Introduction
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that showcases juicy chicken breasts topped with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. This restaurant-inspired recipe brings the flavors of the steakhouse right to your kitchen, making it perfect for special occasions or a comforting family dinner. The combination of cheese, herbs, and a hint of garlic creates a savory flavor that elevates the chicken. Serve it with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Why It’s Great
This Parmesan Chicken recipe is great for several reasons. The tender chicken breasts are complemented by a creamy sauce that is both flavorful and easy to prepare. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a delicious depth, making each bite rich and satisfying. It’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from pasta to steamed vegetables, and it’s sure to impress your family and guests without requiring a lot of effort in the kitchen.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness (about 1 inch).
- Set Up Breading Station: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In another dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then coat it in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from heat.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and mozzarella cheese. Pour the sauce over the browned chicken in the skillet.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C) and the sauce is bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Storing and Preserving
Leftover Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
- Soggy Coating: Ensure that the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; frying in too-cool oil can make the coating soggy.
- Overcooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Too Much Sauce: If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a little chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Uneven Browning: Fry in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can prevent even cooking.
- Flavor Issues: Adjust the seasoning in the flour mixture and sauce according to your taste preferences for a more flavorful dish.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used; just ensure they are cooked to the proper internal temperature. - What can I serve with Parmesan chicken?
This dish pairs well with pasta, steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. - Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. - How can I make this dish lighter?
Consider using less heavy cream and substituting with milk or a lighter cream alternative, and use less cheese. - Can I bake the chicken without frying it first?
Yes, you can skip the frying step and bake the breaded chicken directly, but the texture may be slightly different.
Conclusion
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a deliciously creamy and cheesy dish that brings a taste of the steakhouse to your home kitchen. With its easy preparation and rich flavors, it’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. This recipe will impress your family and friends, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the comforting taste of this Parmesan chicken with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that everyone will love!
