Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

If you love indulging in a hearty meal at Longhorn Steakhouse, you’re not alone. The restaurant’s signature dish, the Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, has won the hearts of many food enthusiasts. This delightful dish features tender chicken breasts topped with a golden parmesan crust that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or looking to impress guests at your next gathering, mastering this recipe will elevate your culinary repertoire.

This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe allows you to recreate that restaurant magic right in your kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can serve up a delicious meal that rivals the original. Imagine perfectly cooked chicken with a crispy parmesan topping paired with fresh vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a meal that pleases everyone at the table and fits any occasion.

In this article, we will go through the essential ingredients and provide detailed step-by-step instructions to help you achieve the best results. We will also share serving and storage tips to ensure your dish stays fresh and flavorful. Get ready to impress yourself and others with this delectable copycat recipe that promises to be a hit!

Main Ingredients

Chicken Breasts

The star of our dish is the chicken breast. For this recipe, you’ll need about 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, each weighing approximately 6 ounces. It’s important to choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture. Using chicken breasts ensures even cooking and makes it easier to achieve that perfect crust.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese is what gives this dish its signature flavor. You will need about 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for this recipe. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged options and enhances the overall taste of the dish. The cheese creates a beautifully crispy topping when baked.

Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs add texture and crunch to your parmesan crusted chicken. For optimal results, use about 1 cup of plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs. This ingredient helps achieve that delightful crunch while also absorbing any juices from the chicken as it cooks.

Eggs

Eggs act as a binding agent in our recipe. You will need 2 large eggs for coating the chicken before breading it with cheese and breadcrumbs. Beating the eggs creates an adhesive layer that helps hold everything together while also contributing moisture.

Olive Oil

Using olive oil adds richness and aids in browning during baking. You will need about 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil for drizzling over the breaded chicken before baking it in the oven. This ingredient enhances flavor while ensuring you get that crispy exterior.

How to Prepare Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Proper preheating ensures even cooking throughout your dish. While waiting for the oven to reach temperature, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

As your oven warms up, take this time to prep your ingredients carefully. Start by washing your chicken breasts under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step removes excess moisture which can interfere with achieving a crispy crust later on.

Next, set up an assembly line for coating your chicken breasts efficiently. Place one bowl with beaten eggs beside another bowl containing mixed breadcrumbs and freshly grated parmesan cheese (combine equal parts). This setup speeds up the breading process while keeping things tidy in your kitchen.

Step 3: Coat Your Chicken Breasts

Now it’s time to coat each piece of chicken thoroughly! Begin by dipping one breast into the egg mixture until it’s fully coated; let any excess egg drip off before moving on to the breadcrumb mixture.

Gently press both sides of the coated chicken into the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture until fully covered; repeat this process for all four pieces of chicken until they are well-breaded on both sides.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden Brown

Once all of your chicken is coated nicely, place them on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer without overcrowding them—this allows proper airflow which leads towards even cooking! Drizzle each piece lightly with extra virgin olive oil before sliding them into your preheated oven.

Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through—use a meat thermometer if necessary; internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) when done!

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving Suggestions

When serving your delicious Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, consider complementing it with fresh sides! A garden salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette pairs well alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for added nutritional value.

Alternatively, creamy mashed potatoes can create an indulgent plate; add some gravy over them for an extra burst of flavor! For those who prefer something lighter yet refreshing—consider pairing this dish with lemon wedges—they enhance flavors beautifully!

Presentation matters too; arrange everything neatly on each plate before serving guests! Garnishing plates using fresh herbs such as parsley adds color while also hinting at freshness within each bite—a little goes a long way!

Storage Guidelines

If you happen to have leftovers after enjoying this scrumptious meal—or want to prepare ahead—you’ll want proper storage methods! First allow any remaining parmesan-crusted chickens cool down completely before transferring them into airtight containers or sealing bags designed specifically for freezing.

Store leftover portions in refrigeration where they can last for up three days—always label container contents so everyone knows what treasures await inside! If freezing leftovers instead—ensure they’re consumed within two months maximum timeframe before losing quality over time!

To reheat properly without sacrificing texture—oven reheating works best here—set temperatures around 350°F (175°C) until warmed through again while keeping crust crispy outside! Avoid microwaving unless absolutely necessary since doing so may lead sogginess rather than deliciousness everyone craves from first bite!

Mistakes to avoid

When preparing Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, certain mistakes can hinder your cooking experience and the dish’s final taste. One common mistake is not properly seasoning the chicken before cooking. Seasoning enhances flavor, so ensure you use salt, pepper, and any additional spices to elevate the chicken’s taste. Always season both sides and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking to infuse the flavors.

Another mistake is neglecting to preheat your oven or skillet adequately. Cooking the chicken in an unheated pan can result in uneven cooking and a less crispy crust. Ensure your pan or oven reaches the required temperature before placing your chicken inside. This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly golden brown exterior.

Using low-quality ingredients can also ruin this dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts and real Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated alternatives. Fresh cheese melts beautifully and provides a richer flavor, while fresh chicken ensures tenderness. Additionally, don’t skip on the breadcrumbs; using stale or low-quality breadcrumbs will lead to a disappointing texture.

Lastly, overcooking the chicken is a frequent error. Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough, detracting from its enjoyable texture. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F is the ideal temperature for juicy chicken. Remove it from heat slightly earlier than this temperature since it continues cooking while resting.

Tips and tricks

To master your Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, implement these tips and tricks. Start by choosing the right cut of chicken; boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook evenly and stay moist during baking or frying. For added flavor, consider brining your chicken in a simple mixture of water and salt for about 30 minutes before seasoning.

Next, create a flavorful crust by combining freshly grated Parmesan with seasoned breadcrumbs. Mixing herbs like parsley or Italian seasoning into your breadcrumb mixture can add depth to the flavor profile of the dish. Don’t be shy about coating your chicken generously with this mixture; a thicker crust yields better crunchiness.

Pay attention to cooking methods; both baking and pan-frying work well for this recipe, but each provides different textures. Baking allows for easier cleanup and healthier cooking, while pan-frying gives you that restaurant-quality crispiness. If you choose to bake, consider broiling it for the last few minutes to achieve that golden crust without drying out the interior.

Finally, allow your cooked chicken to rest before slicing it up. Resting lets juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in tender slices full of flavor when served. Cover it loosely with foil while resting for about five minutes before cutting into it.

Suggestions for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

When making Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’ll want to incorporate some helpful suggestions to enhance your dish further. Firstly, experiment with different types of cheese alongside Parmesan—like mozzarella or provolone—can provide an interesting twist on flavor while still retaining that cheesy goodness everyone loves.

Consider serving this dish with complementary sides such as garlic mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables to round out your meal. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance out the richness of the chicken nicely, creating a more well-rounded dining experience.

For those who enjoy some heat in their meals, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into your breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick of spice that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of Parmesan cheese.

If you’re looking to make this dish healthier without sacrificing taste, consider air-frying instead of traditional frying methods. An air fryer achieves similar crispiness using less oil while keeping calories lower—a win-win situation!

Lastly, don’t hesitate to prepare larger batches if you’re hosting guests or meal prepping for the week ahead. This dish freezes well; just ensure it’s fully cooled before storing in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months.

FAQs

What is Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a homemade version of a popular restaurant dish known for its crispy crust made from Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs over tender chicken breasts. The goal is to replicate that rich flavor and delectable texture found at Longhorn Steakhouse right in your kitchen.

How do I store leftover Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

To store leftover Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken properly, let it cool down completely after cooking; then transfer it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to three months if placed in freezer-safe containers or bags.

Can I make Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! You can easily make Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken gluten-free by substituting regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives made from rice flour or cornmeal. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free as needed.

What dipping sauces pair well with this dish?

Several dipping sauces complement Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken beautifully! Consider marinara sauce or garlic aioli as tasty options that enhance its flavors without overpowering them.

Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless skinless thighs are an excellent alternative when preparing Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken because they tend to be juicier than breasts due to their higher fat content while still allowing you to achieve that crispy crust everyone loves!

How long does it take to cook Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Cooking time varies depending on whether you bake or fry it; generally speaking, baking takes around 25-30 minutes at 400°F until fully cooked through while frying may require 6-8 minutes per side over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through completely!

Conclusion

Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken offers a delightful culinary experience right at home by replicating a beloved restaurant favorite. To achieve optimal results while making this dish requires avoiding common mistakes like improper seasoning and overcooking while incorporating helpful tips such as selecting quality ingredients and allowing resting time post-cooking.

Experimenting with various cheeses enhances flavors significantly alongside using complementary sides elevates overall presentation during mealtime gatherings too! By being mindful of storage suggestions—even freezing leftovers—you’ll enjoy leftovers just as much later on!

Incorporating these insights helps ensure every bite remains deliciously satisfying whether hosting friends or enjoying quiet evenings alone at home! Enjoy creating this classic comfort food staple today!

Print