Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Chicken is a delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of Parmesan-crusted chicken with a creamy, tangy sauce. This meal is known for its crispy texture on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. It’s a popular option for those looking for a hearty yet comforting meal at the steakhouse, and now you can recreate it at home!

The History of Ingredients

• Chicken: One of the most versatile proteins, chicken has been a staple in diets around the world for centuries. It’s prized for its mild flavor, ease of cooking, and ability to absorb various seasonings.
• Parmesan Cheese: Originating from Italy, Parmesan (Parmigiano-Reggiano) is a hard, aged cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a sharp, nutty flavor and is often grated over dishes to add rich, savory notes. It’s been a part of Italian cuisine for over 900 years, with the tradition of making it in the Emilia-Romagna region dating back to the 12th century.
• Breadcrumbs: The use of breadcrumbs for coating foods is found in many cultures, providing a crispy outer layer when fried or baked. Breadcrumbs are a great base for making a crunchy texture on proteins like chicken or fish.
• Garlic: Native to Central Asia, garlic has been used for over 5,000 years for culinary and medicinal purposes. Its strong, pungent flavor becomes mellow and sweet when cooked, which enhances the flavor of many dishes.
• Cream Sauce: Cream-based sauces are a key part of many Western and Italian dishes, often used to complement the richness of meat or pasta. A combination of heavy cream, butter, and seasonings results in a luscious sauce that brings everything together.

Breakdown of Ingredients

• Chicken Breast: The base of the dish, providing lean protein. Skinless, boneless chicken breasts are commonly used for their mild flavor and quick cooking time.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese creates a crispy, flavorful crust on the chicken. This cheese adds umami, depth, and sharpness.
• Breadcrumbs: Used to coat the chicken along with Parmesan, they create a golden and crispy exterior once baked or fried.
• Eggs: Eggs help the breadcrumbs and Parmesan adhere to the chicken, creating a perfect coating.
• Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the cream sauce with aromatic, savory flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Forms the base of the creamy sauce, adding richness and smoothness to the dish.
• Butter: Adds richness to the sauce and contributes to the smooth texture of the cream.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning are used to enhance the flavor of the chicken and sauce.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. If needed, gently pound the chicken to even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
2. Coat the chicken: In one shallow dish, combine the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat it with the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure the coating sticks.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the cream sauce: In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine and serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the chicken. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the sauce. Serve the Parmesan chicken with extra sauce on top and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Chicken

• Even coating: Ensure the chicken is fully coated in both the egg and breadcrumb mixture to get an even, crispy crust. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the chicken to help them adhere better.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When frying the chicken, don’t overcrowd the skillet. If needed, cook the chicken in batches to maintain a crisp, golden crust.
• Use fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan yields the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated Parmesan can be drier and less flavorful.
• Make the sauce ahead: If you prefer, you can make the cream sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving.
• Baking option: To reduce the oil used for frying, you can also bake the coated chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Variations and Customizations

• Add vegetables: Sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or zucchini can be served alongside or under the chicken for extra nutrients.
• Different cheese: Try mixing Parmesan with other cheeses like mozzarella or Asiago for a unique twist on the crust.
• Spicy option: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Low-carb version: Use almond flour or a low-carb breadcrumb substitute for a keto-friendly version of this dish.
• Make it gluten-free: Replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

• Chicken: Skinless, boneless chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, which helps in building muscle, maintaining healthy tissues, and boosting metabolism.
• Parmesan Cheese: While Parmesan adds a delicious depth of flavor, it is also high in sodium. Use it in moderation and be mindful of portion sizes.
• Heavy Cream: Heavy cream adds richness to the dish, but it is also high in saturated fat. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the cream with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt.
• Butter: While butter provides richness, it also contains saturated fat. You can reduce the amount or use a healthier fat like olive oil for a lighter dish.
• Calories and Fat: This dish is calorie-dense due to the cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a side of non-starchy vegetables like sautéed spinach or a light salad to balance the meal.

FAQ

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and the cream sauce ahead of time. Store the chicken in the refrigerator after frying, and reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve. You can also store the cream sauce separately in an airtight container in the fridge.

2. Can I freeze the Parmesan Chicken?
It’s not recommended to freeze the finished dish as the cream sauce may separate when reheated. However, you can freeze the cooked, un-sauced chicken breasts and then make fresh sauce when ready to serve.

3. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, Asiago, or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile, but Parmesan is traditional for this recipe.

4. How can I make this dish lighter?
To reduce calories and fat, use a lower-fat version of cream, cut back on butter, or bake the chicken instead of frying it.

5. What can I serve with this dish?
To complement the rich flavors of Parmesan Chicken, serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables, a light salad, or even cauliflower mash for a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.

Enjoy your Longhorn Steakhouse-inspired Parmesan Chicken with a side of your favorite veggies and a creamy, savory sauce!