Are you craving a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor? Let me introduce you to my Homemade Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Delight! With crispy panko and cheesy goodness, this recipe will transform your dinner table. I’ll share simple steps to marinate, coat, and bake the chicken to perfection. Get ready to impress your family with a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
To make Homemade Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you need some key ingredients. First, gather two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They should be fresh for the best taste. Next, get one cup of buttermilk. This will help make the chicken tender and juicy. You will also need one cup of panko breadcrumbs. These breadcrumbs create a great crunch on the outside. Lastly, grab half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a rich, cheesy flavor that makes the dish special.
Seasoning Components
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Next, you will need some seasoning components. Start with one teaspoon of garlic powder for a nice, savory kick. Add one teaspoon of onion powder for depth. Then, use half a teaspoon of paprika for a hint of warmth. Don’t forget half a teaspoon of black pepper to spice things up a bit. You’ll also need half a teaspoon of salt to enhance all the flavors. Finally, chop up two tablespoons of fresh parsley. This will add a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
Additional Items
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Lemon wedges for serving
For the final touches, get one tablespoon of olive oil. This helps the chicken brown nicely in the oven. You will also want some lemon wedges for serving. The bright citrus flavor balances the richness of the dish.
If you want full details on how to prepare this dish, check out the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
Soaking the chicken in buttermilk is key. Buttermilk makes the meat tender. It adds great flavor too. I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes. For the best taste, let it soak for 2 to 4 hours in the fridge. The longer, the better!
Preparing the Coating
Mix the panko breadcrumbs and spices in a bowl. Use grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. This mix gives a nice crunch and flavor. For a better texture, make sure everything is well combined. You can also add chopped parsley for color and taste.
Baking the Chicken
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. After marinating, take the chicken out of the buttermilk. Let excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge each piece in the breadcrumb mix. Press firmly so the coating sticks well. Place the coated chicken on the baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil on top to help it brown. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) inside. The crust will turn golden brown and crispy.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Texture
To get that crispy crust, here’s what you need to do:
– Use panko breadcrumbs. They are light and airy, making the crust crispier.
– Press the breadcrumb mix onto the chicken firmly. This helps it stick.
– Drizzle olive oil on top before baking. This adds flavor and helps with browning.
Letting the chicken rest is key. When you remove it from the oven, let it sit for a few minutes. This keeps the juices inside. If you cut it too soon, the juices will run out. You want every bite to be moist and flavorful!
Flavor Enhancement
Want to add more flavor? You can! Here are some ideas:
– Mix in spices like cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning for extra zest.
– Try other cheeses. Mozzarella or cheddar can work well for fun twists.
These small changes can make a big difference in taste. Experiment to find what you like best!
Serving Suggestions
Now, let’s talk about what to serve with your chicken:
– Pair it with steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans. They add color and crunch!
– Creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh salad are also great side dishes.
For sauces, a tangy ranch or zesty lemon aioli can enhance the flavors of your chicken. Dipping the chicken in a sauce makes every bite even more delicious!
For the full recipe, check out the Homemade Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
Variations
Healthier Alternatives
You can make this dish lighter by changing some ingredients. Use low-fat buttermilk instead of regular. This swap cuts calories without losing taste. Instead of panko, try using whole wheat breadcrumbs. They offer a healthier crunch. For gluten-free options, choose gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also use almond flour for a nutty flavor.
Flavor Variants
Changing up the herbs and spices can bring new life to your chicken. For a fresh twist, add fresh thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumb mix. These herbs give a bright flavor. Want some heat? Mix in crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. This adds a spicy kick that elevates the dish.
Cooking Method Alternatives
You can grill or bake this chicken for different tastes. Grilling adds a smoky flavor that many love. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to avoid burning. If you prefer air frying, it’s a great option too. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps the chicken juicy while creating a crunchy crust.
For the full recipe, check out Homemade Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Parmesan crusted chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place a piece of parchment paper between the chicken and the lid to keep the crust crispy. Refrigerate it right after it cools. The chicken will last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
Reheating Recommendations
When you need to reheat, the oven is best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil. Heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. This method keeps the chicken juicy. For extra crispiness, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes.
Freezing Guidance
Yes, you can freeze Parmesan crusted chicken! Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. This helps prevent freezer burn. The chicken will stay good for up to 3 months in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy your Homemade Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken whenever you want!
FAQs
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute. Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will mimic buttermilk’s tangy taste. You can also use plain yogurt thinned with water. Both options work great in this recipe.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to check if your chicken is done is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, not pink. Keep an eye on the crust; it should be golden brown.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prep this dish ahead of time. Marinate the chicken in buttermilk and coat it with breadcrumbs. Then, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just bake it! This saves time and helps the flavors develop. Enjoy the ease of a delicious meal that’s almost ready to go!
This recipe for Parmesan crusted chicken offers tasty ingredients and simple steps. You marinate chicken in buttermilk and coat it with a crunchy mix of panko and spices. Baking ensures it stays juicy.
Keep in mind the tips for crispiness and flavor options. By storing and reheating properly, you can enjoy this dish later. Experiment with variations to keep it fresh. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a chance to explore. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delight!
