Introduction
Have you ever walked into a warm kitchen, where the enticing aroma of cooking fills the air and invites you to take a seat at the table? The kind of place where laughter intertwines with sizzling sounds, and each dish tells a story? Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a comforting and beloved recipe that embodies warmth and joy — Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken. This dish has a way of turning ordinary dinner nights into extraordinary gatherings filled with the essence of home-cooked love.
Picture this: succulent, crispy chicken breasts crowned with a rich Parmesan crust, simmered in a creamy garlic sauce that weaves its way into every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick family meal or an indulgent treat for a special occasion, this parmesan chicken is sure to impress and satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish makes for a perfect weeknight dinner when energy runs low.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The flavors are rich and inviting, making it a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
- Cozy and Comforting: There’s something about a creamy, cheesy dish that wraps you in warmth; it feels like a tender hug after a long day.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion — whether it’s a casual weeknight meal, a festive dish for gatherings, or just a well-deserved indulgent treat.
Ingredients with Notes
To create this delightful Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Ensure they are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for basic seasoning.
- 1 cup flour: This will provide a crispy coating.
- 2 large eggs: For binding all the ingredients beautifully.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star of this dish with its nutty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Fresh garlic can also be used for a deeper flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning: A blend that adds an aromatic twist.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For that luscious, creamy sauce. (Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.)
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A fresh herb touch that brightens up the dish.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
This recipe is not only quick but also allows you to savor every step, resulting in culinary joy at its finest.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry, then pound them to an even thickness for even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Set Up Your Breading Station: In a shallow bowl, place the flour. In another bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the egg, and finally coat it with the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sear the chicken but not burning.
- Cook the Chicken: Once the pan is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll notice the beautiful crust forming; it’s a sight to behold!
- Create the Sauce: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, reduce the heat and add the heavy cream. Scrape any flavorful brown bits from the pan to enhance the sauce.
- Simmer and Serve: Allow the cream to thicken slightly, then return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy goodness. Simmer for an additional couple of minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips and Variations
- Healthier Swap: Use whole wheat flour for a more nutritious coating.
- Flavour Upgrade: Try adding a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for a bright, zesty twist.
- Seasonal Additions: Incorporate sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers for added nutrients and color.
Serving Ideas
Imagine serving this delightful Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken with fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a crisp Caesar salad. A glass of chilled white wine pairs wonderfully, enhancing the dish’s creamy richness. It’s perfect for an intimate family dinner or a festive gathering where everyone can relish in the flavors of comfort and love.
Storage and Reheating
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to revive that creamy texture. It can also be frozen, but I recommend separating the sauce and chicken for optimal texture upon reheating.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Pound the Chicken: An even thickness ensures the chicken cooks uniformly, preventing dryness.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Let the cream simmer gently to thicken, enhancing the flavors without boiling.
- Rest the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest before slicing keeps it juicy and flavorful.
- Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or basil at the end for that pop of flavor.
FAQs
- Can I use skin-on chicken? Yes, simply adjust the cooking time as skin-on chicken may take longer to cook.
- Is it possible to make this a gluten-free dish? Absolutely! Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- What can I serve as sides with this dish? Roast vegetables, quinoa pilaf, or a vibrant side salad all complement this chicken beautifully.
Conclusion
As you gather around the table with your loved ones, I hope this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken fills your home with warmth and joy, just as it has mine. The laughter, the conversations, and the delightful meals shared are what create lasting memories. So roll up your sleeves, dive into this comforting homemade recipe, and let the love and flavors bloom. Share the happiness it brings and watch as it becomes as cherished in your home as it is in mine. Enjoy!
Contents
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Ensure they are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
- 1 teaspoon salt Essential for basic seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon pepper Essential for basic seasoning.
Breading Ingredients
- 1 cup flour This will provide a crispy coating.
- 2 large eggs For binding all the ingredients beautifully.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese The star of this dish with its nutty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh garlic can also be used for a deeper flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning A blend that adds an aromatic twist.
For the Sauce and Garnish
- 1 cup heavy cream For that luscious, creamy sauce (Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option).
- to taste unit fresh parsley A fresh herb touch that brightens up the dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the chicken breasts dry, then pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Set up your breading station: In a shallow bowl, place the flour. In another bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Breading and Cooking
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the egg, then coat it with the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Sauce Preparation
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat and add the heavy cream, scraping any flavorful brown bits from the pan.
- Allow the cream to thicken slightly, then return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy goodness. Simmer for an additional couple of minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.