Introduction
Have you ever craved the savory delight of restaurant-style chicken without leaving your home? This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken brings the rich flavors and crispy textures right to your kitchen. The golden crust combined with tender chicken creates a mouthwatering experience that’s simply irresistible.
Imagine biting into a juicy piece of chicken topped with an exquisite blend of parmesan cheese and seasonings. This dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. Get ready for an incredible flavor journey that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Delicious Flavor Combination: This dish features a fantastic blend of seasoning and cheese that creates an unforgettable taste experience. The combination of parmesan and crispy breadcrumbs enhances the natural flavor of the chicken, making each bite truly satisfying.
Quick and Easy Preparation: You don’t need culinary skills to whip up this delightful dish. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can prepare it in under an hour. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something delicious.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this recipe. Its crispy exterior and juicy interior make it a hit at the dinner table. Plus, it pairs well with various sides, catering to everyone’s preferences.
Healthier Than Restaurant Options: By making this dish at home, you control the ingredients and portion sizes. This way, you can enjoy the same great taste as in restaurants but with healthier choices tailored to your family’s needs.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts; they should be uniform in size for even cooking.
- Parmesan Cheese: Opt for freshly grated parmesan for better flavor and texture.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These provide that extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Garlic Powder: Adds depth of flavor; fresh garlic can also be used if preferred.
- Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme enhances the overall taste profile.
- Eggs: Used as a binder for the breadcrumb coating.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
Prepare the Breading Mixture: In one bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs. Mix well until combined.
Set Up Dipping Stations: In another bowl, beat two eggs until fully combined. This will help the breading stick to the chicken during baking.
Dip the Chicken Breasts: Take each boneless chicken breast and dip it first into the egg mixture followed by coating it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture ensuring it’s evenly covered.
Bake It Perfectly: Place the coated chicken breasts on your prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Serve Hot with Your Favorite Sides: Once baked to perfection, serve immediately with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated versions for better taste and texture in your crust.
Don’t Overcrowd The Baking Sheet: Ensure there’s enough space between each piece of chicken on your baking sheet; this allows air circulation which results in crispier breading.
Add Extra Seasoning If Desired: Feel free to customize flavors by adding spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a kick or additional herbs based on preference.
Crisp Up Under Broiler For More Crunch: If you desire an extra crispy finish on top after baking, broil on high for an additional minute or two while watching closely so they don’t burn.
Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the cooked chicken breasts to rest for five minutes before cutting helps retain moisture within each piece resulting in juicier servings.
Mistakes to avoid
Overcooking the Chicken
One common mistake when making Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is overcooking the chicken. Chicken breasts can dry out quickly if cooked for too long. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness, and remove the chicken from heat as soon as it reaches this temperature. Cooking times may vary based on thickness, so keep a close eye on your chicken while it’s cooking to ensure it remains juicy and tender.
Skipping the Brining Process
Brining is an essential step often overlooked in preparing Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken. A simple brine of water and salt enhances flavor and moisture retention, resulting in a more succulent dish. Allow the chicken to brine for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum impact. This process ensures that your chicken stays flavorful and juicy, providing a restaurant-quality experience right at home.
Not Using Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh herbs and ingredients is crucial when making Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Dried herbs can lose their potency, leading to a bland dish. Opt for fresh parsley, garlic, and parmesan cheese for vibrant flavors that elevate your chicken. Additionally, fresh ingredients not only enhance taste but also contribute valuable nutrients. Investing in quality ingredients will significantly improve your final result.
Neglecting Proper Coating Technique
The coating process can make or break your Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken. To achieve that perfect crispy crust, ensure you follow a systematic approach: dip the chicken in flour first, then egg wash, followed by the parmesan breadcrumb mixture. This three-step method guarantees even coverage and promotes better adhesion of the coating. Skipping steps or rushing through this process may lead to unevenly coated chicken that lacks that signature crunch.
Ignoring Cooking Method Variability
Another mistake is not adapting your cooking method based on available equipment when preparing Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Whether you’re using an oven, air fryer, or stovetop skillet, each method requires specific times and temperatures for optimal results. For instance, baking typically takes about 25-30 minutes at 400°F (200°C), while an air fryer may cook it in just 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Adjusting accordingly will ensure a perfectly cooked dish no matter which method you choose.
Serving Suggestions
This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic combination, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes. The rich, buttery flavor of the potatoes complements the savory chicken perfectly.
Another great option is to pair this dish with steamed asparagus. The bright, fresh taste of asparagus adds a healthy touch to your meal while balancing out the richness of the chicken.
For a refreshing twist, consider serving a mixed green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. This light side dish enhances the overall dining experience and adds a pop of color to your plate.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, garlic bread makes an excellent choice. The crunchy texture and garlic flavor will elevate your meal, making every bite delightful and satisfying.
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
To prepare Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken, gather boneless chicken breasts, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil. These simple ingredients come together to create a deliciously crispy crust that will remind you of the restaurant’s signature dish.
How long does it take to cook Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Cooking Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken typically takes about 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. This quick cooking time makes it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
Can I make Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken ahead by breading it and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake it as instructed for a convenient meal without extra prep time.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs in this recipe?
If you want to make Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken gluten-free or healthier, consider using crushed almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs as substitutes. These alternatives will still provide that desired crunch while catering to dietary needs.
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a deliciously easy way to enjoy the rich, savory flavors of your favorite restaurant dish right at home. This recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts coated in a flavorful mixture of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and crunchy panko breadcrumbs, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike, it’s a family-friendly meal that pairs beautifully with sides like creamy mashed potatoes or fresh steamed vegetables. With minimal preparation and straightforward steps, you’ll have an irresistible dinner on the table in no time.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or nonstick spray.
- In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs until combined.
- Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
