Ah, the beloved Parmesan Chicken from Longhorn Steakhouse! Every time I sink my teeth into that crispy, cheesy goodness, I’m transported back to family nights out when I’d sit with loved ones, sharing laughs and good food. It’s one of those recipes that constantly has me daydreaming about dining out (even if I’m cozy in my kitchen). The great news is that I’ve cracked the code for a copycat recipe that you can whip up in the comfort of your home!
This dish is so versatile—it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress friends at a gathering. You can easily double or halve the ingredients based on your crowd. And let me tell you, the aroma that fills your home while this chicken bakes? Pure bliss!
### What’s in Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken?
Let’s take a peek at the ingredients that come together to create this marvelous dish:
Chicken Breasts: Juicy, boneless, skinless chicken breasts form the base of our dish. I recommend using organic chicken for a richer flavor and better quality.
Parmesan Cheese: This is where the magic truly begins! Grate it yourself if you can; the fresh stuff is way better than the pre-grated kind—trust me!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These provide the delightful crunch that makes this chicken so addictive. Regular breadcrumbs work too, but panko is light and airy, giving that perfect texture.
Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle goes a long way in adding that delicious garlicky depth. It’s a staple in my pantry!
Dried Herbs: A combination of Italian seasoning and/or dried thyme adds aromatic flavor that marries wonderfully with the cheese and chicken.
Eggs: Beaten to help the breading stick like a charm! I love using farm-fresh eggs for the best taste.
Olive Oil: A splash of this liquid gold adds richness and ensures a golden-brown crust.
### Is Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Good for You?
Absolutely! While it’s comforting and scrumptious, it also provides some health benefits:
Chicken Breasts: They’re a fantastic source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Just opt for skinless to keep things lighter.
Parmesan Cheese: In moderation, it’s rich in calcium and protein, plus it adds a whole lot of flavor, meaning you won’t need to use as much salt!
However, keep in mind that the breadcrumbs can make this a bit on the higher-carb side, so if you’re watching your carb intake, you can swap them out for something like crushed nuts for a gluten-free option.
### Ingredients List
Here’s what you need to serve 4:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried thyme)
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
### How to Make Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken?
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to whip up this glorious dish!
1. **Preheat your oven** to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. **Prepare the chicken**: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then season them with salt and pepper.
3. **Create the breading station**: In one shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. In another dish, beat the eggs together.
4. **Coat the chicken**: Dip each chicken breast in the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to coat well. Repeat with all the breasts.
5. **Arrange on baking sheet**: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each piece—it helps to get that nice, golden crust!
6. **Bake** for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). If you want an extra crispy finish, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
7. **Serve and enjoy**: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve. Pair it with a fresh salad or some garlic mashed potatoes for a feast!
### Crispy Tips and Twists
– **Make it spicy**: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix for a kick!
– **Veggie lovers, unite!**: You can add diced, sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the breadcrumb for an extra flavor twist.
– **Cheesy goodness**: Feel free to mix in a little mozzarella cheese with the Parmesan for an extra cheesy surprise!
I hope you try this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking! Share your culinary adventures with me, and let’s keep the tradition of deliciousness alive!
