Name: Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces skinless/boneless chicken breasts; Salt/Pepper to taste; 3 Tablespoons vegetable oil; 1/3 cup olive oil; 1/3 cup ranch dressing; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Distilled white vinegar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (chopped into bits); 1/2 cup Provolone cheese (chopped into bits); 6 Tablespoons Buttermilk Ranch salad dressing (regular Ranch is fine as well); 4 Tablespoons melted butter; 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 teaspoons garlic powder

Introduction to Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Are you craving that delicious Parmesan Crusted Chicken you love from Longhorn but don’t want to head out? Good news! Making a homemade version is both fun and satisfying. This copycat Longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken recipe not only gives you a dish that tastes just like your favorite restaurant meal but also allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring it's just how you like it.

Why Homemade Recipes Beat Fast Food

Choosing to whip up a meal at home has its perks. Firstly, you know exactly what goes into your food, which means you can avoid unnecessary additives and preservatives often found in fast food. Plus, you can customize flavors to suit your personal taste. Studies suggest that cooking at home can actually lead to healthier eating habits, as meals tend to be more balanced and nutritious.

Another bonus? Homemade meals can be a great way to bond with family or friends. Imagine gathering around the dinner table, sharing stories while enjoying your very own Parmesan crusted chicken. By making it yourself, you’re not just feeding your stomach; you’re nourishing relationships too. Interested in learning how? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Creating copycat Longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken at home doesn't require a culinary degree; just follow this simple ingredient list!

Essential Chicken Ingredients

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts: These are the star of the dish and the base for your mouthwatering crust.
Salt and pepper: Use these to season the chicken to your taste.
3 tablespoons vegetable oil: This is needed for searing the chicken to perfection.

Marinade Ingredients

For a flavorful kick, you’ll need:

⅓ cup olive oil
⅓ cup ranch dressing: Adds creaminess and zest.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon minced garlic
½ teaspoon pepper

Feel free to explore quick options, such as using Italian salad dressing as a shortcut.

Parmesan Crust Ingredients

To create that delectable topping, gather:

½ cup Parmesan cheese, chopped into bits
½ cup Provolone cheese, chopped into bits
6 tablespoons buttermilk ranch salad dressing (regular works too)
4 tablespoons melted butter
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 teaspoons garlic powder

These ingredients combine to give a crunchy and cheesy finish that will have you coming back for seconds!

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out sites like AllRecipes or Food Network. Happy cooking!

Step-by-step preparation of Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Creating your own copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken can transform your kitchen into a cozy bistro! Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide that ensures deliciousness in every bite.

Marinate the Chicken

Begin by preparing your marinade. In a bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup olive oil, ⅓ cup ranch dressing, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon of pepper until well-combined.

Flatten the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a gallon freezer bag, seal it, and gently pound them to about ½ inch thick. This helps them cook evenly.
Season and Marinate: Lightly sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper for added flavor. Transfer the chicken into a new freezer bag, alongside your marinade. Seal the bag while removing as much air as possible, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or longer if time permits. Overnight is best for maximum flavor!

Sear the Chicken

Once marinated, it’s time to sear the chicken to lock in those flavors.

Heat Your Skillet: Pour 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil into a skillet over medium-high heat. If you have a cast iron skillet, even better!
Cook it Right: Carefully place the marinated chicken in the skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes. Avoid moving the chicken around too much; a good sear needs time to develop that nice golden color. Once it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, transfer the chicken to a clean skillet or baking sheet, tenting it with foil to keep warm.

Prepare the Parmesan Crust

Now, let’s get to the star of the show—the Parmesan crust!

In a bowl, combine ½ cup Parmesan cheese, ½ cup Provolone cheese (you can read more about the best cheese choices at Cheese.com), and 6 tablespoons of Buttermilk Ranch salad dressing. Stir well and microwave this mixture in 15-second increments, stirring in between until melted.
Breadcrumb Mix: In another bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs until well coated. Spread the cheesy mixture over the top of each chicken breast, followed by the breadcrumb mixture for that perfect crunch.

Broil the Chicken

Finally, we take this copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken to the next level with a quick broil.

Preheat Your Oven: Set it to a low broil (around 450°F).
Broil for Perfection: Place your cheese-crusted chicken under the broiler for 3-4 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning! Look for a nice bubbly and slightly browned top—this is where the magic happens! Serve hot alongside some mashed potatoes or your favorite roasted vegetables.

And there you have it! Your very own copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken ready to impress family and friends. Bon appétit!

Variations on Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Keto Version with Pork Rinds

For those following a keto lifestyle, substituting pork rinds for breadcrumbs offers a deliciously crunchy alternative while omitting unnecessary carbs. Simply crush the pork rinds and toss them with garlic powder before applying it to the chicken. The rich texture and flavor will still give you that crave-worthy copycat Longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken experience. Have you tried this yet? Many fans rave about how it crisps up beautifully in the oven!

Flavor Twists with Different Cheeses

Looking to spice things up? Experiment with different cheese combinations! Try using Swiss, gouda, or even a blend of mozzarella and feta for an exciting take on the copycat Longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken. Each cheese brings its unique character – for example, gouda adds a smoky richness. Don't be afraid to mix and match, as the possibilities are endless! For even more inspiration, check out this cheese pairing guide for fun ideas.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Recommended Cooking Methods

For a deliciously crispy finish to your copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, consider searing in a cast iron skillet for that perfect golden crust. Alternatively, grilling can add a delightful smoky flavor—just ensure you let the chicken cook undisturbed to achieve those beautiful grill marks. If you prefer baking, using an oven-safe dish is ideal for maintaining moisture. This multitask-friendly recipe suits various cooking preferences!

Essential Kitchen Tools

To simplify your cooking process, keep the following tools handy:

Cast Iron Skillet – for even heat distribution and a great sear.
Meat Tenderizer – to flatten your chicken evenly for optimal cooking.
Baking Sheet – necessary for broiling the Parmesan crust perfectly.
Mixing Bowls – handy for preparing the marinade and crust.

With these tips, you're well on your way to impressing friends and family with this delicious copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken! For more ideas, check out KitchenAid for quality kitchen tools and culinary inspiration.

Serving suggestions for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Ideal Side Dishes

To complement your copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, consider pairing it with sides that balance flavors and textures. Here are some delicious options:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they soak up the chicken's juices beautifully.
Garlic Butter Pasta: A light yet indulgent side, this pairs perfectly with the savory crust.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies bring color and nutrition to your plate, adding a fresh element to the meal.

Presentation Tips

Make your meal visually enticing! Here are some simple presentation tips to elevate your dish:

Use fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or basil over the chicken for a pop of color.
Arrange the sides neatly: Place the mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables artfully around the chicken, creating an inviting plate.
Add a drizzle: A little olive oil or balsamic reduction can add both flavor and a gourmet touch to your final presentation.

With these serving suggestions, your copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken will not just taste amazing but will look fantastic too—perfect for impressing friends or family!

Time Breakdown for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

When planning to whip up this delicious copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, here's how your time will break down:

Preparation Time

Spend about 35 minutes gathering ingredients, marinating the chicken, and prepping the Parmesan crust.

Cooking Time

The cooking process will take roughly 20 minutes, including searing the chicken and broiling the cheese topping to crispy perfection.

Total Time

Overall, you’re looking at a total of 55 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests!

Enjoy crafting this delicious dish that captures the essence of Longhorn’s famous chicken right at home! For further inspiration, don’t forget to explore more about chicken dishes at sites like Food Network or Bon Appétit.

Nutritional Facts for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

When you're indulging in delicious Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, it's good to know what you're getting! Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional facts:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 660 calories. It’s a satisfying dish that can be part of a balanced meal when paired with fresh vegetables or salads.

Protein

With about 46 grams of protein per serving, this chicken dish is perfect for refueling and muscle repair after a workout.

Fats

The dish has around 38 grams of fat, which includes healthy fats from the olive oil and cheese, making it both flavorful and filling!

Enjoy savoring this delightful meal knowing it fits into your nutritional goals. You can also explore additional insights on nutrition from reputable sources like Healthline or the USDA.

FAQs about Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While traditional pasta pairs beautifully with this dish, feel free to experiment with alternatives. Options like whole wheat, gluten-free, or even spaghetti squash can elevate your copycat Longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken experience. Each brings its unique flavor and texture, so choose one that suits your dietary preferences.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To lighten up your copycat Longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken, consider these tips:

Use skinless chicken breasts to reduce fat.
Opt for whole wheat or veggie-based pasta to increase fiber.
Replace ranch dressing with Greek yogurt for a protein boost and fewer calories.
Cut back on cheese: Go easy on the Parmesan and Provolone or opt for a low-fat version.

What can I substitute for ranch dressing?

If ranch isn't your thing, you have plenty of options! Try using homemade vinaigrette or a simple mix of plain yogurt and herbs for a fresh twist. Alternatively, a creamy Caesar dressing can add a different flavor dimension while still blending well with the crust. Don't hesitate to experiment; find what makes your copycat Longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken truly yours!

Conclusion on Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Creating this copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home is easier than you might think! With a flavorful marinade and a crunchy Parmesan crust, it's sure to impress your family and friends. Pair it with garlic butter pasta or roasted veggies for a meal that truly shines. Enjoy!