Introduction
Longhorn Steakhouse is a beloved chain known for its hearty, flavorful dishes, and one of their standout menu items is the Parmesan Chicken. This dish features juicy, tender chicken breast coated in a crispy, golden-brown Parmesan crust and often served with sides like mashed potatoes or vegetables. It’s a comforting, indulgent meal that has made its way into many home kitchens. If you’re craving this signature dish, making it at home can be both fun and rewarding.
The History of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Longhorn Steakhouse, founded in 1981, quickly became known for its casual yet high-quality steaks, seafood, and signature dishes. The Parmesan Chicken has been a customer favorite, combining the richness of Parmesan cheese with the tenderness of chicken. While it’s not one of the original menu items, it has become a staple over the years, fitting in with the restaurant’s emphasis on bold flavors and classic American comfort food.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s a list of the key ingredients needed to make Longhorn Steakhouse-style Parmesan Chicken:
- Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best flavor)
- Breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs provide a crispier texture)
- Eggs (used for dredging)
- Flour (for coating)
- Garlic powder (adds flavor to the crust)
- Italian seasoning (for that herby kick)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- Butter (for richness in the sauce)
- Heavy cream (for a creamy texture in the sauce)
- Chicken broth (for depth of flavor in the sauce)
- Parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper (for seasoning)
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Begin by flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Set up a breading station: in one bowl, place flour seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder; in a second bowl, beat the eggs; and in a third, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, dip in the egg, and coat thoroughly in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Make the Cream Sauce:
- In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add a little more garlic, if desired, and cook for about 30 seconds.
- Add heavy cream and chicken broth, simmering to reduce the sauce slightly.
- Stir in a handful of Parmesan cheese and a bit of Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Place the crispy chicken breasts on a plate and pour the creamy sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side salad.
Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Chicken
- Do not skip the dredging process! It’s essential for getting that crispy, golden crust.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese often doesn’t melt as well.
- Be careful not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender inside, with a crisp crust on the outside.
- For extra flavor in the sauce, consider adding a splash of white wine or lemon juice.
Variations and Customizations
- Add more herbs: Customize the crust by mixing in fresh or dried herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for an added depth of flavor.
- Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for the breading.
- Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breading mixture for a little heat.
- Stuffed Parmesan Chicken: You can stuff the chicken breasts with cheese, spinach, or other fillings before breading and frying for a more indulgent meal.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
While Longhorn’s Parmesan Chicken is delicious, it’s a calorie-dense dish, often rich in fats and carbohydrates due to the breading and creamy sauce. If you’re looking to make it a bit healthier, here are a few options:
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, flavorful alternative.
- Baked version: Instead of frying, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes for a lower-fat option.
- Use a lighter cream: Swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative to reduce fat and calories.
A typical serving of Parmesan Chicken (with sauce) might range between 600-800 calories, depending on portion size and specific ingredients used. This doesn’t include any sides, so be sure to factor those in if you’re calculating your total meal calories.
FAQ
Q: Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bread and fry the chicken ahead of time, then store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, just reheat in the oven or a skillet and top with the cream sauce.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: You can freeze the breaded (uncooked) chicken breasts for up to 3 months. After frying, the texture might change slightly when reheated, but it will still be tasty!
Q: Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative to maintain the richness of the sauce.