Calories in Parmesan Crusted Chicken from Longhorn: Nutritional Breakdown & Tips

Introduction to calories Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn

Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken has gained a reputation for being both delicious and satisfying. It’s a favorite for those who enjoy a crispy exterior paired with tender chicken, all enhanced by the richness of Parmesan cheese. Understanding the caloric content and nutritional value of this dish can help you enjoy it without overindulging.

For a broader understanding of how to manage your calorie intake, you can visit this Understanding Daily Calorie Needs guide. It provides insights into how many calories you should consume daily based on your lifestyle and health goals.

Nutritional Overview of Parmesan Crusted Chicken

When it comes to dining out, particularly at establishments like Longhorn Steakhouse, it’s easy to get carried away with indulgent options. The Parmesan Crusted Chicken is no exception. But before diving into this dish, let’s take a closer look at its nutritional components.

1. Caloric Content

• The 9 oz serving of Parmesan Crusted Chicken contains approximately 650 calories.
• The larger 12 oz serving packs in about 1120 calories.

These figures show that while the dish is flavorful, it is also quite calorie-dense. This is something to keep in mind, especially if you’re managing your daily calorie intake.

2. Macronutrient Breakdown

• Fats: The dish contains a significant amount of fat, with the 9 oz serving providing around 36 grams of fat. The 12 oz serving contains approximately 55 grams.
• Proteins: One of the benefits of this dish is its high protein content. The 9 oz serving offers 68 grams of protein, while the 12 oz serving provides about 102 grams.
• Carbohydrates: The carbohydrate content is relatively low, with around 12 grams in the 9 oz serving and 16 grams in the 12 oz serving.

These macronutrients play a crucial role in determining how the dish fits into your overall diet. While the protein content is beneficial, the high fat content may be a concern for some.

For detailed nutritional information, you can refer to the Longhorn Steakhouse Nutritional Information PDF provided by the restaurant itself.

Calories in the 9 oz Parmesan Crusted Chicken from Longhorn

The 9 oz serving of Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the standard portion size offered at Longhorn Steakhouse. This portion provides 650 calories, making it a substantial meal on its own. Here’s a closer look at what those 650 calories consist of:

1. Breakdown of Calories

• Fats: The largest contributor to the caloric content is fat, which provides approximately 324 calories from 36 grams of fat.
• Proteins: Proteins are the second-highest contributor, offering around 272 calories from 68 grams of protein.
• Carbohydrates: The smallest contributor is carbohydrates, which provide 48 calories from 12 grams of carbs.

2. Comparison to Daily Caloric Needs

For someone on a 2,000-calorie diet, this dish alone accounts for about one-third of your daily calorie intake. Given the high fat and protein content, it’s important to balance the rest of your meals to avoid exceeding your calorie goals for the day.

3. Dietary Considerations

While the dish is rich in protein, which is beneficial for muscle repair and growth, its high fat content could be a concern for those trying to reduce their fat intake. Opting for a side of vegetables or a salad without heavy dressing can help balance the meal nutritionally.

Calories in the 12 oz Parmesan Crusted Chicken from Longhorn

The 12 oz serving of Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a larger portion and contains approximately 1120 calories. This version is typically chosen by those with a bigger appetite or those looking to share the dish.

1. Breakdown of Calories

• Fats: This serving size contains around 495 calories from 55 grams of fat.
• Proteins: The protein content is substantial, offering 408 calories from 102 grams of protein.
• Carbohydrates: Carbs contribute 64 calories from 16 grams of carbohydrates.

2. Impact on Daily Caloric Intake

For an individual consuming 2,000 calories per day, this single dish could account for over half of their daily intake. It’s a heavy meal that could potentially push your daily caloric intake over the limit if not balanced with lighter meals throughout the day.

3. Best Practices for Enjoying This Portion

Given the high caloric content, it’s advisable to either share this dish or save a portion for later. Pairing it with lighter sides such as steamed vegetables or a simple salad can help mitigate the caloric impact.

Macronutrient Breakdown of Parmesan Crusted Chicken from Longhorn

Understanding the macronutrient composition of the Parmesan Crusted Chicken is essential for those who are monitoring their intake of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.

1. Fat Content

• The dish is notably high in fat, especially in the 12 oz serving, which contains 55 grams of fat. This is more than the recommended daily fat intake for some individuals.
• The fats primarily come from the cheese and any butter or oil used in cooking, which contributes to the rich flavor and crispy texture of the dish.

2. Protein Content

• One of the benefits of this dish is its high protein content. The 9 oz serving provides 68 grams of protein, while the 12 oz offers a whopping 102 grams. It is an excellent choice for individuals seeking to boost their protein consumption.
• Nevertheless, the origin of the protein should be taken into account.While chicken is a lean meat, the addition of cheese and potential frying can add unnecessary fats.

3. Carbohydrate Content

• The dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with 12 grams in the 9 oz serving and 16 grams in the 12 oz serving. This makes it suitable for those on a low-carb diet.
• The carbohydrates primarily come from any breading used on the chicken and the Parmesan crust.

4. Sodium and Other Considerations

• It’s also important to note the high sodium content in this dish, which can be a concern for those monitoring their salt intake. The 9 oz serving contains approximately 1,860 mg of sodium, which is close to the daily recommended limit.

Balancing this meal with low-sodium options throughout the day can help manage your overall sodium intake.

How the Parmesan Crusted Chicken from Longhorn Compares to Other Dishes

To understand how the Parmesan Crusted Chicken fits into the broader Longhorn Steakhouse menu, it’s helpful to compare it to other popular dishes.

1. Renegade Sirloin

• Calories: A 6 oz Renegade Sirloin contains approximately 250 calories.
• Nutritional Value: It’s much lower in calories compared to the Parmesan Crusted Chicken, making it a leaner option. However, it’s also lower in fat and protein.

2. Grilled Chicken

• Calories: The Grilled Chicken dish at Longhorn contains around 490 calories.
• Nutritional Value: This option is lower in calories and fat but still provides a good amount of protein, making it a more balanced choice.

3. Flo’s Filet

• Calories: Flo’s Filet, an 8 oz portion, contains about 350 calories.
• Nutritional Value: This dish offers a balance of protein and lower fat content compared to the Parmesan Crusted Chicken, making it a lighter alternative.

4. The Parmesan Crusted Chicken’s Standing

Compared to these options, the Parmesan Crusted Chicken is one of the higher-calorie dishes on the menu. Its rich, indulgent flavor comes with a higher fat and calorie content, which is important to consider if you’re managing your diet.

For more information on how different dishes compare in terms of nutritional value, you might find this Tips for Eating Out Healthily resource helpful.

Is Parmesan Crusted Chicken a Good Choice for a Balanced Diet?

While the Parmesan Crusted Chicken is undoubtedly delicious, its high calorie and fat content make it a dish that should be enjoyed in moderation. Here’s how it can be incorporated into a balanced diet.:

1. Portion Control

• Consider opting for the 9 oz serving instead of the 12 oz to reduce calorie and fat intake.
• Sharing the dish with a friend or saving half for later can help you enjoy the flavors without overindulging.

2. Pairing with Lighter Sides

• Balance the richness of the dish by pairing it with a side salad or steamed vegetables. Avoid heavy sides like fries or mac and cheese, which can add to the calorie load.
• Choose a lighter dressing for your salad to keep the meal balanced.

3. Frequency of Consumption

• Due to its high fat and calorie content, it’s best to enjoy the Parmesan Crusted Chicken as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.
• On days when you indulge in this dish, consider eating lighter meals throughout the day to balance your overall calorie intake.

By being mindful of portion sizes and sides, you can enjoy this dish while maintaining a balanced diet.

How to Make a Lighter Version at Home

If you love the taste of Parmesan Crusted Chicken but want to enjoy it more frequently, consider making a lighter version at home. Here’s how:

1. Baking Instead of Frying

• Baking: Instead of frying the chicken, try baking it in the oven. Coat the chicken with a light layer of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then bake until crispy. This technique significantly reduces the fat content.
• Air Frying: If you have an air fryer, this is another excellent way to achieve a crispy crust without the need for deep frying.

2. Using Low-Fat Cheese

• Opt for low-fat Parmesan or a reduced-fat cheese blend. This substitution can reduce the calorie and fat content while still preserving flavor.
• You can also reduce the amount of cheese used, focusing on a thin, even layer that still provides that desired flavor.

3. Portion Control

• Make smaller portions by using thinner chicken breasts or cutting larger breasts in half. This helps control the calorie intake while still enjoying the dish.
• Serve the chicken with a generous side of vegetables or a salad to create a more balanced meal.

4. Adding Flavor Without Calories

• Use herbs and spices to add flavor without adding calories. Garlic, rosemary, thyme, and black pepper are excellent choices that complement Parmesan well.
• A squeeze of lemon juice before serving can also brighten the dish and add a burst of flavor without extra calories.

By making these modifications, you can enjoy a lighter version of Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home, making it a more frequent addition to your meal rotation.

For more ideas on similar dishes, you can explore Thin-Sliced Chicken Breast Recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About calories in Parmesan Crusted Chicken from Longhorn

1. How many calories are in Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

The caloric content of Parmesan Crusted Chicken depends on the portion size. The 9 oz serving contains approximately 650 calories, while the 12 oz serving has about 1120 calories. The majority of these calories come from fats and proteins, making it a calorie-dense dish that should be enjoyed in moderation.

2. How many calories are in Chicken Parmesan?

Chicken Parmesan is a similar dish that also features breaded chicken with cheese. The calorie content can vary, but on average, a typical serving contains around 700-900 calories. This depends on the portion size, the amount of cheese, and whether the dish is fried or baked.

3. How many calories are in Dana’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Dana’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken is another variation, often made with slightly different ingredients. The calorie content can vary, but it typically falls within the range of 600-800 calories per serving. This version might be lighter or heavier depending on the specific recipe used.

4. How many calories are in Longhorn Fries?

Longhorn Fries are a common side dish that pairs well with many of their main courses. A typical serving contains about 400-500 calories, depending on the portion size. When paired with the Parmesan Crusted Chicken, this can significantly increase the overall calorie count of your meal.

Conclusion

The Parmesan Crusted Chicken from Longhorn Steakhouse is a delicious and indulgent dish that’s perfect for those who enjoy rich, savory flavors. However, its high calorie and fat content make it a meal that should be enjoyed mindfully. By understanding its nutritional profile and making informed choices—whether by opting for smaller portions, pairing with lighter sides, or creating a lighter version at home—you can enjoy this dish without compromising your dietary goals.

For those who love the flavors but are conscious of their intake, consider trying the lighter at-home version or exploring different recipes that offer similar satisfaction with fewer calories. Remember, it’s all about balance and moderation.

By following these tips, you can savor the flavors of Parmesan Crusted Chicken while keeping your diet balanced and enjoyable.