Craving the irresistible combination of juicy chicken, creamy Parmesan cheese, and a delightful crunch? Look no further than Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken. But what if you could enjoy this restaurant favorite in the comfort of your own kitchen? Well, fret no more! This recipe breaks down the steps to recreate this dish at home, allowing you to indulge in restaurant-worthy flavor without breaking the bank.
Beyond the Recipe: Exploring Variations on a Theme
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Once you’ve mastered the basic technique, you can unleash your inner culinary artist and explore exciting variations:
Spice Up Your Life: Adding a Kick with Cajun Seasoning or Chili Flakes
For those who crave a touch of heat, infuse your marinade with a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning or a sprinkle of red chili flakes. This adds a zesty kick that complements the creamy parmesan cheese perfectly.
Herbivore Haven: A Vegetarian Take with Portobello Mushrooms
Love the concept but crave a vegetarian option? No problem! Substitute the chicken breasts with large portobello mushroom caps. Marinate the mushrooms as instructed, then sear them in the pan until softened. Follow the remaining steps to create a vegetarian parmesan crusted delight.
Cheesy Extravaganza: Experimenting with Different Cheeses in the Spread
The parmesan and provolone cheese combination creates a classic flavor profile. However, feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Gruyere cheese adds a nutty depth, while mozzarella offers a gooey, stretchy texture. You can even try a combination of cheeses to create your own unique flavor masterpiece.
Ingredients for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken
To embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- The Chicken Canvas: Stock up on 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, preferably around 5 ounces each.
- The Flavorful Marinade: Here’s where the magic begins. Grab a cup of your favorite ranch dressing (homemade or store-bought works wonders). Freshness is key, so squeeze the juice from half a lemon. Worcestershire sauce adds a touch of umami, so have 2 tablespoons ready. A third of a cup of extra virgin olive oil provides healthy fats and moisture. Don’t forget 1 teaspoon of garlic salt and a generous amount of black pepper for a flavor boost.
- The Creamy Parmesan Bliss: This is where the cheesy goodness comes in. Grate a cup of Parmesan cheese for a sharp and nutty taste. Four slices of provolone cheese will add a smooth and creamy element. Finally, you’ll need another quarter cup of ranch dressing (separate from the marinade) for the spread that will bind the cheesy goodness to the chicken.
- The Golden Crunch Brigade: No parmesan crusted chicken is complete without a satisfying crunch. Panko breadcrumbs, known for their airy texture, are the star here. Grab a cup and set it aside. Melted butter adds richness and helps the crumbs adhere to the chicken. Two tablespoons will do the trick. Garlic powder (or garlic salt, if you prefer) adds another layer of savory flavor. A teaspoon will be enough.
Optional Additions:
- Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of herbal freshness for garnish.
- Don’t forget to consider delicious sides! Mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables complement the chicken perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you’ve assembled your culinary arsenal, let’s embark on this flavorful journey!
Prepping the Chicken for Flavortown:
- Tenderize the Terrain: Grab a meat mallet or the back of a heavy saucepan. Gently pound each chicken breast to a uniform thickness of about ½ inch. This ensures even cooking throughout.
- Embrace the Marinade: In a shallow dish, combine the ranch dressing, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, garlic salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together to create a flavorful marinade. Nestle the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the deeper the flavor will be.
Searing the Chicken to Perfection:
- Heat Up the Pan: Once the chicken has marinated, heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil or your preferred cooking oil.
- Searing for Success: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Crafting the Dreamy Parmesan Spread:
- Cheese Heaven: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, provolone cheese slices, and the remaining ¼ cup of ranch dressing. Heat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently, until the cheese melts and forms a smooth, creamy sauce.
Assembling the Culinary Masterpiece:
- The Chicken Gets Dressed: Transfer the cooked chicken breasts to a baking dish or oven-safe casserole dish. Spoon the melted parmesan cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast, ensuring it’s well coated.
Showering the Chicken in Golden Goodness:
- The Panko Crown: In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and garlic powder. Mix well to create a golden crumb topping. Generously coat the parmesan-coated chicken breasts with the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres.
The Grand Finale: Broiling for a Crispy, Cheesy Delight
- Broiler Power: Preheat your broiler to high. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the baking dish under the broiler. Broil for 3-4 minutes, or until the panko topping becomes golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbly and melted. Keep a close eye on the chicken under the broiler to prevent burning.
Tips and Tricks: Elevating Your Longhorn Steakhouse Experience at Home
- Thickness Matters: If your chicken breasts are thicker than ½ inch, adjust the cooking time accordingly. They might need an additional minute or two per side during searing and under the broiler.
- Thermometer for Peace of Mind: Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure your chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Substitution Savvy: Don’t have all the ingredients on hand? No worries! You can substitute dried herbs like oregano or thyme for fresh parsley. If you don’t have ranch dressing, a combination of mayonnaise, buttermilk, and dried herbs can create a similar flavor profile.
- Plating Perfection: Elevate your dish by plating the parmesan crusted chicken on a bed of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
Conclusion
Making Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home is surprisingly easy and incredibly rewarding. This recipe allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality flavor without the hefty price tag. With a few simple steps and a touch of creativity, you can create a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and savor the taste of culinary success in the comfort of your own kitchen!
FAQs
1. Can I skip marinating the chicken?
Marinating the chicken infuses it with flavor and helps keep it moist during cooking. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating step. Just be sure to cook the chicken thoroughly to ensure its safe consumption.
2. What if my panko crumbs burn under the broiler?
The broiler cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on the chicken. If the panko crumbs start to brown too quickly, reduce the broiler heat slightly or move the baking dish further away from the heat source.
3. What can I serve with this dish?
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs beautifully with various sides. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, or a simple green salad are all excellent choices.
4. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, simply shred it and use it in place of the chicken breasts. Follow the remaining steps to assemble and broil the parmesan crusted goodness.
5. How can I store leftover parmesan crusted chicken?
Let the leftover chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
