Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of crispy breaded chicken, melted cheese, and zesty marinara sauce. This recipe is a delightful choice for a family dinner or a cozy night in. The aroma of the chicken baking in the oven will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that combines heartiness with simplicity, making it worth adding to your weekly rotation. If you’re looking for a delicious meal that’s easy to prepare, follow this step-by-step guide to creating this sensational dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Parmesan Chicken dish. Firstly, the prep is simple, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients readily available in most kitchens, this recipe offers convenience without compromising flavor. Additionally, this dish is family-friendly; even the pickiest eaters are sure to enjoy the crispy chicken combined with melty cheese and tasty marinara sauce. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, this recipe works perfectly for anyone seeking a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
For this enticing Parmesan Chicken recipe, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These provide the perfect canvas for the flavorful toppings.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Choose seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra flavor boost.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a nutty richness and a beautiful golden color.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that evokes the essence of Italian cooking.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: To keep the chicken moist and help the breadcrumbs crisp up beautifully.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: This brings a warm, tangy element that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: A melty indulgence that wraps everything together in cheesy goodness.
Step-by-Step Directions for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Follow these straightforward steps to create your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your oven is ready to create crispy perfection.
In a bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture will surround your chicken breasts with incredible flavor.
Dredge each chicken breast in olive oil, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly covered for a delicious, crunchy exterior.
Place the coated chicken in a baking dish. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This initial baking time helps to cook the chicken through without over-drying it.
Remove from the oven and top each chicken breast with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. This is where the magic happens; it transforms the dish from simply good to absolutely irresistible.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on it; we want that perfect golden crust on top!
Serve hot. Allow the chicken to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the cheese set.
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, consider these chef’s secrets and hacks:
- For extra crunch, add some crushed garlic or onion powder into your breadcrumb mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, mix in some red pepper flakes with the seasoning.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors; Gruyère or provolone could be delicious alternatives.
- Pair this dish with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container and reheat gently in the oven for the best results.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Present your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken with a side of spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic for a classic Italian experience. Another great option is to serve it alongside garlic bread and a fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider pairing it with a colorful vegetable medley sauté. Its vibrant colors and flavors would beautifully complement your Parmesan chicken and make for an appealing plate.
Nutritional Information
For those who keep an eye on their caloric intake, here’s a basic breakdown of this dish’s nutritional values:
- Calories: Approximately 450-500 per serving, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients.
- Protein: High in protein thanks to the chicken, making it a fulfilling option.
- Carbohydrates: Mostly from the breadcrumbs, but balanced with wholesome ingredients.
- Fats: Healthy fats from olive oil, along with some saturated fats from cheese.
Enjoy this meal in moderation, especially if you’re looking to indulge a bit!
Storing Tips & Variations for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
When storing any leftovers, make sure to let the chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. If you’d like to enjoy it later, consider freezing it for up to one month; just reheat it in the oven to maintain its crispy texture. For a healthier variation, substitute lean chicken or turkey breast, or use whole wheat breadcrumbs for a more nutritious twist. Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme for additional flavor and freshness.
Conclusion for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is an outstanding recipe that merges comfort food with simplicity. With its crispy exterior, gooey cheese, and delightful marinara sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t hesitate to try this incredible recipe right away. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how quick, easy, and satisfying it is!
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted. Bone-in chicken takes longer to cook, so ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular breadcrumbs, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
3. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it the night before. Just add a few minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
5. What can I serve with Parmesan Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a hearty salad, making it versatile for any meal setting.
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting dish featuring crispy breaded chicken, melted cheese, and zesty marinara sauce, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in olive oil, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken in a baking dish in a single layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot and allow to sit for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra crunch, consider adding crushed garlic or onion powder into the breadcrumb mixture. You can also mix in red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
