Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

 

Longhorn Steakhouse is well-known for serving up hearty, flavorful dishes, but one of their most beloved menu items is the Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This dish has gained immense popularity due to its rich flavor profile that perfectly balances the sharpness of parmesan, the depth of garlic, and the tender, juicy chicken breast at its core. What sets it apart is the crispy parmesan breadcrumb crust that adds texture to each bite, elevating a simple chicken dish into something extraordinary.

People love recreating this dish at home because it’s not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare with common ingredients. The versatility of the recipe means it can be adapted for weeknight dinners or special occasions. In this article, we’ll break down the recipe, provide tips on making it perfect, explore variations, and offer serving suggestions to complete your meal.

History of Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

The combination of garlic and parmesan in cooking has long been celebrated for its ability to enhance dishes with bold flavors. Garlic, known for its pungency and aromatic properties, has been a staple in cuisines across the world for centuries, while parmesan, a hard Italian cheese, adds a sharp, nutty richness that complements a variety of dishes. Together, these ingredients create a savory harmony that has become a favorite in American cuisine.

Longhorn Steakhouse played a key role in popularizing this flavor combination with their Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken. While the dish itself may seem simple, its execution at Longhorn brought it into the spotlight as a fan favorite. The balance of garlic, cheese, and a perfectly cooked chicken breast with a crunchy crust has captured the attention of diners, making it one of the restaurant’s standout dishes.

The appeal of this dish lies in the fact that it combines comfort food elements with gourmet flair. The textures—from the crispy crust to the tender chicken—along with the unmistakable flavors of garlic and parmesan, resonate with American diners who crave both familiarity and a touch of indulgence.

Ingredients Breakdown

Creating the perfect Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home begins with selecting high-quality ingredients that enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

• Chicken Breasts: It’s essential to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They provide a lean, tender canvas for the garlic parmesan crust. For even cooking, it’s recommended to flatten the chicken breasts slightly to ensure consistent results without overcooking.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal in this recipe, as it delivers a more robust and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder. However, if you’re short on time, powdered garlic can be a quick substitute—just adjust the quantity for a balanced taste.
• Parmesan Cheese: The quality of parmesan plays a key role in the final taste. Freshly grated parmesan cheese is preferred for its strong flavor and better melting qualities. Pre-packaged parmesan can be used, but it often lacks the depth and sharpness of fresh cheese.
• Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs are vital for creating the crispy crust. Panko breadcrumbs are a great option because of their lighter, airier texture, which results in a crispier finish. Traditional breadcrumbs can also be used for a more compact crust.
• Other Key Ingredients: Olive oil adds moisture and richness to the crust mixture, while herbs like parsley or thyme contribute to the freshness of the dish. Seasonings like salt and pepper help round out the flavors, making each bite flavorful.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by prepping the chicken breasts. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper, then gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are of uniform thickness, about ¾ to 1 inch thick. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender. Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Create the Garlic Parmesan Crust Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine freshly grated parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, olive oil, and finely chopped parsley. Mix these ingredients together until they form a crumbly mixture. This will serve as the crust that adds both flavor and texture to the chicken. To enhance the flavor, lightly toast the breadcrumb mixture in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes before using.

Step 3: Pan-Sear the Chicken

Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step locks in the juices and creates a flavorful base for the crust. Be careful not to cook the chicken fully at this stage, as it will finish in the oven.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After pan-searing the chicken, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Allow the chicken to bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baking the chicken in the oven ensures it cooks evenly without drying out, while also giving the crust time to become golden and crispy.

Step 5: Adding the Garlic Parmesan Topping

Once the chicken is nearly done, remove it from the oven and carefully spoon the garlic parmesan crust mixture on top of each chicken breast. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes on high at the end of the cooking time, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 6: Optional Garnishes and Additions

Before serving, garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra parmesan. Lemon wedges on the side can add a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the richness of the garlic and parmesan. You can also serve the chicken with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze for added flair.

Variations of Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

One of the best aspects of this dish is its adaptability. Whether you want to change up the flavors or make the recipe suitable for specific dietary needs, there are many ways to put your own spin on Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

• Using Different Cheeses: While parmesan is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses to alter the flavor profile. Asiago or Romano are great alternatives for an even sharper, nuttier taste. If you prefer a milder cheese, try using mozzarella. For a combination, mix parmesan with mozzarella to add a gooey layer underneath the crispy topping.
• Spice Variations: For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. Another option is to use garlic-infused oil to intensify the garlic flavor. You could also incorporate Italian herbs like oregano or basil to add depth to the dish.
• Different Cooking Methods: Although the recipe typically calls for pan-searing and baking, you can try grilling the chicken for a smokier flavor. Grilling creates a slightly charred exterior, adding complexity to the dish. For a faster method, air frying the chicken can result in a crispier crust while reducing oil use.
• Dietary Modifications: If you are gluten-sensitive, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitution for the panko. For those on a keto diet, replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or pork rinds to create a low-carb version. You can also make it dairy-free by using nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a cheesy, umami flavor.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

Creating the perfect Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home involves paying attention to the details that ensure the dish turns out crispy, flavorful, and juicy.

• Getting the Crust Just Right: To avoid a soggy crust, lightly toast the breadcrumb mixture in a pan before adding it to the chicken. This step helps the breadcrumbs stay crispy throughout the baking process. Additionally, make sure to not overcrowd the pan during the pan-searing stage to maintain the right texture.
• Best Cooking Temperature and Time: The ideal temperature for baking chicken is 400°F (200°C), which allows the chicken to cook through while giving the crust time to crisp up without burning. For perfectly cooked chicken, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and use a meat thermometer to check the doneness.
• Resting the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each bite is tender and moist.
• Serving Suggestions: To complement the savory garlic parmesan flavors, serve the chicken with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (like asparagus or carrots), or pasta with a light cream sauce. These sides balance the richness of the chicken, creating a complete meal.

Nutritional Information and Health Considerations

A typical serving of Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken contains approximately:

• Calories: 400-500 (depending on portion size)
• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Fat: 20-25 grams (from cheese, oil, and breadcrumbs)
• Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams (mainly from breadcrumbs)

To make this dish lighter, you can opt for low-fat parmesan or use a smaller amount of cheese. Reducing the amount of oil used for pan-searing or baking can also lower the fat content without compromising too much on flavor. Alternatively, using air frying instead of baking can further reduce the oil requirement while maintaining crispiness. For those looking to cut carbs, using almond flour in place of breadcrumbs is a great option.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

For a balanced meal, consider pairing Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken with the following sides:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, buttery texture of mashed potatoes complements the crispiness of the chicken.
• Roasted Asparagus: A healthy, lighter option that adds a slight crunch and fresh flavor.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple and nutritious, broccoli pairs well with the rich garlic parmesan flavors.

For beverage pairings:

• Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the garlic and parmesan. These white wines offer acidity that cuts through the richness of the dish.
• Beer: A Pilsner or light lager complements the savory flavors without overwhelming the palate.
• Non-alcoholic options: Lemonade or sparkling water with a splash of citrus offers a refreshing contrast to the garlic and cheese.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs for this recipe, but the cooking time will differ since thighs are fattier and take longer to cook. Thighs will result in a juicier texture, but ensure they reach an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C) for optimal tenderness.

Q2: How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken ahead by assembling the breadcrumb mixture and searing the chicken. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, top the chicken with the crust and bake as directed.

Q3: Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Q4: What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?

If you can’t use parmesan, try Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or Grana Padano for a similar sharp flavor. For a dairy-free version, consider using nutritional yeast, which offers a cheesy, umami flavor without the dairy.

Q5: How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

To keep the crust crispy, ensure the breadcrumbs are toasted and that the chicken isn’t overcrowded in the pan. Letting the chicken rest after cooking will also help preserve the texture of the crust.

Q6: What other proteins can I use in place of chicken?

This recipe works well with pork chops, turkey breasts, or even firm fish like cod or halibut. Adjust the cooking times based on the protein you choose to ensure even cooking.

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