Introduction
Have you ever craved that irresistible flavor of Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken? This dish features tender chicken breasts topped with a savory parmesan crust that is simply delightful. The combination of cheesy goodness and crispy texture makes it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Imagine sitting down to dinner with friends or family, the aroma of garlic and herbs filling the air as you serve this delectable dish. It’s not just about the taste; it’s an experience that brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this chicken will undoubtedly delight everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Delicious Flavor Profile: The blend of parmesan cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a rich and savory flavor that tantalizes your taste buds. Each bite is an explosion of taste that rivals what you would find at your favorite steakhouse.
Easy Preparation: You don’t need culinary expertise to whip up this dish! With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can achieve restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, this chicken dish fits perfectly into any setting. Its appealing presentation adds a touch of sophistication to your meal.
Customizable for Your Taste: You can easily adjust the seasonings and ingredients according to your preferences. Want it spicier? Add some cayenne pepper! Prefer it lighter? Swap out some cheese for herbs. The options are endless!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose 3-4 chicken breasts for even cooking; they should be about 1 inch thick for best results.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan works best; it melts beautifully and enhances flavor.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a delightful crunch to the topping; you can use plain or seasoned varieties.
- Fresh Garlic: Select firm cloves for optimal flavor; minced garlic elevates the dish significantly.
- Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme imparts classic Italian flavors that complement the chicken well.
For the Sauce:
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor which complements the other ingredients nicely.
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: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with nonstick spray.
Prepare the Chicken: Season the boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This basic seasoning enhances the overall flavor as they cook.
Create the Topping Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and dried Italian herbs. Drizzle in olive oil to help bind everything together.
Coat the Chicken Breasts: Dip each seasoned chicken breast into the topping mixture until fully covered. Press down gently so that it adheres well to each piece.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Arrange the coated chicken on your prepared baking sheet. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients significantly improves flavor richness. Opt for high-quality parmesan cheese and fresh garlic whenever possible.
Don’t Skip Seasoning: Ensure you season both sides of your chicken well before adding toppings; this step is crucial for flavor penetration during cooking.
Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing your cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain moisture and enhances tenderness.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne if you prefer more heat! You can also incorporate different herbs based on available options.
Melt Cheese For Extra Flavor: If you want an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle more parmesan on top during the last few minutes of baking until melted.
Enjoy preparing this fantastic Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe! It’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your household.
Mistakes to avoid
Using the wrong chicken cut
Selecting the appropriate cut of chicken is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Avoid using skinless chicken breasts, as they tend to dry out during cooking. Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts instead. These cuts retain moisture better and provide a richer taste. Additionally, always ensure that you let the chicken rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, preventing dryness.
Neglecting to marinate
Marinating your chicken is an essential step that enhances flavor and tenderness. Skipping this step can result in bland meat. Aim to marinate your Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken for at least one hour, but preferably overnight in the refrigerator. Use a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and spices to create a flavorful marinade. This process infuses the chicken with delicious flavors and helps keep it juicy during cooking.
Overcooking the chicken
Overcooking can easily ruin your Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken pieces. If you don’t have a thermometer, remember that smaller pieces will cook faster than larger ones. Taking the chicken off heat when it is slightly undercooked allows it to finish cooking while resting.
Ignoring the crust preparation
The crust is what makes Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken so special. Failing to prepare it correctly can lead to a disappointing dish. Ensure you combine grated Parmesan cheese with breadcrumbs effectively for a crispy texture. Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and mix in herbs like parsley or Italian seasoning for added flavor. Apply the crust generously before baking; this will help form a delicious, golden layer that complements the juicy chicken beneath.
Serving Suggestions
For an elegant presentation, serve this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken on a bed of sautéed spinach or kale, adding vibrant greens to your plate. Pair it with roasted baby carrots to bring out the earthy flavors of the dish. If you’re hosting guests, consider offering a selection of dipping sauces, like lemon butter or marinara, to enhance each bite. Finally, complement your meal with crusty artisan bread for a complete dining experience that feels indulgent yet comforting.
FAQs
What makes Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken special?
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken stands out due to its crunchy parmesan coating and juicy chicken breast. The unique blend of seasonings elevates this dish, making it reminiscent of restaurant-quality meals enjoyed at home. This recipe allows you to replicate the delightful flavors without stepping into a restaurant, offering convenience and satisfaction.
Can I make Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken ahead of time. You can coat the chicken in the parmesan mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, simply pop it in the oven as directed. This makes meal prep easier for busy weeknights while still delivering delicious results.
What sides go well with Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Many sides complement Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken beautifully. Consider pairing it with garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables like broccoli and carrots for balance. A crisp salad adds freshness while seasoned rice pilaf offers heartiness. Choose sides that enhance the dish’s flavors while providing variety to your meal.
Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?
While parmesan is traditional for Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you can experiment with other cheeses if desired. Consider blending mozzarella or provolone with parmesan for added creaminess and flavor depth. Just be sure that any cheese used melts well and enhances the overall taste of this delicious dish.
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the signature flavors of your favorite steakhouse right to your kitchen. This recipe features juicy chicken breasts coated in a crunchy, savory parmesan crust, infused with garlic and herbs for an irresistible taste. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this easy-to-follow meal will impress family and friends alike. With minimal prep and cook time, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality experience without leaving home. Serve it alongside your choice of sides for a complete and satisfying dining experience.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a bowl, combine parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, dried herbs, and olive oil until well mixed.
- Coat each seasoned chicken breast with the topping mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres.
- Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Let rest briefly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
