Introduction to Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m excited to share a delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite: Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken! If you’re anything like me, you crave that restaurant-quality meal without the hassle of dining out. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet impressive. With its creamy cheese topping and crispy breadcrumbs, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this culinary adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a game-changer for busy cooks like us! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. The flavors are out of this world, with a creamy, cheesy topping that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a staple in your home!
Ingredients for Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! They’re juicy and cook evenly, making them perfect for this recipe.
- Olive oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasonings stick to the chicken.
- Garlic powder: A must-have for that aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
- Paprika: This spice adds a subtle smokiness and a beautiful color to the chicken.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a taste of Italy right to your table.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Mayonnaise: This creamy base helps create a luscious topping that keeps the chicken moist.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Shredded Provolone cheese: For a melty, gooey texture. You can swap it for mozzarella if you prefer.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: This adds a sharpness that complements the other cheeses beautifully.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These give the topping that delightful crunch we all love.
- Melted butter: Helps the breadcrumbs brown and adds richness to the topping.
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this bright herb adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute cheeses based on your taste or even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your very own Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when it’s time to bake, giving your chicken that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Next, take those boneless skinless chicken breasts and pound them to an even thickness. This helps them cook uniformly, so you won’t end up with dry edges and a raw center. A meat mallet works wonders here!
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Now, rub the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This step is crucial for infusing flavor into the chicken. Don’t be shy—get your hands in there and make sure every inch is coated!
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This step gives the chicken a lovely sear and locks in moisture.
Step 5: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, Provolone, and cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. This cheesy goodness will be the star of your dish, so make sure it’s well blended!
Step 6: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping
In a separate small bowl, stir together panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and a bit of Parmesan. This mixture will create that irresistible crunch on top of your chicken. Make sure the breadcrumbs are well coated for maximum flavor!
Step 7: Assemble the Dish
Now it’s time to layer! Spread a generous amount of the cheese mixture over each chicken breast. Then, sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the cheese layer. This is where the magic happens!
Step 8: Bake the Chicken
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. You want the topping to be golden brown and crispy. If you like an extra crunch, feel free to broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your chicken breasts are pounded evenly for consistent cooking.
- Don’t skip the searing step; it locks in moisture and flavor.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.
- For extra crunch, let the breadcrumbs sit for a few minutes before baking.
- Always check the internal temperature to ensure your chicken is fully cooked.
Equipment Needed
- Meat mallet: For pounding chicken. A rolling pin works too!
- Skillet or grill: To sear the chicken. An oven-safe pan is a great alternative.
- Baking dish: For the final bake. Any oven-safe dish will do.
- Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients. Use any size you have on hand.
- Meat thermometer: To check chicken doneness. A simple knife can work in a pinch!
Variations of Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Cheese Swap: Try using different cheeses like Gouda or Fontina for a unique flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the cheese mixture for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a fiery version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko to keep it celiac-friendly.
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Serving Suggestions for Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a perfect side, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
- Steamed Vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies add a fresh crunch and balance the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting, hearty meal.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Chardonnay, complements the dish beautifully.
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a touch of elegance.
FAQs about Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I make this Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and cheese mixture in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble and pop it in the oven!
What can I serve with Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with pasta for a heartier meal!
Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Gouda, Fontina, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a unique twist to your Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken gluten-free, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. It’s that easy!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken has been a delightful journey, one that fills my kitchen with warmth and mouthwatering aromas. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a way to bring family and friends together around the table. The crispy topping and creamy cheese blend create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. I love how this dish transforms an ordinary weeknight into a special occasion. So, whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to bring joy and satisfaction to your dining experience!
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Copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken made easy!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make copycat recipe for LongHorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken, featuring a flavorful chicken breast topped with a creamy cheese mixture and crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup shredded Provolone cheese (or mozzarella if you prefer)
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness.
- Rub them with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Grill or pan-sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Transfer to a baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan, Provolone, cheddar, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth.
- In a separate small bowl, stir together panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan until well coated.
- Spread a layer of the cheese mixture on top of each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- If needed, broil for 1–2 minutes for extra crunch.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or pasta.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Feel free to substitute cheeses based on your preference.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
