Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Restaurant meals were a big deal in my family when I was growing up. The Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken was our favorite. It made simple dinners feel like a special treat.

This dish is all about the perfect mix of a crispy, cheesy crust and juicy chicken. It’s easy to make, whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or just starting out. This recipe brings restaurant-quality taste right to your home.

Key Takeaways

• Easy to prepare restaurant-style chicken at home
• Requires only basic ingredients
• Perfect for family dinners and gatherings
• Customizable with different seasonings
• Can be prepared in under an hour

What is Longhorn Parmesan Chicken?

Explore the tasty world of Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Chicken. It’s a favorite copycat recipe loved by many home cooks. This dish turns a simple chicken breast into a gourmet delight, bringing restaurant flavors to your home.

Overview of the Dish

The Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is a tasty mix of tender chicken and a crispy, cheesy crust. It’s a chicken breast, seasoned and marinated, then topped with parmesan and panko breadcrumbs. This recipe brings the Longhorn Steakhouse favorite to your kitchen.

Ingredients Typically Used

• Chicken breasts (pounded thin)
• Parmesan cheese
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Ranch dressing
• Olive oil
• Worcestershire sauce
• Garlic
• Seasonings

Popularity and Origins

This dish is loved for its amazing flavors and textures. It started on the Longhorn Steakhouse menu and is now a hit with home cooks. It features:

1. Perfectly marinated chicken
2. A crispy parmesan crust
3. Buttery panko topping
4. Robust seasonings

It’s quick to prepare, with just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking. It serves four and is packed with flavor. With about 555 calories per serving, it’s a nutritious and tasty choice.

Key Ingredients in the Recipe

To make the best parmesan chicken for family dinners, pick the right ingredients. Each one adds flavor and texture. Knowing their roles will help you make a meal everyone will enjoy.

Selecting the Right Chicken

Your parmesan chicken begins with top-notch boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Choose fresh, even-sized breasts for even cooking and flavor. Go for 4 breasts that are the same thickness for the best results.

Cheese: The Flavor Foundation

Cheese is key in your parmesan chicken. Mixing two types adds depth and richness:

• Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, finely chopped
• Provolone cheese: 1/2 cup, finely chopped

Breadcrumbs and Seasonings

The crispy outside of your dish comes from the right breadcrumbs and seasonings:

Essential Marinade Components

A tasty marinade makes your chicken stand out. The main liquids are:

• Olive oil: 1/3 cup
• Ranch dressing: 1/3 cup
• Worcestershire sauce: 2 tablespoons

Pro tip: Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes. But marinating overnight will make the flavors even richer for your family dinners.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Making the perfect Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is all about preparation. It turns simple baked chicken into a dish that will wow your family.

Preparing the Chicken

Begin with top-notch boneless skinless chicken breasts. Use a meat tenderizer to pound them to 1/2-inch thickness. This step ensures they cook evenly and stay tender.

• Choose 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Pound to 1/2-inch thickness
• Season with salt and pepper

Dredging Process

The dredging step is key for that crispy outside. Mix Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and seasonings for a tasty coating.

1. Mix 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese with 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2. Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder
3. Dip chicken in melted butter
4. Coat thoroughly with cheese mixture

Baking vs. Frying

For a healthier option, baking is best. It cooks the chicken evenly, keeping it moist and crispy.

Remember, always check the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F. Your baked chicken will be juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time!

Tips for Perfectly Baked Parmesan Chicken

Making the best baked parmesan chicken needs focus and care. You want to turn a simple chicken breast into a crispy, tasty dish that wows everyone.

Achieving the Right Texture

Getting the right texture for baked chicken is an art. To get a crispy outside and a juicy inside, follow these steps:

• Pound chicken breasts to an even 1/2 inch thickness
• Use panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunchiness
• Coat chicken generously with parmesan cheese mixture

Cooking Time Recommendations

Timing is key when making parmesan chicken. Here’s a detailed breakdown of cooking times:

Important Temperature Checks

Food safety is crucial when baking chicken. Always check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. This ensures it’s fully cooked and stays juicy.

Pro tip: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps keep the juices in, making your parmesan chicken even better.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Copycat recipes like Longhorn Parmesan Chicken are great for family dinners. You can use different cooking methods to make a tasty meal. This depends on what you have in your kitchen and what you like.

Trying out different cooking ways lets you adjust the recipe to fit your needs. You can keep the chicken crispy and flavorful.

Air Fryer Option

The air fryer is a quick and healthier way to make Parmesan chicken. Here’s how to do it:

• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F
• Place breaded chicken in a single layer
• Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway
• Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F

Grilling for a Smoky Flavor

Grilling gives your chicken a smoky taste. Here are some tips:

• Preheat grill to medium-high heat
• Grill chicken for 12-15 minutes
• Turn every 4-5 minutes
• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness

Stovetop Cooking Tips

For stovetop cooking, follow these steps:

• Use a heavy-bottomed skillet
• Heat oil to medium-high temperature
• Sear chicken 4-5 minutes per side
• Finish in a preheated 400°F oven

Pro tip: No matter the method, make sure your chicken is at least 165°F. This ensures it’s juicy and perfect.

Sides That Pair Well with Parmesan Chicken

Creating the perfect family dinner means picking the right sides for your Parmesan chicken. The right dishes can turn a simple meal into a memorable experience.

Classic Side Dishes That Shine

Your Parmesan chicken needs delicious sides to match. Here are some classic options that will make your family dinners special:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Steamed broccoli with garlic butter
• Roasted asparagus with parmesan sprinkle
• Buttered corn kernels

Fresh Salad Pairings

Light salads can balance the richness of Parmesan chicken, making a complete meal:

• Caesar salad with homemade croutons
• Mixed green salad with vinaigrette
• Arugula salad with lemon dressing
• Caprese salad with fresh basil

Perfect Pasta Companions

Pasta is a great side for your Longhorn steakhouse-inspired dish. Here are some popular choices:

Try these pairings to make family dinners that wow everyone. The secret is to mix flavors and textures for a memorable taste.

Dietary Modifications for the Recipe

Making a tasty parmesan chicken for everyone can make family dinners special. It’s great for those with food sensitivities or following certain diets. These tips will help you enjoy this classic dish.

Gluten-Free Alternatives

It’s simple to make your parmesan chicken gluten-free. Try these changes:

• Use gluten-free panko or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs
• Try cornstarch for dredging instead of wheat flour
• Make sure all seasonings are gluten-free

Dairy-Free Adjustments

For family dinners without dairy, try these swaps:

• Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste
• Use dairy-free cheese made from cashews or almonds
• Swap buttermilk with unsweetened almond milk and apple cider vinegar

Low-Carb Versions

Keto and low-carb fans can enjoy this dish with smart choices:

• Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for a crispy coating
• Choose almond flour over traditional breading
• Lower carbs by avoiding sugary marinades

Pro tip: Always read ingredient labels carefully and consult with a nutritionist if you have specific dietary concerns.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Keeping your Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken fresh for family dinners is key. You need to store and reheat it right. This way, your meal stays delicious and safe to eat.

Best Practices for Storage

After you’ve enjoyed your meal, put leftovers in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Here’s how to store it:

• Cool the chicken completely before storing
• Use a sealed container to prevent moisture loss
• Place in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking

Reheating Techniques

When reheating your Parmesan Chicken, aim to keep it crispy. This is important for family dinners.

Freezing the Dish

You can also freeze your Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and put them in a freezer-safe container. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months.

To thaw, move the chicken to the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it until it’s hot all the way through. Make sure it reaches 165°F for food safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Preparing the perfect copycat recipes can raise several questions. This section addresses the most common inquiries about making delicious parmesan chicken at home.

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead?

While chicken breasts are traditional, you can absolutely substitute chicken thighs in this copycat recipe. Chicken thighs offer a more robust flavor and tend to be juicier. Keep in mind that cooking times might need slight adjustments:

• Thighs typically require 20-25 minutes of baking
• Internal temperature should reach 165°F
• Thickness of the meat impacts cooking duration

How Can I Enhance the Flavor?

Elevating your parmesan chicken is easier than you might think. Consider these flavor-boosting techniques:

1. Marinate chicken in Italian dressing for 2-4 hours
2. Use fresh grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded
3. Add herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture

What’s a Good Sauce to Accompany It?

The right sauce can transform your copycat parmesan chicken. Here are some delectable options:

Pro tip: Experiment with different sauces to find your personal favorite combination with this versatile dish!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken for family dinners needs focus. Knowing common mistakes helps you get it right in your kitchen.

There are a few big challenges when cooking this dish. These can make or break your meal. Let’s look at the most common mistakes home cooks face.

Avoiding Dry Chicken Disaster

Overcooking is the biggest problem for juicy chicken. Here are some tips to keep your chicken moist:

• Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature
• Remove chicken from heat when it reaches 160°F
• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain moisture

Seasoning: The Flavor Foundation

Not seasoning well can make your meals taste bland. To add flavor, remember:

• Use fresh garlic powder
• Mix spices thoroughly with breadcrumbs
• Add a pinch of paprika for depth

Choosing the Right Cheese

Not all cheeses are good for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken. Choose wisely:

Avoiding these mistakes makes your Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken amazing. You’ll have great family dinners every time.

Final Thoughts on the Copycat Recipe

Making the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken at home is more than a meal. It’s a journey in cooking creativity. This recipe lets you enjoy restaurant-quality food in your kitchen, saving money.

Why It’s a Family Favorite

People love this dish because it turns a simple chicken breast into a fancy meal. It only takes 55 minutes to prepare, serving four people. Each serving has 35 grams of protein.

Making It Your Own

Your version of the recipe lets you get creative. Swap Parmesan for Swiss or Mozzarella cheese. Try different breadcrumbs, like pork rinds for a keto option. This recipe is all about making it your own.

Encouragement to Try the Recipe

Don’t worry if you’re new to cooking like a restaurant. This Longhorn Steakhouse recipe is easy for anyone. With simple ingredients and clear steps, you’ll make a meal that’s just as good as any steakhouse. Start cooking and enjoy making your favorite restaurant dishes at home!