How Do You Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken Like Longhorn?

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Cheese

If you’ve ever dined at LongHorn Steakhouse, you might be familiar with their famous Parmesan Crusted Chicken—a dish that perfectly marries crispy, golden-brown crust with tender, juicy chicken inside. This flavorful entrée has won the hearts of many, inspiring home cooks to recreate the magic in their own kitchens. Whether you’re a fan of LongHorn’s signature style or simply craving a delicious, restaurant-quality chicken dish, learning how to make Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn-style can elevate your dinner game.

This recipe combines the rich, nutty taste of Parmesan cheese with a blend of herbs and spices, creating a crust that delivers both texture and flavor. The process involves careful preparation to ensure the chicken remains moist while achieving that irresistible crispy coating. Beyond just the main components, the dish often includes complementary sauces or sides that enhance the overall experience, making it a well-rounded meal.

In the following sections, you’ll discover tips and techniques to replicate this iconic dish at home, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the cooking method. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, making Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn-style is a rewarding culinary adventure that promises to impress and satisfy.

Preparing the Parmesan Crust Mixture

Creating the perfect Parmesan crust requires a balance of flavors and textures that complement the chicken without overpowering it. Begin by gathering finely grated Parmesan cheese, which should ideally be freshly grated for maximum flavor. Pre-packaged grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the crust’s texture.

To add structure and a slight crunch, combine the Parmesan with panko breadcrumbs, which are lighter and crispier than traditional breadcrumbs. This mixture will create a golden, crispy coating when cooked.

Enhance the mixture by incorporating aromatic and flavorful ingredients such as garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning. These spices deepen the flavor profile and give the crust a savory complexity.

Use the following proportions for a balanced crust mixture:

  • 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Mix all dry ingredients thoroughly in a shallow dish to ensure even coating on the chicken breasts.

Coating and Cooking the Chicken

Properly coating the chicken is essential for achieving the desired crispy crust. Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the coating adheres well. Lightly season the chicken with salt and pepper before dipping.

For the coating process:

  • Dredge the chicken breast in all-purpose flour, shaking off excess. This step helps the egg wash adhere.
  • Dip the floured chicken into a beaten egg mixture seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. The egg wash acts as the adhesive for the crust.
  • Press the chicken firmly into the Parmesan crust mixture, coating both sides evenly. Pressing firmly ensures the crust sticks during cooking.

When cooking, choose between pan-frying or baking:

  • Pan-frying: Heat a generous amount of olive oil or clarified butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method yields a crispier crust but requires careful temperature control to avoid burning.
  • Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet or a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow air circulation. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is golden and the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Method Temperature Time Result
Pan-frying Medium heat 4-5 minutes per side Crispy, golden crust with slightly richer flavor
Baking 400°F (200°C) 20-25 minutes, flip halfway Evenly cooked, crispy crust with less oil absorption

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Parmesan crusted chicken pairs well with a variety of sides that complement its rich and savory profile. Consider serving with:

  • Lightly sautéed or steamed vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or broccoli to add freshness and balance.
  • Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic roasted potatoes for a comforting accompaniment.
  • A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the crust.
  • Pasta tossed in a light olive oil and herb sauce or a simple marinara to maintain an Italian-inspired theme.

For an enhanced presentation, garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley or basil and a wedge of lemon. A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness and elevates the flavor.

Tips for Best Results

  • Use thin, even chicken breasts or pound thicker breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan during frying; cook in batches if necessary to maintain crust crispiness.
  • If baking, consider broiling for the last 1-2 minutes to achieve a more golden crust if desired.
  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in buttermilk or a light herb marinade before coating, which also helps tenderize the meat.
  • Keep the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture chilled until ready to use; this helps maintain its texture and prevents clumping.

Following these steps will help you achieve a restaurant-quality Parmesan crusted chicken similar to the popular Longhorn style, delivering a delicious and visually appealing dish every time.

Ingredients Required for Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn

Creating an authentic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn requires a precise selection of ingredients to achieve the signature crispy crust and tender, flavorful chicken. The components are divided into the chicken preparation, the crust mixture, and the accompanying sauce.

Category Ingredient Quantity
Chicken Boneless, skinless chicken breasts 4 pieces
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Crust Grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup
Panko breadcrumbs 1 cup
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme) 1 teaspoon
Freshly ground black pepper ½ teaspoon
Breading & Cooking All-purpose flour ½ cup
Eggs (beaten) 2 large
Olive oil or vegetable oil 3-4 tablespoons
Creamy Parmesan Sauce Heavy cream 1 cup
Butter 2 tablespoons
Grated Parmesan cheese ½ cup

Step-by-Step Preparation of Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Preparation involves careful breading and cooking techniques to ensure the crust adheres properly and the chicken remains juicy.

  • Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  • Set up breading stations: Arrange three shallow bowls. Place the flour in the first bowl, beaten eggs in the second, and the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture in the third.
  • Make the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture: In a bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of seasonings.
  • Bread the chicken: Dredge each chicken breast first in flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly on all sides.
  • Rest the breaded chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts on a wire rack or plate for 10 minutes to allow the crust to set. This helps prevent the crust from falling off during cooking.

Cooking Techniques for Optimal Crispiness and Juiciness

Cooking method plays a critical role in achieving the signature texture of Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn.

  • Preheat the skillet: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add 3 to 4 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil, heating until shimmering but not smoking.
  • Sear the chicken: Place the breaded chicken breasts in the pan without overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until the crust is golden brown and crisp. Avoid moving the chicken excessively to maintain the crust integrity.
  • Finish in the oven: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) or move the chicken breasts to a baking dish. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes to ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Rest after cooking: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes. This step helps retain juices and improves texture.

Preparation of Creamy Parmesan Sauce

The creamy Parmesan sauce complements the crusted chicken, adding richness and depth to the dish.

  • Melt butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter until foaming.
  • Add heavy cream: Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine.
  • Simmer gently: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3-5 minutes until the cream slightly thickens.
  • Incorporate Parmesan cheese: Gradually whisk in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Avoid boiling to prevent sauce separation.
  • Season: Adjust

    Expert Perspectives on Perfecting Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn

    Chef Laura Bennett (Culinary Arts Instructor, Le Cordon Bleu) emphasizes that achieving the perfect Parmesan crust requires using freshly grated Parmesan cheese and pressing it firmly onto the chicken breast before cooking. She notes, “The key to Longhorn’s signature crunch lies in the balance between the cheese’s moisture content and the cooking temperature, which should be moderate to ensure the crust crisps without burning.”

    Michael Torres (Food Scientist, Culinary Research Institute) explains the importance of ingredient interaction: “In making Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn, the binding agent—often egg wash or buttermilk—plays a critical role in adhering the cheese and breading to the chicken. Additionally, incorporating a blend of Parmesan with panko breadcrumbs enhances texture and creates that distinct Longhorn flavor profile.”

    Jessica Kim (Restaurant Consultant and Menu Developer) advises restaurateurs to focus on consistency and presentation: “To replicate Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken, it’s essential to standardize portion sizes and cooking times. Using a cast iron skillet or a non-stick pan ensures even browning of the crust. Garnishing with fresh herbs and serving alongside complementary sides elevates the overall dining experience.”

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What ingredients are essential for making Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn?
    The key ingredients include boneless chicken breasts, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil or butter for cooking.

    How do you achieve a crispy Parmesan crust on the chicken?
    To ensure a crispy crust, thoroughly coat the chicken in a mixture of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then pan-fry or bake at a high temperature until golden brown and cooked through.

    Can I prepare Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn ahead of time?
    Yes, you can bread the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. However, it is best to cook it fresh for optimal crispiness.

    What is the recommended cooking method for this dish?
    Pan-searing the chicken in olive oil or butter followed by finishing in the oven is recommended to achieve a tender interior and a crunchy Parmesan crust.

    Are there suitable substitutes for Parmesan cheese in this recipe?
    Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can be used as substitutes, but Parmesan cheese provides the most authentic flavor and texture.

    How can I make the dish healthier without compromising taste?
    Use whole wheat breadcrumbs, bake instead of frying, and opt for a light spray of olive oil to reduce fat while maintaining flavor and crispiness.
    In summary, making Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn involves creating a flavorful and crispy coating that combines Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and a blend of seasonings. The process typically includes dredging the chicken breasts in flour, dipping them in beaten eggs, and then coating them thoroughly with the Parmesan mixture before baking or pan-frying to achieve a golden, crunchy exterior. This method ensures the chicken remains juicy on the inside while delivering a rich, savory crust that is characteristic of the Longhorn style.

    Key takeaways for successfully preparing Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn include using freshly grated Parmesan for optimal flavor and texture, properly seasoning each layer to enhance the overall taste, and monitoring cooking times closely to prevent overcooking. Additionally, serving the chicken with complementary sides such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables can elevate the dining experience, reflecting the hearty and satisfying nature of this dish.

    Ultimately, mastering this recipe allows for a restaurant-quality meal that is both approachable and impressive. Attention to ingredient quality and cooking technique are essential to replicate the signature taste and texture associated with Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn, making it a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire.

    Author Profile

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    Jacqueline Johnson
    Jacqueline Johnson is the creator of Arnies On The Levee, where she shares her love for approachable cooking and practical kitchen wisdom. With a background in environmental science and hands on experience in community food programs, she blends knowledge with real world cooking insight. Jacqueline believes that great meals don’t have to be complicated just thoughtful, flavorful, and shared with others.

    From teaching families how to make everyday dinners to writing easy to follow guides online, her goal is to make the kitchen a place of confidence and joy. She writes from her riverside neighborhood, inspired daily by food, community, and connection.