Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken: A Family Favorite

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a deliciously crispy and cheesy chicken dish. This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken has become a staple in our household, and for good reason. The tender chicken breasts are coated in a crunchy Parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust, then baked to perfection and smothered in marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese. My family can’t get enough of this dish, often requesting it for special occasions and cozy weeknight dinners alike. It’s not just satisfying to eat; it’s also a delight to prepare, bringing a restaurant-quality meal to our table.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil

For Topping:

• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare Breading Stations
In three separate shallow bowls, set up your breading stations:

1. In the first bowl, place the flour.
2. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
3. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Bread Chicken Breasts
Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, dip it into the whisked eggs, letting any excess drip off, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to help the crumbs adhere well.

Step 4: Brown Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. This step adds a delightful crunch and locks in moisture.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the browned chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet. Spoon marinara sauce over each breast, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy this savory, cheesy delight!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 130mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve hot from the oven, garnished with fresh parsley.
• Pair with side dishes such as:
  • Garlic mashed potatoes
  • Steamed vegetables
  • A fresh green salad
  • Pasta with marinara sauce

Additional Tips

1. Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before breading.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: If available, use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
3. Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure the chicken has space while browning for a better crust.
5. Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving to keep it juicy.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Variation: Add a layer of provolone or cheddar cheese along with the mozzarella for a cheesy twist.
• Veggie Boost: Incorporate spinach or sliced mushrooms into the marinara sauce for added nutrition.
• Crispy Topping: Mix crushed crackers or cornflakes into the breadcrumb mixture for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• With Pasta: Serve over spaghetti or penne for a hearty meal.
• On a Bun: Turn this dish into a delicious chicken parmesan sandwich by placing the chicken on a toasted bun with additional marinara and cheese.
• As a Salad: Slice the cooked chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with vinaigrette.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the baked chicken tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use skin-on chicken breasts?
   • Yes, but it may alter the cooking time slightly.
2. What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
   • Regular breadcrumbs can be used, but panko gives a lighter, crispier texture.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the baking stage and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
4. What’s a good substitute for olive oil?
   • You can use vegetable oil or avocado oil as alternatives.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
   • Absolutely! Add sautéed bell peppers or zucchini for a more nutritious meal.
6. How do I know when the chicken is done?
   • The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
7. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
   • Yes, homemade marinara can enhance the flavor significantly.
8. What cheese can I substitute for mozzarella?
   • Provolone or fontina can be excellent substitutes.
9. How do I store leftovers?
   • Place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
10. Is this dish suitable for freezing?

• Yes, it freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings families together around the dinner table. With its crispy exterior, tender chicken, and rich flavors, it’s no wonder this dish has earned a place in our hearts. Easy to prepare and delicious to eat, this recipe is perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Whether you’re serving it to family or guests, you can’t go wrong with this crowd-pleaser. Enjoy cooking, and even more, enjoy the smiles around your table!

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