Easy Weeknight Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Are you craving the mouthwatering taste of Longhorn Steakhouse’s famous parmesan crusted chicken but don’t want to leave the comfort of your home? Look no further! This longhorn parmesan crusted chicken recipe brings the restaurant experience right to your kitchen. With a perfectly crispy parmesan crust on the outside and juicy, tender chicken on the inside, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Best of all, it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for special occasions.

Why This Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe Works

The secret to this longhorn parmesan chicken recipe lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of sharp parmesan cheese, savory herbs, and crispy breadcrumbs creates an irresistible crust that seals in the chicken’s natural juices. Unlike many copycat recipes, this one captures the essence of the restaurant version while being accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.

What makes this longhorn parmesan crusted chicken truly special is the creamy parmesan sauce that’s drizzled over the top. This velvety sauce adds richness and depth to an already delicious dish, elevating it to restaurant-quality status. Even better, you can prepare this entire meal in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe Card: Easy Weeknight Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Nutritional Information

While the exact nutritional content of this longhorn parmesan crusted chicken will vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used, here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (one chicken breast with sauce):

• Calories: Approximately 550-650
• Protein: 45-50g
• Fat: 35-40g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Sodium: 850-950mg

This dish is high in protein and moderate in carbohydrates, making it a satisfying meal option. The longhorn chicken recipe does contain dairy and gluten in its traditional form, so consider the substitutions mentioned earlier for dietary restrictions.

Ingredients for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 slices provolone cheese

For the Parmesan Cream Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

This ingredient list has been carefully crafted to recreate the authentic flavors of longhorn chicken while using items readily available in most grocery stores. The combination of both parmesan and provolone cheese adds complexity to the flavor profile that makes this dish truly special.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before diving into the longhorn parmesan crusted chicken recipe, gather these essential tools for smooth preparation:

• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Shallow bowls for breading station
• Large oven-safe skillet
• Small saucepan for the cream sauce
• Instant-read meat thermometer
• Whisk
• Paper towels
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Having everything prepared before you start cooking will make the process much more enjoyable and efficient. This is especially important when making longhorn parmesan chicken recipe at home for the first time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Prepare the chicken breasts: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking and tender meat, which is key for authentic longhorn parmesan crusted chicken.
2. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Set up your breading station: In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs with a tablespoon of water. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to create the perfect coating for your longhorn parmesan chicken recipe.
4. Bread the chicken: Dip each chicken breast first into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated. Firmly press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to help them stick. Place the breaded chicken on a clean plate and continue with the remaining pieces.

Cooking the Chicken:

5. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, you can begin cooking the chicken.
6. Cook the chicken: Warm the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, which is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior that makes longhorn parmesan crusted chicken so delicious.
7. Add the provolone: Place a slice of provolone cheese on each chicken breast, then move the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Making the Parmesan Cream Sauce:

8. Prepare the sauce: While the chicken is in the oven, make the cream sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.
9. Create the cream base: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
10. Add the cheese: Gradually whisk in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Sprinkle with white pepper and add a pinch of nutmeg, if desired. This luxurious sauce is what makes this longhorn parmesan chicken recipe truly exceptional.

Serving:

11. Plate the dish: Remove the chicken from the oven and transfer to serving plates. Drizzle the warm parmesan cream sauce over each piece of chicken.
12. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your homemade longhorn parmesan crusted chicken immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To elevate your longhorn parmesan crusted chicken recipe to restaurant-quality status, consider these professional tips:

• Use fresh parmesan: Pre-grated parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the flavor and texture. For the best results, buy a block of parmesan and grate it yourself.
• Let the chicken rest: After pounding the chicken breasts, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly and stay juicy, which is essential for authentic longhorn chicken.
• Don’t skimp on the breading: Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken to create a thick, even coating that will become gloriously crispy when cooked.
• Monitor the temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) without overcooking. Overcooked chicken will be dry, even with the delicious sauce on your longhorn parmesan crusted chicken.
• Make the sauce fresh: For the best flavor and texture, make the parmesan cream sauce just before serving. If it thickens too much while waiting, gently reheat it, adding a splash of cream if necessary.

Customizing Your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

One of the best things about making longhorn parmesan crusted chicken at home is that you can customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:

Make it Spicy:

Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick that complements the rich parmesan flavors.

Herb Variations:

Experiment with different herb combinations in your longhorn parmesan chicken recipe. Fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil can add interesting flavor dimensions.

Gluten-Free Option:

Replace the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Lighter Version:

For a lighter take on the classic longhorn parmesan crusted chicken recipe, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream in the sauce and reduce the amount of cheese slightly. You can also bake the breaded chicken instead of pan-frying it.

Why This Recipe Stands Out From Other Chicken Parmesan Dishes

What makes this longhorn parmesan crusted chicken recipe different from traditional chicken parmesan? The key differences include:

1. The cheese placement: Unlike traditional chicken parmesan where the cheese is melted on top, this recipe incorporates parmesan into the breading and adds provolone for melting, creating more complex flavor layers.
2. The sauce: Instead of a tomato-based sauce, the longhorn parmesan crusted chicken features a rich, creamy parmesan sauce that complements rather than competes with the chicken’s flavor.
3. The cooking method: This recipe uses a combination of stovetop and oven cooking to achieve the perfect balance of a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
4. The herbs and spices: The specific blend of seasonings in this longhorn parmesan chicken recipe creates a distinctive flavor profile that sets it apart from other parmesan chicken dishes.

The History Behind Longhorn Steakhouse’s Famous Chicken

While enjoying your homemade longhorn parmesan crusted chicken, you might be interested to know that Longhorn Steakhouse began as a single restaurant in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1981. Originally known primarily for steaks, they expanded their menu to include other popular items like the now-famous parmesan crusted chicken.

The longhorn chicken dishes became customer favorites because they offered a delicious alternative to steak while maintaining the restaurant’s commitment to flavor and quality. The parmesan crusted chicken, in particular, has become one of their signature non-steak offerings, beloved for its perfect balance of crispy, cheesy coating and tender, juicy meat.

Perfect Pairings: What to Drink with Your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

The rich, creamy nature of this longhorn parmesan crusted chicken recipe pairs beautifully with certain beverages:

• Iced tea: For a non-alcoholic option, unsweetened iced tea with lemon provides a refreshing contrast to the rich longhorn parmesan chicken recipe.

Troubleshooting Your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Even experienced cooks can run into challenges. Here are solutions to common issues when preparing longhorn parmesan crusted chicken:

Problem: The breading falls off during cooking

Solution: Ensure your chicken is dry before breading, press the coating firmly onto the chicken, and don’t move the chicken too much in the pan during the initial cooking phase.

Problem: The chicken is dry

Solution: Be careful not to overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer and remove it from heat once it reaches 165°F (74°C). Properly pounding the chicken to even thickness also helps ensure juicy results in your longhorn parmesan crusted chicken recipe.

Problem: The sauce breaks or becomes grainy

Solution: Heat control is crucial. Keep the heat low when adding cheese to the sauce and remove it from heat once the cheese has melted. Whisk constantly and consider adding a tiny bit of cornstarch slurry if needed for stability.

Common Questions About Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the longhorn parmesan crusted chicken is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Bread the chicken up to 4 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator on a wire rack. Make the sauce just before serving for the best taste and texture.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover longhorn parmesan chicken recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible. Reheat the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes) to help preserve the crispy coating.

Can I freeze this dish?

You can freeze the breaded (but uncooked) chicken for up to 3 months. When ready to prepare your longhorn parmesan crusted chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before cooking as directed. The sauce does not freeze well, so make it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

For a complete meal that complements your longhorn chicken, consider these sides:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Steamed asparagus or green beans
• Caesar salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Buttered noodles
• Crusty garlic bread

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in this longhorn parmesan crusted chicken recipe. They may need a slightly different cooking time (usually a bit longer), so always use your meat thermometer to confirm doneness.

Final Thoughts on Mastering Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Creating restaurant-quality longhorn parmesan crusted chicken at home is an achievable goal with the right techniques and ingredients. This recipe captures the essence of the popular Longhorn Steakhouse dish while giving you the freedom to adjust flavors to your preference.

The combination of crispy, well-seasoned chicken and creamy, rich parmesan sauce makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply elevating your weeknight dinner routine, this longhorn parmesan chicken recipe delivers exceptional results with relatively simple preparation.

Remember, the key to perfecting this dish lies in attention to detail: properly preparing the chicken, creating a well-seasoned breading, controlling cooking temperatures, and making a smooth, flavorful sauce. Master these elements, and you’ll have a signature dish that rivals or even surpasses the restaurant original.

So the next time you’re craving that distinctive longhorn chicken experience, skip the restaurant and head to your kitchen instead. With this recipe in hand, you’ll create a memorable meal that’s worth celebrating—and sharing with those you love.