Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 12 ounces chicken breasts (2 portions)
- 1 cup Lea & Perrin’s Chicken Marinade
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
For the Panko Bread Crumbs:
- 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
For the Cheese Blend:
- 1 ounce Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces white Cheddar, shredded
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 2 ounces Fontina cheese, shredded
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cheese blend (from the above cheese blend)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thin fillets.
- Place the chicken fillets into a zip-top bag and pour in the Lea & Perrin’s Chicken Marinade.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken fillets.
- Cook for 6 to 7 minutes on one side until lightly browned, then flip and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes on the other side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Panko Bread Crumbs:
- In a small bowl, combine the Panko bread crumbs with the melted butter.
- Toss until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
- Prepare the Cheese Blend:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded Gruyere, white Cheddar, Parmesan, and Fontina cheeses.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a small skillet, heat the heavy cream over low heat.
- Gradually add 1/2 cup of the cheese blend to the cream, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Assemble and Broil:
- Preheat your oven to broil.
- Place the cooked chicken fillets on an oven-safe dish or pan.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cheese sauce over each chicken fillet.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese blend evenly over the chicken fillets.
- Top each fillet with the buttered Panko bread crumbs.
- Place the dish under the broiler and broil for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread crumbs are golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Most Popular Questions and Their Answers Related to Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Q: Can I use a different type of cheese in the cheese blend?
- A: Yes, you can substitute the cheeses with your favorites. However, using Gruyere, white Cheddar, Parmesan, and Fontina will give the closest taste to the original recipe.
- Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it in a skillet?
- A: Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken breasts in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
- Q: How can I make the dish spicier?
- A: You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a spicier kick.
- Q: Can I make the cheese sauce in advance?
- A: Yes, you can make the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before using.
- Q: What sides pair well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
- A: This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side salad.
- Q: Can I use store-bought grated Parmesan cheese?
- A: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Store-bought grated cheese can be used in a pinch but may not melt as smoothly.
- Q: How do I prevent the cheese from burning under the broiler?
- A: Keep a close eye on the chicken while it’s under the broiler. It should only take 3-4 minutes for the cheese to melt and the breadcrumbs to brown.
- Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
- Q: Is it necessary to use Lea & Perrin’s Chicken Marinade?
- A: While Lea & Perrin’s provides a specific flavor, you can use any chicken marinade you prefer.
- Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
- A: The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Q: Can I use regular bread crumbs instead of Panko?
- A: Panko breadcrumbs provide a crispier texture, but you can use regular breadcrumbs if that’s what you have on hand.
- Q: Can I use low-fat cream instead of heavy cream?
- A: Heavy cream is recommended for a rich, creamy sauce, but you can use half-and-half or light cream if desired.
- Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
- A: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, marinate overnight.
- Q: Can I add herbs to the cheese blend?
- A: Yes, adding fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil can enhance the flavor.
- Q: Can I use a different oil for cooking the chicken?
- A: Yes, you can use olive oil, canola oil, or any other vegetable oil.
- Q: Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheese?
- A: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives to prevent clumping, which can affect melting. Freshly shredded cheese is recommended.
- Q: How can I store leftovers?
- A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Q: Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
- A: Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your cheese and other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Q: What can I use instead of heavy cream in the cheese sauce?
- A: You can use evaporated milk or a mixture of milk and butter as a substitute for heavy cream.
- Q: How can I make the dish healthier?
- A: Use reduced-fat cheese, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, and bake the chicken instead of frying to reduce fat content.
Here are secrets to achieve the perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
- Quality Chicken: Start with high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
- Even Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
- Marinate: Marinate the chicken breasts in a flavorful mixture of herbs, spices, and acids like lemon juice or vinegar to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Season Well: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper before coating to enhance their flavor.
- Double Coating: Dip the chicken breasts in flour, then beaten eggs, and finally breadcrumbs for a double coating that helps the crumbs adhere better.
- Fresh Breadcrumbs: Use freshly made breadcrumbs or Panko crumbs for a crispier coating.
- Mix with Parmesan: Mix grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs for added flavor and a golden crust.
- Press Firmly: Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken breasts to ensure it sticks well.
- Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerate the breaded chicken breasts for 20-30 minutes before cooking to help the coating set and adhere better.
- Shake Off Excess: Shake off any excess flour, egg, or breadcrumbs from the chicken breasts before frying or baking.
- Use Olive Oil: Cook the chicken breasts in olive oil for a rich flavor and crispy texture.
- Preheat Pan: Preheat the pan over medium-high heat before adding the chicken breasts to ensure they cook evenly and develop a golden crust.
- Avoid Crowding: Cook the chicken breasts in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook the chicken breasts just until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to prevent them from drying out.
- Let Rest: Allow the cooked chicken breasts to rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving to lock in the juices.
- Garnish Creatively: Garnish the Parmesan Crusted Chicken with fresh herbs, lemon zest, or extra grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve with Sauce: Serve the chicken breasts with a dipping sauce like marinara, garlic aioli, or pesto for extra flavor.
- Pair with Pasta: Serve the Parmesan Crusted Chicken with pasta tossed in marinara sauce for a classic Italian meal.
- Add Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked chicken breasts before serving to add brightness and freshness.
- Experiment with Herbs: Customize the breadcrumb mixture with dried herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to complement the flavors of the chicken.
By following these secrets, you’ll be sure to achieve perfectly crispy, flavorful Parmesan Crusted Chicken every time!
Certainly! Here are some tips to make Parmesan Crusted Chicken even more delightful:
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality chicken breasts and fresh cheeses for the best flavor and texture.
- Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken breasts to marinate for an extended period, preferably overnight, to ensure they absorb maximum flavor.
- Season Well: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper before marinating to enhance their flavor.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil into the cheese blend for added freshness and aroma.
- Customize Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding Parmesan, Gruyere, Fontina, or Asiago for depth of flavor.
- Toast the Breadcrumbs: Lightly toast the Panko breadcrumbs in a skillet with melted butter before topping the chicken for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Layer Flavors: Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard or pesto on the chicken breasts before adding the cheese blend and breadcrumbs for an extra flavor boost.
- Broil Carefully: Keep a close eye on the chicken under the broiler to prevent burning. Rotate the pan if necessary for even browning.
- Serve with Sauce: Pair the Parmesan Crusted Chicken with a flavorful sauce such as marinara, pesto, or lemon garlic butter for added moisture and richness.
- Garnish Creatively: Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, lemon zest, or grated Parmesan cheese for a vibrant presentation and extra flavor.
- Serve with Lemon Wedges: Offer lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken before serving to add a burst of freshness.
- Accompaniments: Serve the Parmesan Crusted Chicken alongside roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of smoked paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning to the cheese blend for a unique flavor profile.
- Brine the Chicken: Brining the chicken breasts in a mixture of salt and water before marinating can help keep them juicy and flavorful.
- Double-Crust: For extra crunch, dip the marinated chicken breasts in beaten egg and then coat them in breadcrumbs before topping with the cheese blend.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Grate the cheese fresh from the block for the best texture and melting properties. Pre-shredded cheese may contain additives that affect the outcome.
- Experiment with Cooking Methods: While broiling is traditional, you can also bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F until golden brown and cooked through.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the cheese sauce before adding it to the chicken and adjust the seasoning levels as needed with salt, pepper, or additional herbs.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all ingredients, including the marinade and cheese blend, are gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy the Parmesan Crusted Chicken hot out of the oven to savor its crispy exterior and gooey cheese interior at its best!