LongHorn Steakhouse is well-known for its flavorful, comforting dishes, and the Parmesan Chicken is no exception. This dish combines crispy breaded chicken breasts topped with a rich, cheesy sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re looking to replicate the restaurant-style experience or simply indulge in a comforting homemade meal, this recipe will guide you through every step.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup Italian bread crumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
For the Sauce:
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnishing:
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Crusty bread or garlic bread (optional)
Optional side salad or pasta
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
To start, prepare the chicken breasts for breading. Gently pat the chicken with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will ensure a crispier coating when cooked.
In three separate bowls or shallow plates, set up a breading station: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
Dip each chicken breast into the flour first, making sure to coat it evenly. Then, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated.
Heat olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Prepare the Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the Parmesan sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, heat the marinara sauce until it starts to simmer.
Add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese has fully melted into the sauce. Season with dried oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together to create a smooth, flavorful sauce.
Once the sauce is ready, reduce the heat to low, allowing it to stay warm while you finish assembling the chicken.
- Assemble the Parmesan Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a baking dish and spread a thin layer of the prepared Parmesan sauce at the bottom.
Place each crispy breaded chicken breast into the baking dish. Pour a generous amount of the cheesy marinara sauce over the top of each chicken breast, making sure to cover them completely. Sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top for an even more indulgent finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is heated through. If you prefer a slightly golden crust, you can turn on the broiler for the last few minutes of baking.
- Garnish and Serve:
Once baked to perfection, remove the Parmesan chicken from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for added freshness and color. Serve immediately with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. A simple side salad or pasta also complements this dish beautifully.
Tips and Variations:
Chicken Options: If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful alternative.
Spicy Twist: Add more crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
Cheese Variations: Swap out the mozzarella or Parmesan for other cheeses like gouda, fontina, or provolone for a unique twist.
Make-Ahead: Bread and fry the chicken ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat with the sauce in the oven.
Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based chicken alternative, like chickpea patties or meatless chicken cutlets, and follow the same steps for breading and baking.
Conclusion:
LongHorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Chicken is a comforting, indulgent dish that’s easy to recreate at home with a few simple steps. From the crispy, flavorful breading to the rich, cheesy sauce, every bite offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe ensures a satisfying and delicious experience.