When you think about Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, you’re envisioning a dish that expertly marries tender, juicy chicken with the robust flavors of Parmesan and marinara.
The crispy, golden coating and the melted mozzarella add a satisfying texture that complements the savory Italian notes.
As you explore how the balance of flavors and textures work harmoniously, you might wonder how this dish fits into a home-cooked meal.
What secrets make this recipe so irresistible?
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 Skillet
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 Meat Tenderizer
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Oven
Ingredients
- 4 pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 cup of marinara sauce
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, follow this timeline based on the provided prep and cook times:
Timeline for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken:
- Pre-Preparation (0 – 5 minutes)
- Gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Chicken Preparation (5 – 15 minutes)
- Use a meat tenderizer to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Combine the flour, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl.
- Coating the Chicken (15 – 20 minutes)
- Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture.
- Dip the chicken into the whisked eggs.
- Coat the chicken with grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder.
- Cooking the Chicken (20 – 30 minutes)
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken in the skillet until it’s golden brown on both sides.
- Baking (30 – 45 minutes)
- Transfer the browned chicken to a baking sheet.
- Spread marinara sauce over each piece of chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
- Resting and Finishing Touches (45 – 50 minutes)
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for Ideal Timing:
- While the chicken is baking, you can clean up the preparation area or prepare any side dishes you plan to serve with the meal.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor and verify the chicken is pounded evenly for uniform cooking.
- Adjust the marinara sauce to your taste by adding red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.
Recipe
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese with tangy marinara sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience.
This American classic is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a comforting and satisfying meal.
With tender chicken breasts at its core, this recipe strikes a perfect balance between rich cheese, flavorful garlic, and aromatic herbs, making every bite a delight.
The preparation of this dish is quite straightforward and requires common kitchen equipment such as a skillet and an oven.
By following the steps carefully, you can achieve a lovely golden crust on the chicken and a deliciously melted cheese topping.
This recipe yields four servings, making it an ideal choice for a small gathering or a cozy family dinner.
To prepare Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat tenderizer.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper, and in another bowl, whisk the eggs.
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip it into the eggs, confirming it’s well-coated.
Next, coat the chicken with grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides.
Transfer the browned chicken to a baking sheet and spread marinara sauce over each piece, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley and serving.
For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
Verify the chicken is pounded to an even thickness so it cooks uniformly, avoiding any undercooked areas.
If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for an extra kick.
This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad, rounding out the meal perfectly.
Cooking Steps
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F to guarantee it’s ready for the final baking step.
While it warms up, use a meat tenderizer to flatten the chicken breasts, ensuring an even thickness for consistent cooking.
Next, mix the dry ingredients together and whisk the eggs until frothy, preparing to coat the chicken with a flavorful flour and egg mixture.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 400°F
While preparing to create a delicious Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, it’s important to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to guarantee even cooking.
This step is essential, making sure the chicken bakes thoroughly, achieving the perfect balance of a juicy interior and a crisp, cheesy crust.
Begin by confirming your oven’s accuracy—an oven thermometer can be a helpful tool.
Set your oven to the desired temperature before you start other preparation tasks.
This allows ample time for the oven to heat evenly, avoiding any cold spots that could compromise the dish’s texture.
Step 2. Flatten Chicken With Tenderizer
Grab your meat tenderizer and focus on achieving an even thickness for each chicken breast.
This step is essential for ensuring uniform cooking and enhancing the texture of your dish.
Start by placing one chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or inside a resealable plastic bag.
This prevents mess and maintains hygiene.
Using the flat side of the tenderizer, gently pound the chicken, starting from the center and moving outwards.
Apply consistent pressure to avoid tearing the meat.
Your goal is a uniform thickness, roughly half an inch, which allows for even cooking and a tender bite.
Properly flattened chicken not only cooks evenly but also absorbs flavors better, making your Parmesan Chicken a restaurant-quality delight.
Step 3. Mix Dry Ingredients Together
Once you’ve prepared the chicken, it’s time to focus on the dry ingredients that will form the crispy base of your Parmesan Chicken.
Begin by measuring out one cup of all-purpose flour, making certain its texture is light and clump-free.
Add two teaspoons of salt; this will enhance the flavors and guarantee the chicken is well-seasoned.
Next, incorporate one teaspoon of black pepper for a subtle hint of spice that complements the cheese’s richness.
Use a mixing bowl to combine these ingredients thoroughly, assuring even distribution.
Stirring with precision will prevent any uneven coating when you dredge the chicken.
This mix is your foundation, setting the stage for a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and tender chicken within.
Step 4. Whisk Eggs Until Frothy
Begin by cracking the eggs into a separate bowl, making certain no shell fragments sneak in.
This step is vital for achieving the right consistency in your egg coating.
Use a whisk and vigorously beat the eggs until they become frothy.
The frothiness indicates air has been incorporated, which helps the coating adhere better to the chicken.
Notice how the texture transforms from a viscous liquid to a lighter, airy mixture.
It’s important to maintain a steady rhythm while whisking, as it guarantees uniform consistency.
Don’t rush this step; take a moment to appreciate the subtle changes in texture and color.
This frothy mixture will be fundamental in binding the subsequent layers, setting the stage for a beautifully coated Parmesan chicken.
Step 5. Flour and Egg Coat Chicken
With the eggs now frothy and ready, attention shifts to the careful process of coating the chicken.
Begin by dredging each piece in the flour mixture—composed of all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper.
This initial layer serves as the foundation, guaranteeing the chicken retains a crisp exterior.
Next, immerse the floured chicken in the beaten eggs.
This step not only provides a sticky surface for the cheese but also adds moisture, preventing the chicken from drying out during cooking.
Once dipped in eggs, press the chicken into the grated Parmesan cheese mixed with garlic powder.
This final layer infuses each piece with robust flavors and a savory crust.
Carefully verify each piece is evenly coated for consistent taste and texture throughout.
Serving Tips
- Garlic Bread: A perfect accompaniment to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Adds a revitalizing and crisp element to balance the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Steamed Vegetables: Offers a healthy and colorful side that complements the main dish.
- Mashed Potatoes: Provides a creamy and comforting base to enjoy with the Parmesan chicken.
- Pasta: A classic pairing that enhances the Italian-inspired flavors of the dish.
Storage/Freezing/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
It can be frozen for up to two months.
Reheating: Reheat by baking in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.
This helps retain the chicken’s crispy texture.
Final Thoughts
As you savor the delightful flavors of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, you might find yourself contemplating the balance of textures and tastes that make this dish a standout.
The crispy coating complements the tender chicken, while the rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella add layers of flavor.
This dish is an excellent example of how simple ingredients can create a complex taste experience.
| Element | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Crispy exterior, tender interior | Enhances enjoyment |
| Flavor | Savory cheese, garlic, and herbs | Rich and satisfying |
| Aroma | Inviting scent of baked cheese | Stimulates appetite |
| Presentation | Golden-brown, vibrant sauce | Visually appealing |
| Versatility | Adaptable to taste preferences | Suitable for various occasions |
Creating this dish at home allows customization, and with a few tweaks, you can make it your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Chicken With Another Protein?
You can substitute chicken with other proteins like pork chops or turkey cutlets. Make certain they’re pounded evenly for consistent cooking. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein’s thickness to keep it juicy and flavorful.
Is This Dish Suitable for a Gluten-Free Diet?
You can’t call this dish gluten-free as it includes all-purpose flour. However, substitute the flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond or coconut flour. This change maintains flavor while making it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
To make this dish healthier, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, and bake the chicken entirely instead of frying. Reduce the cheese amounts, and opt for a homemade marinara sauce with no added sugar.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With This Chicken?
You can pair this chicken with roasted vegetables for a nutritious balance. Consider serving it with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic-buttered green beans. Quinoa or whole-grain pasta also complement the dish while adding healthy grains.
Can I Prepare the Dish in an Air Fryer?
You can prepare the dish in an air fryer by adjusting cooking times. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F, cook the chicken for 8-10 minutes, then add sauce and cheese, cooking until the cheese is melted.
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Equipment
- 1 Skillet
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Meat Tenderizer
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Oven
Ingredients
- 4 pieces of boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 cup of marinara sauce
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese shredded
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness using a meat tenderizer.
- Combine flour, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl.
- Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, then dip into the eggs.
- Coat the chicken with grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken in the skillet until golden brown on both sides.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet.
- Spread marinara sauce over each piece of chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake in the oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
