmesan crusted chicken. Panko breadcrumbs make it golden and crunchy. This turns a simple dish into something amazing.
Panko is better than regular breadcrumbs because it’s lighter and crunchier. It’s flaky, which means it gets super crispy when you make your chicken.
Panko Topping Ingredients
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
The secret is in the mix. Freshly grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor. Melted butter makes it all stick together and get crispy.
“Crispy perfection is an art form, and panko is the paintbrush.” – Culinary Expert
Preparation Techniques
- Mix panko, Parmesan, and garlic powder in a shallow dish
- Drizzle melted butter over the mixture
- Gently toss to ensure even coating
- Press the mixture firmly onto the chicken
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Topping Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oven Baking | 425°F | 15-18 minutes |
| Broiling | High | 3-4 minutes |
| Air Frying | 375°F | 10-12 minutes |
For the best crunch, don’t overcrowd the pan. Make sure it’s hot before cooking. This way, your chicken will have a golden, crunchy outside that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Making the perfect parmesan crusted chicken breast needs care and precision. This guide will show you how to turn simple ingredients into a top-notch meal at home.
Marinating Techniques
Marinating is key for rich flavors in your chicken. Start with Italian salad dressing as your marinade. Make sure the chicken is fully covered. Here are some marinating tips:
- Place chicken in a sealed container or zip-lock bag
- Refrigerate for minimum 2 hours, maximum overnight
- Turn chicken periodically to distribute marinade evenly
Cooking Temperature Guidelines
Keeping the right temperature is important for juicy and safe chicken. Follow these cooking tips:
- Preheat skillet to medium-high heat
- Cook chicken 4-5 minutes per side
- Achieve internal temperature of 165°F
- Rest chicken 3-5 minutes before serving
Broiling Instructions
Broiling gives your chicken that golden-brown crust. Preheat your oven to 475°F. Here’s how to do it:
- Position oven rack 6 inches from broiler
- Spread cheese and breadcrumb mixture evenly
- Broil 8-10 minutes until top is golden brown
- Watch carefully to prevent burning
Your homemade Longhorn-style parmesan crusted chicken breast is now ready to impress!
Achieving Restaurant-Quality Results at Home
To make restaurant-quality baked parmesan chicken at home, you need precision and insider tips. Professional chefs say the secret is mastering key techniques. These techniques turn a simple dish into a culinary masterpiece.
For the perfect baked parmesan chicken, focus on these key elements:
- Use high-quality ingredients, like fresh Parmesan cheese
- Keep cooking temperatures precise
- Pound chicken breasts to ½-inch thickness
- Make a perfectly crispy coating
Temperature control is key for top-notch results. Use a meat thermometer to check if your chicken hits 165°F (74°C). Pro tip: Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side before baking. This locks in moisture and gives a golden brown exterior.
“The difference between good and great cooking is often in the details.” – Culinary Expert
Your baked parmesan chicken’s coating is very important. Mix 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs, and 1½ teaspoons of garlic powder. This mix will make your home-cooked meal taste like it’s from a restaurant.
Cooking times are also crucial: Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes. This ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy inside. With these techniques, your baked parmesan chicken will be as good as any restaurant’s.
Perfect Side Dish Pairings
Choosing the right side dishes can make your crispy parmesan chicken meal special. It’s all about finding flavors and textures that go well with the chicken.
Here are some top side dishes that go great with crispy parmesan chicken:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Roasted Seasonal Vegetables
- Fresh Caesar Salad
- Garlic Butter Rice
- Steamed Asparagus
Here are some tasty pairings to highlight your crispy parmesan chicken:
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Preparation Time |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic Butter Rice | Creamy, Rich | 15 minutes |
| Roasted Asparagus | Light, Crisp | 20 minutes |
| Caesar Salad | Tangy, Fresh | 10 minutes |
For a memorable meal, balance is key. Your crispy parmesan chicken is rich, so pick sides that are light and fresh. A salad or steamed veggies can balance the chicken’s parmesan.
“The perfect side dish should complement, not compete with, your main course.” – Culinary Wisdom
Pro tip: Make sure your side dishes are ready at the same time as the chicken. Quick-cooking rice or roasted veggies are great with crispy parmesan chicken.
Tips for Storage and Reheating
Keeping your homemade italian parmesan chicken tasty and crispy is key. The right storage and reheating methods can make it last longer. This way, you can enjoy it days after you first make it.
Refrigeration and Freezing Guidelines
Storing leftover italian parmesan chicken is easy with the right steps. Here are some tips:
- Refrigerator storage: Up to 2 days maximum
- Freezer storage: Up to 2 months
- Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness
- Separate crispy topping from chicken to prevent sogginess
Optimal Reheating Strategies
Reheating your chicken right keeps it crispy and juicy. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Put the chicken on a baking tray lined with parchment
- Reheat for 15-20 minutes
- Check internal temperature reaches 165°F
“The key to great reheated chicken is maintaining its original moisture and crispiness.” – Professional Chef
Pro Storage Tips
| Storage Method | Duration | Recommended Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 days | Airtight container, separate crispy topping |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Wrap individually in freezer-safe wrap |
By using these storage and reheating tips, your homemade italian parmesan chicken will stay delicious and safe to eat.
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
Creating the perfect parmesan chicken recipe needs focus and avoiding common mistakes. Your aim is to make a dish as tasty as those from restaurants.
Here are the most critical mistakes to watch out for when preparing your parmesan chicken:
- Overcooking the Chicken: The most frequent error home cooks make is cooking chicken beyond the ideal temperature. Always use a digital meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F without drying out the meat.
- Improper Ingredient Selection: Not all Parmesan cheese is created equal. Opt for freshly grated block Parmesan instead of pre-shredded varieties, which often lack flavor and don’t melt as well.
- Skipping the Marination Process: Marinating for only a few minutes won’t infuse enough flavor. Aim for 20-30 minutes to enhance tenderness and taste.
“The difference between a good and great parmesan chicken recipe is in the details.” – Professional Chef
Temperature control is crucial in your cooking process. Maintain stovetop temperatures between 375-400°F when searing. For the oven, stick to 375°F to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust without burning the coating.
Preparation techniques can make or break your dish. Take time to:
- Pound chicken breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness
- Use a two-step coating process (flour, then egg wash, then breadcrumb mixture)
- Rest seasoned chicken for 10-15 minutes before cooking
A few additional pro tips for your parmesan chicken recipe: use Panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness, and don’t skimp on fresh herbs and seasonings. Garlic powder, dried basil, and black pepper can elevate your dish from good to extraordinary.
Conclusion
Making a perfect parmesan encrusted chicken dish at home is easier than you think. This guide gives you all the techniques and tips you need. You can turn your kitchen into a mini Longhorn Steakhouse and make a meal that will wow everyone.
To make amazing parmesan encrusted chicken, you need to know some cooking basics. Choosing the right ingredients and cooking at the right temperature are key. Remember, the more you make it, the better you’ll get.
Don’t be afraid to try new things and make the recipe your own. Whether it’s for a quick dinner or a big event, your homemade parmesan encrusted chicken will be a hit. It will be just as good as any restaurant version.
Are you ready to start cooking? Get your ingredients ready, follow the steps, and enjoy the tasty results of your cooking journey!
FAQ
What makes Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken different from other chicken recipes?
This dish is special because of its tasty marinade, creamy sauce, and crunchy panko crust. It’s not just another chicken recipe. It offers a restaurant-quality taste with a golden, cheesy outside and a juicy inside.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make it gluten-free. Just use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and make sure all ingredients are gluten-free. This way, you can keep the crispy texture while following dietary rules.
How long does it take to prepare Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
It takes about 45-60 minutes to prepare and cook. This includes 30 minutes for marinating, 15 minutes for preparation, and 15-20 minutes for cooking. Make sure to plan ahead for the best flavor.
What are the best side dishes to serve with this chicken?
Great side dishes are roasted veggies, garlic mashed potatoes, Caesar salad, or light pasta. These options complement the rich, cheesy chicken with their lighter flavors and textures.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can marinate the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Store the chicken in the fridge for up to 24 hours and the sauce for 2-3 days. But, for the best crispiness, cook the chicken just before serving.
What type of cheese works best for the parmesan crust?
Use a mix of freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and Romano cheese for the best taste. Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes richer than pre-grated cheese.
How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?
Marinating helps keep the chicken moist. Don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature without overcooking. The marinade and sauce also help keep it juicy.
Can I use chicken tenders instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Chicken tenders cook faster. Just adjust the cooking time, usually by 2-3 minutes, based on their thickness.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. This keeps it crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy and dry out the chicken.
Are there any dairy-free alternatives for this recipe?
You can use nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese instead of dairy cheese. Replace regular milk with dairy-free milk in the sauce. This way, you can enjoy the dish while following your dietary needs. The texture might be a bit different.