Introduction:
If you’re looking for a delicious, restaurant-quality chicken dish to make at home, look no further than Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This recipe combines juicy, marinated chicken breasts with a rich, cheesy crust that is sure to impress your family and friends. Perfect for a special dinner or a satisfying weeknight meal, this dish brings the flavors of a steakhouse right to your kitchen.
Overview of the Recipe:
Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a savory dish featuring marinated chicken breasts that are seared to golden perfection and topped with a flavorful parmesan crust. The marinade adds depth and tenderness to the chicken, while the parmesan crust provides a delightful crunch and cheesy richness. This recipe is easy to follow and delivers impressive results every time.
History and Origin:
Longhorn Steakhouse, a popular American restaurant chain, is known for its high-quality steaks and flavorful dishes. One of their standout offerings is the Parmesan Crusted Chicken. While the exact origins of the recipe are proprietary to the restaurant, its popularity has inspired many home cooks to recreate this dish. The combination of Italian-inspired flavors and American culinary techniques makes this dish a beloved favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Marinade:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
For the Parmesan Crust:
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, chopped into bits
- 1/2 cup Provolone cheese, chopped into bits
- 6 tablespoons Buttermilk Ranch salad dressing (regular Ranch is also fine)
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Marinade:
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, distilled white vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and pepper until well combined and uniform in consistency.
- Pound the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a gallon freezer bag, remove the air, and seal. Use a meat tenderizer to pound each breast to about 1/2 inch thick. Note that the chicken will plump up more when cooked.
- Season the Chicken:
- Lightly sprinkle each side of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper if desired.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the seasoned chicken in a new freezer bag and add the prepared marinade. Seal out the air and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. A cast iron skillet is recommended for the best sear.
- Sear the chicken on each side for 4-5 minutes, refraining from moving the chicken around as it cooks to achieve a nice golden sear. If the pan gets too hot, reduce the heat to medium.
- Once each side is golden brown and the middle is cooked through, transfer the chicken to a clean skillet or baking sheet and tent with foil to keep warm.
Add the Parmesan Crust:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to a low broil setting (450°F).
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- Combine the Parmesan and Provolone cheeses with the ranch dressing. Stir to combine and microwave in 15-second increments, stirring in between, until melted. A slightly lumpy consistency is acceptable.
- Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and panko breadcrumbs. Stir this mixture into the warm cheese mixture.
- Top the Chicken:
- Add the cheese and breadcrumb mixture to the top of the seared chicken breasts.
- Broil the Chicken:
- Broil the chicken for 3-4 minutes, or until the top begins to brown and crisp.
Serving:
Once the chicken is broiled to perfection, serve it hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions:
Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some suggestions:
- Vegetable Sides: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts complement the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Starch Sides: Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or creamy risotto provide a satisfying base for the dish.
- Salads: A crisp Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
Variations of the Recipe:
While the original recipe is delicious as is, here are some variations you can try:
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade and a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Crusted: Mix chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary into the breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic twist.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or Gruyère for a unique flavor profile.
Health Benefits:
- High Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Calcium-Rich: The cheese in the crust provides a good amount of calcium, important for bone health.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil in the marinade contains healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Notes:
- For a baked version, preheat the oven to 375°F and bake the marinated chicken breasts for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- For a grilled version, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Q: How long can I marinate the chicken? A: For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but you can marinate it overnight for more flavor.
Q: Can I make the Parmesan crust mixture ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the cheese and breadcrumb mixtures ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and broil just before serving.
Conclusion:
Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the taste of a steakhouse meal to your home kitchen. With its tender, marinated chicken and crunchy, cheesy crust, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is a surefire way to impress and satisfy. Give it a try, and savor the delicious flavors of this restaurant-inspired meal.