Introduction
Let’s talk about comfort food, shall we? But not just any comfort food—let’s dive into Longhorn Steakhouse’s Chicken Parmesan. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of dining at Longhorn Steakhouse, then you already know they’ve truly mastered the art of creating a crispy, cheesy, and downright irresistible chicken parmesan. What makes it so special, you ask? Well, it’s one of those dishes that perfectly combines everything we crave: tender chicken, a crispy coating, gooey cheese, and a tomato sauce that tastes like it was simmered with love. Plus, when all these elements come together, it’s like a symphony of flavors on your plate. Learn more about balancing flavors in dishes with our guide to Southern Chow Chow.
Now, let’s face it—eating out every time you crave this dish isn’t practical (or budget-friendly). That’s why I’m here to show you how to recreate this masterpiece in your own kitchen. You’ll get the same great flavors, but with a little extra pride because, well, you made it. And trust me, it’s easier than you think. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients Breakdown: Longhorn Steakhouse Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Here’s your ultimate shopping list, complete with all the exact measurements you’ll need to recreate the magic of Longhorn Steakhouse’s Chicken Parmesan at home. First, make sure to gather all the listed items, and next, double-check that everything is fresh. Additionally, don’t forget that using the freshest ingredients will ensure the best results! Finally, get ready to bring this delicious dish to life in your own kitchen.
The Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
The Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, but highly recommended)
The Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil (or 2 teaspoons fresh basil, chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Splash of red wine (about 2 tablespoons, optional)
The Cheese Topping:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions, and before you know it, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish sitting on your table.
1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pound the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet (or a rolling pin in a pinch), gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about ½ inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.
(Pro Tip: If the chicken breasts are very large, you can slice them in half horizontally for smaller portions.) - Season the Chicken:
Mix the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts.
2: Set Up the Breading Station
- Prepare Three Bowls:
- Bowl 1: Add the all-purpose flour.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs with a splash of water to make them smooth.
- Bowl 3: Combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly so the coating sticks well.
(Pro Tip: Let the breaded chicken rest on a plate for 5 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better during cooking.)
3: Fry the Chicken
- Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat ¼ cup of olive oil over medium heat. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke. - Cook the Chicken:
Add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet (don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed). Fry for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. - Drain Excess Oil:
Remove the chicken and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil.
4: Make the Tomato Sauce
- Sauté the Aromatics:
In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. - Simmer the Sauce:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, red pepper flakes, oregano, and basil. Add a splash of red wine (if using) for depth of flavor. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Season to Taste:
Add salt and pepper to adjust the flavor to your liking.
5: Assemble the Chicken Parmesan
- Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Layer the Dish:
In a baking dish, first, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Next, place the fried chicken breasts on top. Then, spoon more tomato sauce over each piece of chicken, ensuring they’re fully covered. Finally, make sure every bite is packed with saucy goodness! - Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken, followed by freshly grated Parmesan.
6: Bake to Perfection
- Bake the Chicken Parmesan:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown. - Garnish:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Pro Tips for Success and Perfect Side Dish Pairings
Now that you’ve got your Longhorn Steakhouse-style chicken parmesan baked to perfection, let’s level up with some insider tips to make this meal unforgettable. Plus, I’ll share side dish ideas that complement this dish perfectly.
Pro Tips for Success
1. Don’t Skip Pounding the Chicken
Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and keeps it juicy. Uneven chicken can result in dry, overcooked edges while the thicker parts stay undercooked. Trust me—this step is worth the effort!
2. Keep One Hand Dry
When breading the chicken, use one hand for wet ingredients (eggs) and the other for dry (flour and breadcrumbs). This keeps the breading process smooth and prevents clumps from forming on your fingers.
3. Use Fresh Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese may save time, but it often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Opt for fresh mozzarella and grate your Parmesan—it makes a huge difference in flavor and texture.
4. Make the Sauce Ahead
If you’re short on time, you can prepare the tomato sauce a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to assemble the dish.
5. Watch the Baking Time
Overbaking can dry out the chicken. Check on it after 15 minutes to ensure the cheese is melted and bubbly, but not overcooked. If the cheese isn’t browning, switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
6. Rest Before Serving
Let the chicken parmesan rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese and sauce to settle, making it easier to plate and enjoy without burning your mouth!
Perfect Side Dish Pairings
1. Garlic Bread
You really can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread. To start, use a fresh baguette or Italian loaf. Next, slice it up and generously slather it with garlic butter, which is made by mixing melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Then, pop it in the oven and toast it for 5–7 minutes. Finally, you’ll have the perfect companion for soaking up that rich, flavorful tomato sauce.
2. Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad perfectly complements the richness of the chicken parmesan, adding a refreshing crunch to the meal. To begin, toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, and freshly grated Parmesan. For an extra touch of deliciousness, bonus points if you make your croutons at home!
3. Spaghetti or Fettuccine
For a classic pairing, you can serve your chicken parmesan with a side of spaghetti or fettuccine. Next, toss the pasta with any leftover tomato sauce to create a more cohesive meal. As a result, you’ll have a dish that’s simple, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying.
4. Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans
If you’re looking for a lighter side, then steamed vegetables are a great choice. To enhance their flavor, sprinkle them with a little garlic salt and drizzle with olive oil. As a result, you’ll have a quick and healthy addition to your plate.
5. Roasted Potatoes
For a non-traditional twist, try roasted baby potatoes. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and a pinch of salt before roasting them until crispy. They’re a delightful, starchy complement to the chicken.
Why Side Dishes Matter
Pairing the right sides with your chicken parmesan not only rounds out the meal but also creates a restaurant-quality experience at home. The key is balancing rich flavors with something fresh or starchy for a harmonious plate.
FAQs About Longhorn Steakhouse Chicken Parmesan Recipe
As much as we all love cooking, questions always pop up when trying out a new recipe—especially one as beloved as chicken parmesan. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you nail this dish every time.
1. Does Longhorn Have Parmesan Chicken?
Yes, Longhorn Steakhouse serves a parmesan-crusted chicken dish that’s incredibly popular. While it’s not exactly the same as a traditional chicken parmesan, it does feature juicy chicken topped with a delicious, cheesy crust. Additionally, the dish often comes with flavorful sides that make it even more satisfying.
2. What’s the Difference Between Chicken Parmesan and Chicken Parmigiana?
Actually, there’s no real difference between chicken parmesan and chicken parmigiana—they’re the same dish! The name “chicken parmigiana” is the traditional Italian term, while “chicken parmesan” is the Americanized version. In both cases, the dish features breaded chicken, tomato sauce, and melted cheese, though recipes may vary slightly depending on the region or restaurant.
3. How Do You Keep Breading on Chicken Parmesan?
To keep the breading from falling off, it’s important to follow a few key steps. First, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before breading it, as this helps the coating stick better. Next, make sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken after dipping it in the egg mixture. Lastly, letting the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before frying ensures the coating adheres properly during cooking.
4. How Much Is the Parmesan-Crusted Chicken at Longhorn?
The price of parmesan-crusted chicken at Longhorn Steakhouse can vary by location, but it typically costs around $15 to $18. Additionally, this price usually includes sides like mashed potatoes or a salad, which makes it a great value for a hearty and flavorful meal. For the most accurate pricing, it’s best to check your local Longhorn’s menu or give them a quick call.
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate guide to making Longhorn Steakhouse-style Chicken Parmesan right in your kitchen! First of all, with its tender, juicy chicken, crispy golden coating, rich tomato sauce, and gooey, cheesy topping, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Furthermore, not only is it fun to make, but it also effortlessly brings the flavors of your favorite steakhouse to your dining table. In conclusion, this recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a comforting and flavorful meal.
Whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner, date night, or just because you’re craving comfort food, this recipe is sure to deliver. And remember, the beauty of homemade meals lies in the flexibility—so feel free to add your own spin, like extra spices or unique side dishes.
Now, it’s your turn! Try it out, tweak it to your taste, and let your kitchen smell like an Italian dream. Honestly, once you make this, you might not feel the need to head to Longhorn Steakhouse for a while—your homemade version might just be that good! Happy cooking!