LongHorn Steakhouse Chicken Parmesan

LongHorn Steakhouse’s Chicken Parmesan is a hearty and comforting dish that combines crispy breaded chicken, gooey melted cheese, and tangy marinara sauce, all served over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe captures the essence of LongHorn Steakhouse’s classic dish, allowing you to recreate the flavors of the restaurant in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this Chicken Parmesan is a surefire winner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Restaurant-Quality Flavor at Home: Enjoy the rich, savory taste of LongHorn Steakhouse’s Chicken Parmesan without leaving your house.
2. Crispy and Juicy: The chicken is perfectly breaded and fried, locking in juices while achieving a delightful crunch.
3. Cheesy Goodness: The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan adds a creamy, tangy topping that pairs beautifully with the marinara sauce.
4. Customizable: You can tailor the dish to suit your dietary needs or preferences with easy swaps and variations.
5. Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Marinara sauce
• Dried Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Olive oil
• Unsalted butter
• Pasta (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
3. Prepare a breading station with three shallow dishes:
   • In the first dish, place the flour seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.
   • In the second dish, whisk the eggs until smooth.
   • In the third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and a bit more Italian seasoning.
4. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure each piece is fully covered.

Fry the Chicken

5. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a combination of olive oil and butter.
6. Once the butter has melted and the oil is shimmering, fry the breaded chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
7. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.

Assemble and Bake

8. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each chicken breast in the baking dish.
9. Top each piece with shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Cook the Pasta

11. While the chicken bakes, cook your pasta according to package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
12. Toss the pasta with a small amount of marinara sauce to coat evenly.

Serve

13. Place a serving of pasta on each plate, top with a piece of Chicken Parmesan, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Low-Carb: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or a cauliflower mash base.
• Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses instead of mozzarella.
• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with eggplant slices for a delicious Eggplant Parmesan variation.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the chicken on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, though the breading may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but the flavor and texture might differ. Use fresh chicken breasts for the best results.

2. What type of marinara sauce should I use?

A high-quality store-bought marinara or homemade sauce works best. Look for one with minimal added sugar and rich tomato flavor.

3. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

4. What’s the best way to pound chicken evenly?

Place the chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag and use a meat mallet or rolling pin.

5. Can I air fry the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Air fry the breaded chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

6. How do I prevent the breading from falling off?

Ensure the chicken is dry before dredging and press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the surface.

7. Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are excellent alternatives with similar flavors.

8. How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

9. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze the fully cooked chicken (without pasta) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

10. What side dishes pair well with Chicken Parmesan?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or steamed vegetables complement this dish beautifully.

Conclusion

LongHorn Steakhouse’s Chicken Parmesan is a delightful recipe that brings a touch of restaurant magic to your home kitchen. With its crispy chicken, flavorful marinara sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and savor the irresistible flavors that make this classic a household favorite.

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