Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delicious hit you can make at home. With a crispy, cheesy crust and juicy chicken, it’s an easy dish that impresses. In this post, I’ll guide you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and even some tips to make it your own. Let’s dive into this flavorful delight that everyone will love!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons melted butter
The ingredients for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken are simple and easy to find. Each ingredient brings its own flavor. The chicken breasts are the star, providing a juicy base. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty taste. Panko breadcrumbs give a nice crunch.
Garlic powder enhances the flavor. Dried oregano and thyme add herbal notes. Paprika gives a slight warmth and color. Eggs and milk create a smooth wash. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color at the end.
You can adjust salt and pepper to suit your taste. I love to use fresh parsley as a garnish. It brightens the dish and makes it look pretty.
This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any night. You can find the full recipe for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken in this article. Enjoy these flavors in your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Chicken
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy. Next, take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step removes excess moisture. Then, use a meat mallet to gently pound each breast to an even thickness. Aim for about half an inch. This ensures every piece cooks at the same rate. Season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
Coating Mixture
In a large bowl, mix one cup of grated Parmesan cheese with one cup of panko breadcrumbs. Use a fork to combine them well. Add in two teaspoons of garlic powder, one teaspoon of dried oregano, one teaspoon of dried thyme, and half a teaspoon of paprika. These spices add depth to the flavor. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings to fit your personal taste.
Egg Wash Process
In another bowl, crack two large eggs and add a quarter cup of milk. Whisk them together until they blend well. This egg wash helps the coating stick to the chicken. After dipping the chicken, let any excess egg mixture drip off. This step is key for a nice, crispy crust.
Arranging for Baking
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easier and helps prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken breasts on the sheet, ensuring they are spaced out. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece. For a golden crust, lightly spray the tops with olive oil or brush on melted butter.
Baking Process
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Keep an eye on the crust; it should be golden and crispy.
Final Touches
Once baked, let the chicken rest for about five minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. For an added touch, serve the chicken on a bed of arugula or mixed greens. You can even add lemon wedges on the side for a fresh burst. Enjoy your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken! For the complete recipe, refer to the Full Recipe section.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
To make your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken shine, adjust the seasonings. You can add more garlic powder for a bolder taste or a pinch of cayenne for heat. If you want to switch up the cheese, try using Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano. Both add a unique twist. For a gluten-free option, swap panko with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve that crunchy crust, spray the coating lightly with olive oil before baking. This helps it brown nicely. Let the chicken rest for about five minutes after baking. This step allows the juices to settle and keeps the meat moist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. A fresh salad with arugula and cherry tomatoes also works well. For plating, place the chicken on a bed of greens. Add lemon wedges to brighten the dish. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can elevate the flavor and visual appeal.
For the full recipe, check the earlier section. Enjoy your cooking!
Variations
Different Cheese Options
You can change the cheese for different tastes. Parmesan is great, but you can try others too. Pecorino Romano adds a salty bite. Cheddar gives it a creamy twist. Mixing cheeses can boost flavor and texture. A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan makes it gooey and delicious. You can even experiment with some blue cheese for a bold kick.
Making it Healthier
If you want a lighter meal, there are easy swaps. Use skinless chicken thighs for more flavor but keep it lean. For a low-calorie dish, reduce the amount of cheese. You can also use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of panko. They add good fiber and taste. For gluten-free options, try almond flour or crushed cornflakes as your coating.
Spicing It Up
Want to add some heat? Mix chili powder or cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mix. This will give your chicken a spicy crunch. You can also brush on some hot sauce before coating. This adds a nice kick. For marinades, try a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and hot sauce before coating the chicken. It brings out great flavor!
For the Full Recipe, check the main section above.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After you enjoy your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, let it cool. This step helps keep the food safe. Place the chicken in an airtight container. If you have more than one piece, layer them with parchment paper. This keeps them from sticking together. Always refrigerate leftovers within two hours. The chicken can stay fresh for up to three days.
Reheating Instructions
When it comes to reheating, you have two main options: the microwave or the oven. The microwave is quick but can make the crust soggy. If you prefer a crispy finish, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes. Check that it reaches 165°F (74°C) inside. For best results, cover it with foil to keep moisture in while allowing the crust to stay crunchy. Enjoy your flavorful delight again!
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Preparing Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken takes about 15 minutes. Cooking it in the oven takes around 20 to 25 minutes. In total, you’ll spend about 30 to 40 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal.
Can I freeze the Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze this chicken. Allow it to cool completely after baking. Wrap it well in plastic wrap or foil. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven for best results.
What to serve with Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
You can serve this chicken with many tasty sides. Try a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. You could also pair it with rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. Lemon wedges add a nice touch for a burst of flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store portions in the fridge. It stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Just reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to eat.
What makes Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken so popular?
The taste of Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a big draw. The crispy crust adds a nice texture, while the Parmesan gives it a rich flavor. It’s easy to make and looks beautiful on a plate. The combination of simple ingredients makes it a family favorite. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.
This blog post guides you through making Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. We covered the key ingredients, easy steps to prepare, and tips for a perfect dish. You learned about variations and how to store leftover chicken.
In the end, this chicken is not just tasty; it’s fun to make. You can impress family and friends with this recipe. With simple adjustments, you make it your own. Enjoy the cooking process and savor the results!