If you’ve ever dined at LongHorn Steakhouse, you know their Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a fan favorite. The crispy, golden-brown crust combined with tender, juicy chicken makes it a standout dish. Fortunately, you can recreate this mouthwatering meal in the comfort of your own home with our easy-to-follow Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe. Impress your family or guests with this delicious dish that is both easy and full of flavor.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making this dish, offer tips for perfect results, and answer some frequently asked questions to help you make the most of this amazing recipe.
Ingredients for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Parmesan Crust:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, take the chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). This helps the chicken cook more evenly and ensures a juicy result.
Next, rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Set the chicken aside while you prepare the crust mixture.
Step 2: Prepare the Parmesan Crust
In a shallow dish or bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well incorporated. The melted butter helps the breadcrumbs crisp up beautifully, creating that signature golden crust.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Next, take each seasoned chicken breast and press it into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s fully coated on all sides. The combination of Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs creates a crispy, flavorful crust that will bring the dish to life.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil to the skillet and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown. This step helps lock in the flavor and moisture, giving the chicken that crispy exterior.
After searing the chicken, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is fully cooked through. Be sure not to overcook the chicken, as this can result in dry meat.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
While the chicken is baking, you can prepare the creamy sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it simmers and thickens slightly (about 4-5 minutes). If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
Step 6: Serve
Once your chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and plate it. Spoon the creamy sauce over the Parmesan crusted chicken and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of color. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Tips for the Perfect Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Chicken Breasts: Make sure to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are of similar size so they cook evenly. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat.
Crust Coating: Press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure the crust sticks well. A light coat of oil on the chicken will help the crumbs adhere and become crispy.
Cooking Temperature: Don’t skip the searing step! Searing the chicken on the stovetop before baking helps lock in the flavor and creates a nice crispy exterior. The oven finish ensures that the chicken is fully cooked without becoming dry.
Make it Ahead: You can prepare the Parmesan crusted chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This can be especially handy for meal prepping or making the dish for a dinner party.
For Extra Flavor: Feel free to add some lemon zest or fresh thyme to the crust mixture for an added layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.
2. What can I serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a simple Caesar salad. You could also serve it with pasta for a more indulgent meal.
3. Can I make the Parmesan crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Parmesan crust mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to a day. Just make sure to coat the chicken with it right before cooking.
4. How can I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven to maintain its crispy texture. Avoid microwaving it, as it can make the crust soggy.
5. Can I freeze Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked, breaded chicken breasts. Just assemble the chicken with the Parmesan crust mixture, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, bake the frozen chicken at 375°F (190°C), adding a few extra minutes of cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked.
6. What type of Parmesan cheese is best for this recipe?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides the best flavor and texture for the crust. Pre-shredded Parmesan can work in a pinch, but fresh is always preferable for maximum flavor.
7. Can I make the creamy sauce without heavy cream?
If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.
Now that you have all the details, you're ready to make your own Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home! With the perfect blend of crispy crust and juicy chicken, this dish is sure to be a hit. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a simple yet impressive meal that everyone will love.
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