Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a deliciously crispy dish that brings the flavors of a restaurant favorite right into your home. Coated in a savory Parmesan breadcrumb mixture and topped with melted mozzarella and ranch dressing, this chicken dish is sure to please both family and guests. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup olive oil for frying
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup prepared ranch dressing for drizzling
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture.
4. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in the beaten eggs, and then coat with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy.
6. Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking sheet. Top each piece with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Drizzle ranch dressing over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 4 servings. The total time for preparation and cooking is approximately 40 minutes, including 15 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for cooking.

Variations

• Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy version.
• Alternative Cheeses: Substitute mozzarella with provolone or cheddar for a different cheese profile.
• Oven-Baked: For a healthier version, skip the frying step and bake the breaded chicken directly in the oven until crispy.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crispiness.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier texture.
2. What can I serve with this dish?
   It pairs well with a side salad, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Substitute the flour and Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
4. How can I tell if the chicken is cooked?
   The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
5. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
   You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it for a few hours before frying.
6. What if I don’t have Panko breadcrumbs?
   Regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the texture may be slightly different.
7. Is there a dairy-free option?
   You can use dairy-free cheese and breadcrumbs to make it dairy-free.
8. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
   Yes, simply bake the breaded chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until crispy.
9. How do I crush the Parmesan cheese?
   Grated Parmesan can be found pre-grated in stores, but you can also finely grate it yourself using a box grater.
10. What’s the best way to serve this chicken?
    Serve hot, drizzled with ranch dressing and garnished with parsley for a fresh touch.

Conclusion

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is an easy yet impressive dish that elevates any meal. With its crispy coating, melted cheese, and zesty ranch drizzle, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a satisfying option that everyone will love!

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