Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Longhorn Steakhouse is famous for its mouthwatering steaks, savory appetizers, and hearty entrees. One of the standout dishes on their menu is the Parmesan Crusted Chicken, a perfectly pan-seared chicken breast coated in a crunchy Parmesan and herb crust, often served with a rich, creamy sauce. The combination of crispy chicken with a creamy, savory sauce is a satisfying treat for anyone who loves bold flavors and comforting textures.

Preparation:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken breasts. The key to achieving a tender, juicy chicken breast is to ensure it is cooked properly and evenly. For this recipe, you will need to create an even surface for the Parmesan crust to adhere to.

1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. If the chicken breasts are too thick, they might cook unevenly, leading to dry parts while others are undercooked. To prevent this, place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a large zip-lock bag and use a meat mallet to gently pound them to about ½ to ¾ inch thickness. This step helps to tenderize the chicken as well.

2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides. This basic seasoning ensures that the chicken is flavorful all the way through.

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3. Set up a breading station. In three shallow dishes, place the following:

   • Flour: In the first dish, add flour and season it lightly with salt and pepper.

   • Egg wash: In the second dish, beat the eggs well. This will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.

   • Breadcrumb mixture: In the third dish, combine Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Panko breadcrumbs will give the crust a nice, light crunch, while the Parmesan adds a savory, cheesy flavor.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

To give the chicken a flavorful, crispy crust, follow these steps:

1. Dredge the chicken in the flour, ensuring that each piece is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.

2. Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, making sure it is completely covered in the egg mixture. Let any excess egg drip off.

3. Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs and Parmesan adhere well to the surface of the chicken. The Panko breadcrumbs will create that crispy texture, while the Parmesan will add a rich, cheesy crust. Repeat for all four chicken breasts.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to cook the chicken to golden perfection. This part of the recipe requires careful attention to heat, as you want to achieve a crispy crust without overcooking the chicken inside.

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Allow the oil to heat up but not smoke. The goal is to create a crispy crust without burning the breadcrumbs.

2. Cook the chicken breasts in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If your skillet is small, cook the chicken in batches. Pan-sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. The crust should be a deep, golden color.

3. Check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Once the chicken reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. You can tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm.

4. Finish with butter: For extra flavor, add a small pat of butter to the skillet and let it melt. Once melted, drizzle the butter over the chicken for added richness.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

While the chicken rests, it’s time to make the creamy Parmesan sauce that will elevate the dish. This sauce is rich, velvety, and full of flavor.

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

2. Add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the saucepan, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes.

3. Once the cream has thickened a bit, stir in the Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your preference.

4. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a small amount of cornstarch or flour with water to make a slurry and stir it into the sauce. Allow it to simmer for another 1-2 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Now that your chicken is perfectly cooked and your creamy Parmesan sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the dish.

1. Place the chicken breasts on serving plates. You can serve them whole or slice them into strips, depending on your preference.

2. Spoon the creamy Parmesan sauce generously over the chicken. The rich, creamy sauce will soak into the crust, enhancing the flavors while keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.

3. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.

4. For a complete meal, serve the Parmesan Crusted Chicken with your favorite sides, such as garlic mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic and butter are a classic pairing for this rich, crispy chicken. The smooth texture of the potatoes complements the crunchy chicken and creamy sauce beautifully.

2. Roasted Vegetables:

Roasted vegetables like carrots, brussels sprouts, broccoli, and zucchini add a healthy and colorful contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs before roasting them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

3. Fresh Salad:

A light, refreshing green salad with arugula, spinach, mixed greens, or a simple Caesar salad can help balance the richness of the chicken. Dress the salad with a light vinaigrette to keep it fresh and vibrant.

4. Pasta:

A bowl of spaghetti or fettuccine alfredo makes a delicious pairing with the Parmesan Crusted Chicken. The rich sauce from the chicken pairs beautifully with creamy pasta, offering a hearty meal that’s perfect for special occasions.

5. Steamed Asparagus:

Steamed asparagus, drizzled with a little butter and sprinkled with lemon zest, provides a fresh, slightly crisp side that complements the richness of the chicken and its creamy sauce.

Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

1. Chicken Breast Thickness:

For even cooking, make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures that the chicken cooks through without overcooking the exterior while leaving the inside undercooked.

2. Proper Crusting:

Press the breadcrumbs into the chicken well to ensure a thick, crunchy crust. The combination of Panko and Parmesan creates an excellent balance of texture and flavor.

3. Use Fresh Parmesan:

Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Pre-grated Parmesan often lacks the depth and richness found in fresh Parmesan.

4. Keep the Chicken Juicy:

To ensure that the chicken stays moist and tender, don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.

5. Sauce Variations:

Feel free to customize the sauce to your taste. Add a splash of white wine for extra depth, or incorporate mushrooms for an earthy flavor. You could also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Conclusion:

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy, tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce. The Parmesan crust provides a satisfying crunch, while the creamy sauce adds luxurious depth and flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just craving a comforting meal, this dish will surely be a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s full of flavor and texture.