Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

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Why Make This Recipe

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a delectable dish that brings comfort food to a new level with its cheesy goodness and crispy texture. Many people love this meal for its rich flavors and ease of preparation. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you just want something delicious without much fuss. By making this dish at home, you can enjoy the restaurant-quality taste without the long wait and higher prices. Plus, it’s easy to customize according to your family’s likes and preferences.

How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Making Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is simple and quick. The recipe requires a few handy ingredients and can be prepared in just a few steps. There’s no need for gourmet cooking skills; this dish is so straightforward that anyone can master it. Below, you will find a detailed list of ingredients and easy steps to create this delightful meal in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

To make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup ranch dressing
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Follow these straightforward steps to make your own Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken:

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will allow the chicken to cook evenly and create a nice golden crust. While the oven is heating, prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Chicken: Season your chicken breasts by rubbing them with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Feel free to be generous with the spices as they will flavor the chicken beautifully. Once seasoned, place the chicken breasts in the greased baking dish, making sure they are spread out and not touching each other.
Mix the Cheeses: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and panko breadcrumbs. Mixing together these ingredients creates a delicious topping that adds both flavor and texture to your chicken.
Add the Ranch Dressing: Spread ranch dressing evenly over each chicken breast. The ranch dressing adds creamy moisture and tanginess, enhancing the overall flavor while helping the cheese and breadcrumbs stick better.
Top with Cheese Mixture: After applying the ranch dressing, generously sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture over the top of each chicken breast. Press down gently to help the toppings adhere to the chicken. This will ensure that all the delicious flavors meld during cooking.
Bake the Chicken: Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You want to keep an eye on the chicken to make sure it doesn’t overcook. Your chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Let It Rest: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, keeping it moist and tender.
Serve and Enjoy: After resting, your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is ready to serve. Plate it up and enjoy the delicious, crispy, cheesy goodness!

How to Serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Serving Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a breeze. You can make it the star of your meal by pairing it with a variety of sides. Some delicious options include:

Vegetables: Roasted or steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans complement the flavors of the chicken well.
Salad: A fresh garden salad or Caesar salad provides a crisp contrast to the rich chicken.
Potatoes: Garlic mashed potatoes or baked potatoes are excellent choices for a comforting side.
Rice: A fluffy side of rice, perhaps seasoned with herbs, can balance out the dish nicely.

Drizzling a bit of extra ranch dressing or a squeeze of lemon juice can add a zesty touch to your plate. Feel free to garnish your chicken with some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

How to Store Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

If you have leftovers (which is often the case as this dish makes great portions), it’s important to store them properly to keep them fresh.

Refrigeration: Allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature after cooking, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for about 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to keep the chicken for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap each piece in foil, place it in a freezer-safe bag, and label it with the date. It will last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

Tips to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t Rush Dressing: Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows the flavors to deepen. It may be tempting to dive right in, but a 5-minute wait is worth it.
Customize to Taste: You can add other spices, such as paprika, Italian seasoning, or even a bit of heat with cayenne pepper if you enjoy some spice.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese! Gouda or cheddar could add wonderful flavors.
Bread Crumb Alternatives: If you can’t find panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs can work too, though panko gives a lighter, crunchier texture.

Variations

While this recipe is fantastic as is, you may want to tweak it to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

Low-Carb Option: Substitute the breadcrumbs for crushed almonds or pork rinds for a lower-carb version.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure your ranch dressing is gluten-free as well if needed.
Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, plant-based cheese can replace the Parmesan and mozzarella.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they are tender and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Choose sides that complement the rich flavors of the chicken.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing it for up to three months.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking step and store it in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven.
What can I use instead of ranch dressing?
You can use a different creamy dressing like Caesar, blue cheese, or even some homemade sauce for a different flavor profile. Just be sure it’s something that you enjoy!

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a straightforward, delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its tasty combination of cheesy goodness and crispy texture will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy your cooking journey and the delightful meal!