Effortless Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe for Busy Nights

Effortless Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe for Busy Nights 🧀🍗⏱️

1. Introduction

Are you searching for a quick, delicious dinner that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant, but without the restaurant price? Look no further! This parmesan crusted chicken recipe, inspired by the famous Longhorn Steakhouse version, is the answer to your busy weeknight dinner dilemmas. It’s designed to deliver a satisfying crunch and a burst of savory flavor that will have the whole family asking for seconds. Forget spending hours in the kitchen wrestling with complicated meals; this easy parmesan chicken recipe is wonderfully straightforward, requires minimal effort, and utilizes ingredients you likely already have. This makes it the perfect, reliable choice when time is short and hunger is high. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out on your culinary journey, this baked parmesan chicken version (we’ll cover baking instructions too!) is destined to become a staple in your recipe collection. Prepare yourself to enjoy a fantastic Longhorn chicken recipe experience without any of the restaurant wait times or expense!

2. Why This Recipe Works

What makes this parmesan crusted chicken recipe so successful? It all boils down to simplicity and speed. We understand that weeknights are hectic, which is why this recipe is designed to use readily available ingredients and easy-to-master cooking techniques. This allows you to have a restaurant-quality meal on the table and ready to be devoured in under 30 minutes. The real secret to its deliciousness lies in the perfectly seasoned breadcrumb mixture. This mixture, when cooked correctly, creates an irresistible crispy, golden, flavorful crust that beautifully complements the juicy, tender chicken underneath. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors! Plus, this easy parmesan chicken recipe is incredibly versatile. You can effortlessly adapt it to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Serve it with pasta for a hearty meal, toss it on top of a fresh salad for a lighter option, or pair it with your favorite side dishes for a complete and satisfying dinner. For those seeking a healthier alternative, the baked parmesan chicken option offers the same great taste with less oil.

Craving other quick dinner ideas for those busy nights? Check out this garlic butter chicken and potatoes skillet recipe! OR if you’re looking for a completely different taste , check this creamy Beef and Shells Recipes.

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. Aim for breasts that are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best and most authentic flavor. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it often contains cellulose that can hinder melting and crust formation.
• Breadcrumbs: Use Italian-style breadcrumbs for an added layer of seasoning and flavor. Alternatively, plain breadcrumbs can be used, but be sure to season them generously with herbs and spices (see below).
• Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent, helping the breadcrumbs adhere flawlessly to the chicken breasts.
• All-purpose flour: A light coating of flour provides a base for the egg wash to stick to, ensuring maximum breadcrumb coverage.
• Garlic powder, Onion powder, Paprika: These essential spices enhance the overall flavor profile of the parmesan crust, adding depth and complexity.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste. Remember that Parmesan cheese is already quite salty, so start with a smaller amount of salt and adjust as needed.
• Olive Oil: For frying the chicken to golden-brown perfection. You can also use other oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil, but olive oil adds a subtle fruity flavor.

Thinking of making it a wrap? This Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps Recipe is very similar!

4. Equipment Needed

To ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process, here’s the equipment you’ll need:

• Shallow dishes or plates: These are essential for setting up your dredging station and coating the chicken breasts in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
• Large skillet: A large skillet is needed for frying the chicken. Choose one with a heavy bottom for even heat distribution.
• Tongs: Tongs are your best friend for flipping the chicken breasts safely and easily in the hot oil.
• Meat mallet (optional): If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, a meat mallet can be used to pound them to an even thickness. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly, preventing dry spots.

Feel free to check our Recipes page for more content.

5. Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions carefully for perfect parmesan crusted chicken every time!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by prepping your chicken breasts. If they are noticeably thick, you have two options: slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets, or use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness. Pounding the chicken not only helps it cook faster but also tenderizes the meat. Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch. Once flattened, season each chicken breast generously (but mindful of the salt content of the parmesan!) with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Don’t be shy with the spices – they are what give the crust its signature flavor. Next, set up your dredging station. In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs (whisk them lightly with a fork), and a mixture of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs (combine these in the third dish).

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Now comes the fun part – coating the chicken! Dredge each seasoned chicken breast in the flour, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. Shake off any excess flour to prevent a gummy crust. Then, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. This helps ensure a light and crispy coating. Finally, transfer the chicken to the dish with the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumb mixture. Coat the chicken thoroughly, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere properly. You want a nice, thick, even coating of crumbs for maximum flavor and texture. Following this parmesan crusted chicken recipe closely at this stage is crucial for achieving that signature crispy crust that everyone loves. Alternatively, this LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe recommends mayonnaise that you can also try.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. It’s important to use enough oil to prevent the chicken from sticking and to ensure even browning. Allow the oil to heat up completely; you should see it shimmering slightly. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy, unevenly cooked chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. This step is absolutely crucial for achieving the perfect crispy crust that makes this easy parmesan chicken so irresistible.

Are you more of a bake person? Baked Tuscan Chicken Casserole might be for you!

Step 4: Serve

Carefully remove the cooked parmesan crusted chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help maintain the crispness of the crust. Serve immediately while it’s hot and crispy! This Longhorn chicken recipe tastes absolutely fantastic with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with pasta tossed in marinara or Alfredo sauce, a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette, roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or carrots, or a simple side of mashed potatoes or rice. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a lemon wedge for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish and complements the savory parmesan crust.

For more dinner recipes click here!

6. Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Follow these expert tips to guarantee parmesan crusted chicken perfection every single time:

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the absolute best flavor. Pre-grated cheese often lacks the same depth of flavor and doesn’t melt as well.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Cook the chicken in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even browning.
• Make sure the oil is sufficiently hot before adding the chicken. This is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy crust. Test the oil by dropping a small breadcrumb into the skillet; it should sizzle immediately.
• For a healthier version, bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices in the breadcrumb mixture to customize the flavor to your liking. Dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and even a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a unique twist.

7. Variations and Substitutions

Here are some easy variations and substitutions to accommodate dietary needs and preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free all-purpose flour.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a fiery kick.
• Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic and flavorful crust.
• Cheese Variety: Use a blend of Parmesan and Romano cheese for a richer, more complex flavor profile. You can also add a sprinkle of Asiago cheese for a nutty taste.

8. Serving Suggestions

This easy parmesan chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs perfectly with a wide variety of sides. Some popular and delicious choices include:

• Pasta: Serve it over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne, with marinara sauce, Alfredo sauce, or a simple garlic and olive oil sauce.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers make a healthy and flavorful side dish.
• Fresh salad: A crisp and refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a perfect counterpoint to the richness of the chicken.
• Mashed potatoes or rice: Creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice are classic comfort food pairings that complement the chicken beautifully.

For more chicken recipes click here. Or try our Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie Recipe !

9. Conclusion

In conclusion, this parmesan crusted chicken recipe offers an effortless way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in the comfort of your own home. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. With its crispy, flavorful crust and juicy, tender chicken, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. The simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions mean that you can have a satisfying and impressive dinner on the table in no time. So, the next time you’re searching for a quick, satisfying, and family-friendly meal, give this Longhorn chicken recipe a try. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to recreate that restaurant classic without any of the restaurant fuss. Whether you choose to bake it for a healthier option or fry it for maximum crispiness, this baked parmesan chicken recipe is sure to become a cherished family favorite that you’ll turn to again and again!

Looking for another recipe with Shells? Try this Baked Stuffed Shells Recipe or this Beef Lombardi Casserole Recipe !

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