Introduction
Craving that irresistible, garlicky, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying Longhorn Steakhouse Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken but feeling like staying in? Let’s face it, sometimes the comfort of your own kitchen and a home-cooked meal just can’t be beat. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice that restaurant-quality flavor you love. This recipe is your ticket to recreating the magic of Longhorn’s signature chicken dish, all from the comfort of your own home. Skip the lines, the inflated prices, and the hassle – this copycat recipe is designed to deliver that same incredible taste, with a few tweaks to make it even better. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this surprisingly simple and utterly delicious Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken, inspired by one of America’s favorite restaurant meals.
What You Will Need to Get Started
Before diving into the cooking process, gather all the necessary ingredients. Having everything prepped and ready will streamline the process and make it much more enjoyable. The heart of this dish lies in the perfect balance of flavors, so paying attention to ingredient quality is key.
First, you’ll need the star of the show: boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Aim for chicken breasts that are roughly the same size and thickness for even cooking. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you’ll want to pound them down to an even half-inch thickness. This ensures they cook through evenly and prevents them from drying out.
Next, let’s talk about the all-important Garlic Parmesan Crust. This is where the magic happens. The core ingredients are:
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is highly recommended. The pre-shredded stuff often contains cellulose, which can hinder melting and affect the overall texture.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must. Don’t even think about using garlic powder here. The fresh garlic provides a pungent, aromatic flavor that is essential to the dish.
- Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise provides the base for the crust, adding moisture and richness. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier and healthier option.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are preferred for their light and airy texture, which provides a delightfully crispy crust. Regular breadcrumbs will work in a pinch, but the Panko will yield superior results.
- Butter: Melted butter adds flavor and helps bind the crust ingredients together.
- Spices: A blend of Italian seasoning, garlic powder (yes, a little extra!), salt, and pepper will enhance the overall flavor profile.
While the Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is already a complete dish, consider adding a few optional elements to elevate the dining experience. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving adds a bright, zesty touch. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley provides a pop of color and a subtle herbaceous flavor. And of course, don’t forget the side dishes! Mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a simple green salad all pair wonderfully with this chicken.
Regarding ingredient notes, remember that quality matters. Using high-quality Parmesan cheese and fresh garlic will significantly impact the overall flavor of the dish. If you are watching your calorie intake, consider substituting Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. However, be aware that this will slightly alter the taste and texture of the crust.
Making the Longhorn Steakhouse Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
With all the ingredients prepped, let’s get to the fun part: actually making the Longhorn Steakhouse Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
First, you’ll need to prepare the chicken. This involves pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until it reaches a uniform half-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and prevents some parts from drying out before other parts are cooked. After pounding, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. Excess moisture will prevent the crust from browning properly.
Now it is time to prepare the Garlic Parmesan Crust. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed and a thick paste forms. The consistency should be thick enough to adhere to the chicken breasts without running off.
Next, spread the garlic parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Use your fingers or a spatula to ensure that the entire surface is covered with a generous layer of the crust. Gently press the mixture onto the chicken to help it adhere. This will prevent the crust from falling off during cooking.
Now comes the cooking process. You have two options: oven baking or pan-frying. Both methods yield delicious results, so choose the one that best suits your preferences and equipment.
Oven Baking Method
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If your oven has a convection setting, use it for even better browning. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the chicken from sticking. Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, crust-side up. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and bubbly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Pan-Frying Method
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet, crust-side up. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature and prevent the chicken from browning properly. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
Regardless of which cooking method you choose, be sure to check the chicken for doneness using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding the crust. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven or skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
What to Serve with Your Chicken
Longhorn Steakhouse Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal:
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with chicken.
- Steamed broccoli: A healthy and vibrant side that adds color and nutrients to the meal.
- Asparagus: Grilled or roasted asparagus is another excellent vegetable option.
- Rice pilaf: A flavorful and aromatic rice dish that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Salad: A simple green salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the chicken.
For a finishing touch, consider garnishing the chicken with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. You can also serve it with a side of extra grated Parmesan cheese or a complementary sauce, such as a light lemon-butter sauce.
When plating the dish, aim for an attractive presentation. Arrange the chicken on a plate alongside your chosen sides. Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley for a pop of color. A well-presented dish is always more appealing!
Tips and Tricks for Success
Here are some additional tips and tricks to ensure that your Longhorn Steakhouse Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken turns out perfectly every time:
- Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is crucial for even cooking. This prevents some parts from drying out before other parts are cooked through.
- Patting the chicken dry with paper towels before applying the crust is essential for achieving a crispy crust. Excess moisture will prevent the crust from browning properly.
- Using Panko breadcrumbs is recommended for the crispiest crust. Regular breadcrumbs will work, but Panko will yield superior results.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings in the garlic parmesan mixture to your preference.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan if pan-frying. This will lower the temperature and prevent the chicken from browning properly. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until heated through. To prevent the chicken from drying out, add a splash of water or broth to the container before reheating.
A Note on Nutrition
While indulgence is key here, a quick word on nutrition. An approximate calorie count for one serving of this Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken will vary based on portion size and ingredients used, but is estimated to be around 400-600 calories. The macronutrient breakdown is roughly: protein (40-50g), carbohydrates (20-30g), and fats (20-30g). Keep in mind these are estimations and are subject to change depending on ingredient selection and preparation methods.
Your Longhorn Style Chicken Awaits
This Longhorn Steakhouse Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is proof that you don’t need to leave your house to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of effort, you can recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen. It is easy, rewarding and creates a dish that is loved by all.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven (or fire up your skillet), and get ready to experience the irresistible flavors of Longhorn Steakhouse Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken, all from the comfort of your own home. We are confident that you will adore this version, which in many ways is improved on the original. If you give it a try, share your results and feedback in the comments below. We’d love to hear how it turned out! And if you are a chicken lover, be sure to check out our other chicken recipes to continue your culinary adventure! We can’t wait to see what you create.
