Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Why Make This Recipe

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that many people enjoy. It combines the creamy taste of cheeses with the crunchiness of panko breadcrumbs, creating a savory meal. This dish is not just about great taste; it’s also easy to make and perfect for families or gatherings. When you cook this dish at home, you get the satisfaction of achieving restaurant-quality food right in your kitchen.

Making this recipe at home allows you to control the ingredients and make it cater to your personal taste. You can adjust the seasoning, add different herbs, or even switch up the cheeses based on what you have available. Plus, this chicken dish pairs well with many sides, like salads, rice, or vegetables, offering versatility for whatever meal you’re planning.

Cooking can sometimes feel overwhelming, but this simple recipe helps simplify the process. It requires only a few ingredients, most of which you may already have in your pantry. If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that brings family and friends together, Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is the perfect choice.

How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Making Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a straightforward process that doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. Below is a detailed breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need and the step-by-step directions to whip up this delicious dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly once it’s in the oven. While the oven heats, take out a baking dish and grease it with one tablespoon of olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.

2. Season the Chicken: Take your four boneless, skinless chicken breasts and rub them with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning adds a wonderful flavor to the chicken. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.

3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and panko breadcrumbs. This mixture will create that lovely crust on the chicken. Mix them well so that each ingredient is evenly distributed.

4. Apply the Ranch Dressing: Take your prepared chicken breasts and place them in the greased baking dish. Spread ranch dressing over each chicken breast thoroughly. The ranch dressing not only adds flavor but also helps the cheese mixture stick better.

5. Add the Cheese Mixture: After applying ranch dressing, generously sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture on top of each chicken breast. Press down gently to help it adhere to the chicken.

6. Bake the Chicken: Place your baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the top is golden brown and crispy.

7. Let It Rest: After removing the chicken from the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices in the chicken and allows it to remain moist when sliced.

How to Serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Serving Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a breeze. This delicious dish can be the star of any meal. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

• As a Main Course: Place the chicken breasts on individual plates and drizzle a bit more ranch dressing for an extra creamy touch.
• With Sides: Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad. Rice or mashed potatoes also makes a great combination with the chicken.
• Garnish: For an added visual appeal, you can garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This not only looks good but also adds a fresh flavor.

The possibilities are endless! Customize the presentation according to the occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.

How to Store Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

If you have leftovers, savoring your dish the next day is entirely possible! Here’s how to properly store your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken:

• Refrigeration: Allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, the chicken can last for up to 2 to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave. Just make sure to heat it until it’s warmed through.

Tips to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Here are some helpful tips to enhance your cooking experience and ensure delicious results:

• Using the Right Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly, but you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier texture. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While Parmesan and mozzarella create a fantastic combination, don’t hesitate to mix it up! Cheddar cheese, gouda, or even a hint of blue cheese can provide unique flavors.
• Herbs and Spices: Experiment with additional spices like paprika, Italian seasoning, or even some crushed red pepper for a hint of heat. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can also enhance the flavor profile.
• Add a Crunch: Besides panko breadcrumbs, you can mix in crushed cornflakes or even crushed crackers for added crunch.

With these tips, you can customize your chicken to meet your tastes and preferences.

Variation

You can easily adjust this recipe to suit different palates or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Stuffed Parmesan Chicken: Before applying the ranch dressing and cheese mixture, you can slice a pocket into the thick part of the chicken breasts and stuff them with spinach, cream cheese, or roasted red peppers.
• Spicy Parmesan Chicken: If you enjoy heat, try mixing in cayenne pepper or using spicy ranch or hot sauce instead of regular ranch dressing.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This way, everyone can enjoy this dish regardless of dietary restrictions.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Bone-in chicken will need a longer cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

2. Can I prepare Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can season the chicken and assemble it with the cheese mixture and ranch dressing a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate until you are ready to bake it.

3. Can I bake the chicken from frozen?

It’s best to thaw the chicken before cooking, but if you need to bake it from frozen, increase the baking time. You will need to ensure it reaches the appropriate internal temperature to guarantee it’s safe to eat.

4. How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

Using a meat thermometer is the best way. When the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s done.

5. What sides pair well with Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including roasted or steamed vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh garden salad.

Making Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken at home offers a satisfying meal that everyone will love. With its crispy cheese topping and juicy chicken, this dish can become a staple in your recipe collection. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and offers a great dining experience right from the comfort of your home.

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