easy Longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken recipe

Ever wondered how to make the Longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken recipe that everyone loves? What secret makes an ordinary chicken breast into a restaurant-quality dish everyone wants more?

I will share the ultimate parmesan chicken recipe that brings Longhorn Steakhouse magic to your kitchen. This crusted chicken breast is more than just dinner. It’s a culinary journey that combines crispy textures, rich flavors, and expert cooking techniques.

My recipe will show you how to make a dish that’s as good as a restaurant’s, but easy to make. You’ll learn how to pick the right ingredients and make a perfect parmesan crust. You’ll turn ordinary chicken into an amazing meal.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the authentic Longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken technique
• Learn professional cooking methods for perfect chicken every time
• Understand the importance of marinating and seasoning
• Master the art of creating a crispy, flavorful parmesan crust
• Save money by recreating a restaurant favorite at home

The Secret Behind Longhorn’s Famous Chicken Dish

I’ve discovered the secret to Longhorn’s famous chicken parmesan, which is loved by many across the United States. This dish is special because of its unique flavors and textures.

Longhorn’s recipe is what makes this baked chicken parmesan stand out. It combines tenderness, flavor, and a crispy texture in every bite.

• Perfectly marinated chicken breasts
• Rich, creamy cheese topping
• Crispy panko breadcrumb coating
• Perfectly balanced seasoning

Let’s talk about what makes this dish so great. The chicken is marinated for at least 2-3 hours. Each chicken breast gets special treatment with a mix of ranch dressing and Parmesan cheese.

This chicken parmesan has gotten 288 social media shares. It’s not just tasty but also healthy, with about 450 calories and 40g of protein per serving.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To make amazing parmesan crusted chicken tenders, you need the right ingredients. I’ll show you what makes a simple baked chicken recipe turn into a top-notch dish, just like Longhorn grill chicken parmesan.

Premium Cheese Selection

The cheese blend is the heart of this dish. I suggest using a mix of two great cheeses:

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup)
• High-quality Provolone cheese (1/2 cup)

This 1:1 mix gives a deep, rich flavor that makes the chicken dish stand out.

Marinade Components

A good marinade makes the chicken tender and juicy. My favorite marinade has:

• 1.5 cups Italian dressing
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Garlic powder

Breading and Coating Materials

The crispy outside is what makes this chicken special. Here’s what you need for the breading:

• 3/4 cup plain panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

These ingredients together make a golden, crispy crust. This crust keeps the chicken moist and adds amazing flavor. By choosing each ingredient carefully, you can turn a simple chicken dish into a restaurant-quality meal.

Preparing the Perfect Chicken Marinade

Creating a great parmesan crusted chicken begins with a flavorful marinade. This marinade adds amazing taste to every bite. I use special ingredients to make my chicken parmesan recipe stand out.

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

The secret to a fantastic panko-crusted chicken is its marinade. Mixing these ingredients creates a rich flavor that goes deep into the meat. The vinegar and lemon juice make the chicken tender. Garlic and Worcestershire sauce add a complex taste.

Marinating is key for the best flavor. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. But, an overnight marinade will make it even tastier. Just put the chicken in a sealed container or zip-lock bag, add the marinade, and refrigerate.

Pro tip: Always marinate in the fridge to keep the chicken safe and prevent bacteria. When you’re ready to cook, take the chicken out and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then, you’re ready to make your parmesan crusted chicken dish.

How to Properly Prepare Chicken Breasts

Starting with delicious chicken dinner ideas means mastering chicken breast preparation. As someone who loves easy chicken recipes for family, I’ll share key techniques. These will turn simple chicken into a meal fit for a restaurant.

Pounding Technique for Perfect Texture

The secret to tender, evenly cooked chicken is in the pounding. Here’s how to do it right:

• Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap
• Use a meat mallet or rolling pin
• Pound to a consistent ½-inch thickness
• Gentle, even strokes ensure uniform cooking

Strategic Seasoning Methods

Seasoning is key for chicken recipes that impress your family. My favorite method is:

1. Pat chicken dry with paper towels
2. Apply kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3. Use herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor

Marination Time Tips

Marinating can make your chicken dinner ideas amazing. Here’s what I recommend:

• Minimum marination time: 30 minutes
• Optimal flavor absorption: Overnight marination
• Use a mixture of olive oil and ranch dressing
• Refrigerate during marination to prevent bacterial growth

By using these techniques, you’ll make tender, flavorful chicken. It will quickly become a family favorite in your easy chicken recipe collection.

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

I’m excited to share a healthy chicken recipe that’s restaurant-quality. This cheese-crusted chicken turns ordinary chicken breasts into a delicious meal. It will impress your whole family.

This panko parmesan chicken recipe serves 4 people. It’s ready in about an hour!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup Italian dressing
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup ranch dressing
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Marinate Chicken: Soak chicken breasts in Italian dressing for 30 minutes overnight
2. Pound chicken to ½ inch thickness for even cooking
3. Preheat pan with olive oil
4. Sear chicken for 5 minutes per side until golden brown
5. Mix parmesan cheese with ranch dressing
6. Top chicken with cheese mixture
7. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs
8. Broil on low for 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and golden

This recipe gives you 35g of protein per serving. It makes a crispy, flavorful chicken dish that everyone will love. Remember, chicken should be cooked to 165°F for safety.

Nutrition Snapshot

Per serving, you’ll enjoy:

• Calories: 708 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 56g

Enjoy your restaurant-style chicken right at home!

Creating the Signature Parmesan Crust

Making the perfect parmesan crusted chicken breast needs focus and skill. The special crust turns a simple chicken dish into a top-notch meal.

Cheese Mixture Magic

Let’s make a tasty cheese mix for crispy parmesan chicken. The main parts are:

• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 3/4 cup combined Provolone and Cheddar cheese
• 6 tablespoons ranch dressing
• 2 teaspoons fresh garlic (minced or granulated)

Panko Topping Perfection

The panko topping is key for the best baked parmesan crusted chicken. Mix:

• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 5 tablespoons melted butter
• Pinch of additional garlic seasoning

The secret to a great crust is layering. First, spread the cheese mix on the chicken. Gently press the panko on top for a crispy layer that gets even better when cooked.

By doing these steps, you’ll make a parmesan crusted chicken breast as good as any restaurant’s. The mix of cheeses, ranch, and toasted panko will make your chicken unforgettable.

Cooking Methods and Temperature Guide

Learning to cook longhorn chicken parmesan is all about mastering different cooking techniques and keeping an eye on the temperature. I’ll show you the best ways to get that restaurant taste in your kitchen.

• Oven Baking: Preheat to 450°F, cook for 20-25 minutes
• Skillet Searing: 3-4 minutes per side, then finish in oven
• Air Fryer: Set to 375°F with varied cooking times

It’s key to track the temperature for the perfect parmesan encrusted chicken. The chicken needs to reach 165°F to be safe to eat. A meat thermometer is your best friend for getting it just right.

Remember, let your chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices spread out, making your meal juicy and full of flavor.

Pro Tips for Restaurant-Quality Results

Making the perfect panko-breaded chicken needs focus and care. I’ve mastered this easy chicken parmesan recipe. Now, I’ll share secrets to make your Italian chicken dinner as good as a restaurant’s.

Timing Secrets for Perfect Chicken

Timing is key when cooking your dish. Here are my top tips:

• Sear chicken for exactly 3-4 minutes on each side for a golden crust
• Keep an eye on the broiling to avoid burning the panko topping
• Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even skilled home cooks can slip up when making chicken parmesan. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

1. Don’t move the chicken while searing – it’s important for a good crust
2. Don’t overcook, as it can dry out the chicken
3. Make sure the panko breading is evenly spread for a consistent texture

By using these professional tips, you’ll turn your home-cooked meal into a top-notch Italian chicken dinner. It will surely impress even the pickiest eaters.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

When making my tasty chicken parmesan, choosing the right sides makes a big difference. The right sides can turn a good meal into a memorable one. It’s all about the balance and flavors.

After some research, I found some amazing side dishes that go great with cheesy baked chicken:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes
• Roasted Garlic Asparagus
• Fresh Garden Salad
• Al Dente Pasta
• Steamed Broccoli

I love mixing textures and tastes. A fresh garden salad cuts through the richness of the chicken. Roasted veggies add a nice depth to the dish.

Pro tip: Think about the nutritional balance when picking side dishes for your chicken parmesan. Adding a veggie side is a good idea to balance out the protein.

Want to try something new? Play with different herbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make your chicken parmesan your own.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Keeping your chicken parmesan recipe tasty means using the right storage and reheating methods. Whether it’s a favorite dish or leftovers, proper storage keeps the flavor and quality.

Proper Storage Methods

Here are the main tips for storing your chicken:

• Cool the chicken completely before storing
• Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss
• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking

Best Reheating Practices

To keep your chicken parmesan crispy, follow these reheating steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
2. Place chicken on a baking sheet
3. Cover loosely with aluminum foil
4. Heat for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F

Pro tip: Avoid using the microwave, which can make the crispy crust soggy.

By sticking to these storage and reheating tips, your chicken parmesan will stay as tasty as the first time you made it!

Love this recipe? Find more like it here!

• Easy Kielbasa and Potatoes Recipe with Chicken Broth
• How to make Chicken and Cabbage Recipes
• How to make Spicy Chicken Tenders
• 5 easy Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes

Conclusion

I’ve shown you how to make the tastiest cheese-crusted chicken recipe. It’s perfect for family dinners. These recipes are not just yummy. They also make your home cooking feel like a restaurant.

Learning to make this chicken recipe is all about the details. You need to marinate the chicken right, make a crispy parmesan crust, and cook it just so. Whether you grill, bake, or pan-fry, aim for tender chicken with a golden, tasty outside.

Cooking is all about trying new things and having fun. Don’t be afraid to change the recipe, try different cheeses, or add your marinades. This dish is great because you can make it your own. Share it with your family and make memories at dinner time.

With just 40 minutes of prep and cooking, you can turn simple chicken into a meal fit for a restaurant. It’s packed with 45g of protein per serving. Your family will love it so much, they’ll ask for it again and again!

FAQ

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for great flavor. For even better taste, marinate it for up to 4 hours in the fridge. But don’t marinate it for more than 8 hours, as it can make the chicken tough.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Use gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of regular panko. Also, make sure to use gluten-free flour for coating. Check that all ingredients are gluten-free.

What’s the best way to ensure the chicken doesn’t dry out?

To keep chicken moist, don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature. The marinade helps keep moisture in, and pounding the chicken evenly ensures it cooks well.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Marinate the chicken up to 4 hours in advance. Prepare the cheese and panko topping beforehand. Store the marinating chicken in the fridge and the topping in an airtight container until cooking time.

What side dishes pair well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

This dish goes well with roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli. It also pairs with garlic mashed potatoes, Caesar salad, or light pasta with marinara sauce. The crispy, cheesy chicken complements many sides.

How do I store and reheat leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust crispy.

Can I use chicken tenders instead of chicken breasts?

Definitely! Chicken tenders are a great alternative. They cook faster than full breasts, so adjust the cooking time.

What type of Parmesan cheese works best for the crust?

Use freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for the best flavor and texture. While pre-grated cheese works, fresh-grated cheese melts better and tastes more authentic.