Indulge in the rich and savory goodness of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken with this mouthwatering recipe. With its tender chicken breasts coated in a golden Parmesan crust and smothered in a decadent cheese sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details:
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces chicken breasts (2 portions)
- 1 cup Lea & Perrin’s Chicken Marinade
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Cheese Blend
- 1 ounce Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces white Cheddar, shredded
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 2 ounces Fontina cheese, shredded
Cheese Sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cheese blend
Instructions:
Marinating the Chicken:
- Prepare the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner pieces. Place them in a zip-top bag and add Lea & Perrin’s Chicken Marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Cooking the Chicken:
- Heat the skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on one side until lightly browned. Flip and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes on the other side.
Preparing the Cheese Blend:
- Combine cheeses: In a bowl, mix together the shredded Gruyere, white Cheddar, Parmesan, and Fontina cheeses to create a flavorful blend.
Making the Cheese Sauce:
- Heat the cream: In a small skillet, heat the heavy cream over low heat. Add 1/2 cup of the cheese blend and stir until melted and smooth.
Assembling the Dish:
- Coat with breadcrumbs: In a separate bowl, toss the Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until coated.
- Broil the chicken: Place the cooked chicken breasts on an oven-safe dish or pan. Top each piece with cheese sauce, followed by the shredded cheese blend, and finish with the buttered Panko breadcrumbs.
- Broil to perfection: Set your oven to broil and place the assembled chicken under the broiler for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Serving and Storage Tips :
After creating a masterpiece like Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken, it’s essential to serve and store it properly to maintain its exquisite flavor and texture. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish is enjoyed to the fullest:
Serving Suggestions:
- Fresh Presentation: Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is best served fresh out of the oven, when the cheese is bubbling and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Present it on a decorative platter or individual plates for an elegant touch.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil over the chicken just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
- Pairing Perfection: Serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken alongside your favorite sides, such as garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad, to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
- Family Style: Consider serving the chicken family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves directly from the serving dish. It fosters a sense of togetherness and makes for a convivial dining experience.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: If you have leftover Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to allow the chicken to cool completely before refrigerating.
- Reheating: To reheat the chicken, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the breadcrumbs soggy.
- Freezing: While it’s possible to freeze Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen Parmesan Crusted Chicken, transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Once thawed, follow the reheating instructions mentioned above.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken retains its delicious flavor and crispy texture, whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or reheating leftovers for a quick and satisfying meal. So, savor every bite of this mouthwatering dish and relish in its irresistible combination of flavors and textures.
Variations :
Elevate your dining experience with these creative variations of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken, each offering a unique twist on the classic recipe:
- Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the cheese blend for an aromatic burst of flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Spread a thin layer of sun-dried tomato pesto over the chicken breasts before adding the cheese blend for a tangy and savory kick.
- Cajun Spice: Mix Cajun seasoning into the Panko breadcrumbs for a spicy Cajun-inspired twist that adds depth and heat to the dish.
- Mushroom Duxelles: Top the chicken breasts with a layer of sautéed mushroom duxelles before adding the cheese blend for a luxurious and earthy flavor profile.
- Caprese Style: Layer slices of fresh tomato and mozzarella cheese over the chicken breasts before topping with the cheese blend and breadcrumbs for a light and refreshing variation.
- Bacon and Ranch: Crumble cooked bacon over the chicken breasts before adding the cheese blend for a smoky and indulgent flavor combination reminiscent of your favorite ranch dressing.
- Spinach and Artichoke: Spread a layer of creamy spinach and artichoke dip over the chicken breasts before topping with the cheese blend for a decadent and indulgent twist.
- Buffalo Sauce Drizzle: Drizzle buffalo sauce over the chicken breasts before adding the cheese blend for a spicy and tangy kick that’s sure to please buffalo chicken fans.
- Mediterranean Inspired: Top the chicken breasts with sliced olives, roasted red peppers, and feta cheese before adding the cheese blend for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor explosion.
- Honey Mustard Glaze: Brush the chicken breasts with a honey mustard glaze before adding the cheese blend for a sweet and tangy twist that pairs perfectly with the savory cheese topping.
FAQs:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? While chicken breasts are traditionally used for this recipe, you can certainly use chicken thighs if preferred. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of Panko breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
- What can I serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken? This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, pasta, or a fresh green salad.
- Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses or whatever you have on hand to create your own unique flavor combination.
- Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the point of assembling the dish and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to add the cheese blend and breadcrumbs just before baking.
- Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, you can omit the chicken and instead use thick slices of portobello mushrooms or eggplant as a vegetarian alternative.
- Can I use pre-shredded cheese? While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese will melt more evenly and result in a creamier texture for the cheese sauce.
- What’s the best way to slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally? Use a sharp knife and hold the chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Carefully slice through the middle horizontally to create two thinner pieces.
- Can I use store-bought marinade instead of Lea & Perrin’s Chicken Marinade? Yes, you can use your favorite store-bought chicken marinade or a homemade marinade of your choice.
- Can I make this dish ahead and freeze it? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can assemble the dish and freeze it before baking. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
With these variations and FAQs, you’re ready to customize your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with new flavors, get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!
With its combination of juicy chicken, crunchy breadcrumbs, and creamy cheese sauce, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting dinner, this dish will satisfy your cravings and leave you coming back for more. So, fire up your skillet and get ready to savor every bite of this delicious creation from Longhorn Steakhouse.
