Longhorn Steakhouse-Inspired Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe as they cook quickly and remain juicy inside.
• All-purpose flour: Used for dredging the chicken to help the egg wash adhere.
• Eggs: The egg wash helps bind the crust to the chicken and adds moisture.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan is key for the perfect crispy, cheesy crust. It’s flavorful and adds that signature savory taste.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs, giving the chicken its crunchy texture.
• Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor that complements the cheese.
• Onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor and adds a subtle sweetness.
• Dried oregano: A pinch of oregano gives the dish a hint of Mediterranean flavor.
• Salt and pepper: To season the chicken and the coating.

For the Sauce:

• Butter: To melt over the cooked chicken and add richness.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley for garnish, adding freshness and color.
• Lemon juice: A squeeze of lemon juice enhances the flavor of the dish and balances the richness of the crust.

How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse-Inspired Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the chicken breasts. If they are particularly thick, you can butterfly them or lightly pound them to an even thickness for more consistent cooking.

Next, set up a dredging station. In one shallow bowl, place flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a second bowl, whisk together eggs. In a third bowl, combine parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. Mix well.

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

Take each chicken breast and first dip it into the flour mixture, coating it lightly on both sides. Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, dredge the chicken in the parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crust sticks. Repeat for each chicken breast.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Since the chicken will continue to cook in the oven, you don’t need to cook it all the way through in the skillet—just get that crispy, golden exterior.

After the chicken has a nice crust, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Butter Sauce

While the chicken is baking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add a squeeze of lemon juice and stir. Add a pinch of salt and fresh parsley to the butter sauce. This simple sauce will be drizzled over the chicken for added flavor and richness.

Step 5: Serve the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, remove it from the oven. Plate the chicken breasts and drizzle the melted butter sauce over the top. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for color and a fresh burst of flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

1. Use Fresh Parmesan: While pre-grated parmesan is convenient, freshly grated parmesan cheese will give you a much more flavorful and crispier crust.
2. Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken in the skillet, make sure there’s enough space between each chicken breast. Overcrowding the pan can cause the chicken to steam instead of crisping up.
3. Panko for Extra Crispiness: For the crispiest crust, always use panko breadcrumbs. They’re lighter and fluffier than traditional breadcrumbs and give the chicken that perfect crunch.
4. Test for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
5. Customizable Crust: Add your favorite spices or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for a personalized twist on the flavor profile. Fresh thyme or rosemary would also work well.
6. Serve with Sides: This Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love Longhorn Steakhouse-Inspired Parmesan Crusted Chicken

1. Restaurant-Quality Flavor: This dish brings the flavors of a steakhouse right into your own home. The crispy, cheesy crust is perfectly complemented by the juicy chicken, making every bite indulgent.
2. Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a gourmet meal that tastes like it’s from a high-end restaurant. No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients—just quality ingredients that come together beautifully.
3. Quick and Easy: In less than 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, crispy chicken dinner ready to serve. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re cooking for your family, a special date night, or a gathering with friends, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken is sure to be a hit. It’s versatile and suitable for any occasion.

Final Thoughts:

Longhorn Steakhouse-Inspired Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the kind of dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the need for complicated techniques or ingredients. With its crispy parmesan crust and tender chicken, it’s a simple yet indulgent meal that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a fresh salad, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Give it a try tonight, and enjoy a taste of steakhouse luxury from the comfort of your own home!