Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a dish that has gained immense popularity due to its rich flavors and satisfying texture. This dish combines the savory taste of seasoned chicken breast with a crispy, cheesy topping that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’ve enjoyed it at Longhorn Steakhouse or are trying it for the first time, this recipe will allow you to recreate that delicious experience in the comfort of your home.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. From selecting the best ingredients to mastering the cooking technique, you’ll be well-equipped to serve up a restaurant-quality dish that your family and friends will love. Plus, we’ll explore some variations to suit different dietary needs and preferences.
What Makes Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken So Special?
Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is renowned for its unique combination of flavors and textures. The chicken is tender and juicy, thanks to careful seasoning and cooking techniques. The star of the dish, however, is the Parmesan crust. Made with a mixture of Parmesan cheese, provolone, and a blend of seasonings, the crust provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the moist chicken underneath.
What sets this dish apart is the balance between the richness of the cheese and the lightness of the chicken. The cheese mixture is broiled to a perfect golden brown, adding a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
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Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating a dish as delicious as Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken starts with choosing the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These are easy to work with and cook quickly.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is essential for achieving the right texture and flavor. Avoid pre-grated options, which often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the final dish.
- Provolone Cheese: Provolone contributes a smooth, creamy texture to the crust. It melts beautifully and enhances the sharp flavor of the Parmesan.
- Ranch Dressing: Ranch dressing serves as a base for the crust, providing moisture and additional flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor. Panko breadcrumbs can be utilized to achieve an additional crunchiness.
- Seasonings: Basic seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Step-by-Step Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe Guide
1. Preparing the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with a blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This essential step enhances the chicken’s flavor throughout. If your chicken breasts are on the thicker side, you might want to pound them to achieve a uniform thickness. This technique promotes even cooking and helps maintain their juiciness.
Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Sear the chicken breasts for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they form a rich golden-brown crust. The goal is not to cook the chicken fully but to give it a nice sear that locks in the juices.
2. Making the Parmesan Crust
While the chicken is searing, you can start preparing the Parmesan crust. In a mixing bowl, combine the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, shredded provolone, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Add a few tablespoons of ranch dressing to the mixture, stirring until it forms a thick, cohesive mixture.
The ranch dressing acts as a binder, holding the crust together while adding a tangy flavor that complements the cheese. You can adjust the amount of dressing to achieve the desired consistency, but the mixture should be thick enough to spread without being runny.
3. Assembling the Dish
Once the chicken has been seared, transfer it to a baking dish. Spread a generous layer of the Parmesan crust mixture over each piece of chicken, pressing down gently to ensure it adheres well. The crust should cover the entire surface of the chicken, creating a thick, even layer.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the crust is golden and bubbling.If you prefer a crispier crust, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on the chicken during this time to prevent the crust from burning.
4. Serving the Chicken
Once you take the chicken out of the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that the chicken remains moist and flavorful. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness.
Serve the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken with your choice of sides. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad. The dish is also delicious with a wedge of lemon, which adds a bright, zesty contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and cheese.
For ideas on complementary side dishes, explore the Ultimate Side Dish Guide on Kinsley Recipes. This guide offers a variety of side dish suggestions that pair perfectly with this dish.
Variations of Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
One of the great things about Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is its versatility. Here are some variations to try:
Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly Version
To make a low-carb version of this dish, simply replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. These alternatives provide the same crispy texture without the added carbs. The rest of the recipe remains the same, ensuring that you can enjoy a delicious, low-carb meal that’s full of flavor.
Gluten-Free Version
For a gluten-free alternative, swap out traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that the ranch dressing and any other ingredients are also gluten-free. This version is perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-free diet.
Vegetarian Option
If you’re looking for a meatless alternative, try making Parmesan crusted eggplant or portobello mushrooms. These vegetables have a hearty texture that works well with the Parmesan crust. Prepare the vegetables in the same way as the chicken, then assemble and bake as directed.
Spicy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the Parmesan crust mixture. This will give the dish a spicy kick that complements the rich flavors of the cheese and chicken. Modify the spice level to match your preference.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages. Consider these pairing options to round out your meal perfectly:
Side Dishes
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the crispy Parmesan crust, creating a comforting combination.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with a tangy dressing is a classic pairing that balances the richness of the Parmesan crust.
Beverage Pairings
Given the richness of Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, it’s best to pair it with a refreshing beverage. Sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a chilled glass of iced tea works well. These drinks help cleanse the palate between bites, allowing you to fully enjoy the flavors of the dish.
Plating Tips
To make your dish look as good as it tastes, consider serving the chicken on a bed of mashed potatoes or alongside a vibrant green salad. Garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a polished presentation.
A lemon wedge on the side brings a splash of color and a refreshing burst of brightness.
Nutritional Information
While Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is undeniably delicious, it’s also important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Here’s a breakdown of the calories and macronutrients in a typical serving of this dish:
Calories and Macronutrients
- Calories: Approximately 500-600 calories per serving, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.
- Protein: The chicken provides a substantial amount of protein, typically around 30-35 grams per serving.
- Fat: The cheese and ranch dressing contribute to the fat content, which can range from 20-30 grams per serving.
- Carbohydrates: The breadcrumbs and any sides contribute to the carbohydrate content, usually around 10-15 grams per serving.
Healthier Substitutions
To lighten the dish, consider using less cheese or opting for a lighter dressing. You can also use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter crust, or bake the chicken instead of pan-searing it to reduce the fat content. These substitutions allow you to enjoy the dish with fewer calories and less fat, while still retaining its delicious flavor.
For more tips on making nutritious meals, visit the Nutrition and Cooking Tips . This resource offers advice on making smarter choices in the kitchen without sacrificing taste.
FAQs about Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
1. What is Parmesan Crusted Chicken made of?
Parmesan Crusted Chicken is made from boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are seasoned and topped with a mixture of Parmesan cheese, provolone cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, and ranch dressing. The chicken is first seared to lock in its juices, then baked with the cheese mixture until the crust is golden and bubbly.
2. How many calories are in the Parmesan Crusted Chicken from Longhorn?
The calorie content of Parmesan Crusted Chicken at Longhorn Steakhouse is approximately 600-700 calories per serving. This can vary depending on the portion size and specific ingredients used in the preparation.
3. How many carbs are in Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
The carbohydrate content in Parmesan Crusted Chicken is primarily from the breadcrumbs and any side dishes served with it. On average, the dish contains about 10-15 grams of carbs per serving. To reduce the carb content, you can use almond flour or another low-carb substitute for the breadcrumbs.
4. Does Outback have Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Outback Steakhouse does not have a direct equivalent to Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken. However, they do offer other chicken dishes that feature similar flavors and preparation methods. It’s always best to check the current menu for the most accurate offerings.
For a comparison of popular restaurant dishes, check out The Best Restaurant Dishes We Ate This Year – The New York Times (nytimes.com) . This guide helps you find similar dishes and make informed dining choices.
Conclusion
Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging in a restaurant-worthy meal at home, this recipe is bound to impress. By following the step-by-step guide and incorporating the suggested variations, you can create a dish that’s tailored to your tastes and dietary needs.
Remember, the key to success with this recipe is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and taking your time to prepare the dish with care. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, you’re sure to enjoy the rich flavors and crispy texture that make Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken so special.
For more tips on making delicious chicken dishes, visit Tips for Super Simple Marinara Sauce Recipe – Cookie and Kate. This resource will help you perfect the sauce, a key component of many chicken dishes.
With this guide, you now have everything you need to make a mouthwatering Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken that will impress anyone at your dinner table.