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If you’re craving a dish that’s equal parts crispy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is a must-try in your kitchen. Combining a rich marinade, a heavenly mix of cheeses, and a crunchy golden breadcrumb topping, this recipe captures all the flavors that make restaurant-style comfort food so irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings the magic of Longhorn Steakhouse right to your table with every bite bursting with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a long list of exotic ingredients to make this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe shine. Each item plays an important role, whether it’s the marinade soaking in flavor, the cheese mix adding creamy richness, or the buttery Panko giving a perfect crunch.
- 12 ounces chicken breasts: Choosing fresh chicken breasts ensures tender, juicy meat that’s perfect for slicing and marinating.
- 1 cup Lea & Perrin’s Chicken Marinade: This simple marinade infuses the chicken with a subtle tang and savory depth that sets the base for all the flavors.
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil: Ideal for cooking chicken evenly without overwhelming its natural flavor.
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs: These crumbs bring the essential crunch that transforms the dish’s texture to irresistible heights.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Coat the breadcrumbs with butter to create a golden, crispy crust when broiled.
- 1 ounce Gruyere cheese, shredded: Adds a nutty, slightly sweet tone that complements the other cheeses perfectly.
- 4 ounces white Cheddar, shredded: Sharp and creamy, it intensifies the cheesy goodness.
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, shredded: A classic salty punch that boosts the dish’s savory profile.
- 2 ounces Fontina cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully for a silky finish.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Helps create the luscious, creamy cheese sauce that coats the chicken.
- 1/2 cup cheese blend: A portion from your shredded cheeses used to enrich the cream sauce.
How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by slicing your chicken breasts horizontally to ensure quick, even cooking and a tender bite. Place them in a zip-top bag, add the Lea & Perrin’s Chicken Marinade, and let the chicken soak up all those flavors for at least 30 minutes—or even better, overnight. This simple step makes a world of difference in taste and juiciness.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Next, heat your skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Lay the marinated chicken in the pan, cooking each side until it’s lightly browned but not fully cooked through—about 6-7 minutes on the first side and 4-5 on the second. This step locks in moisture and creates a beautiful golden crust to complement the cheese topping later.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
While your chicken cooks, combine the Gruyere, white Cheddar, Parmesan, and Fontina cheeses to create the signature cheese blend. Warm the heavy cream in a small skillet over low heat, then slowly melt in half a cup of the cheese blend. This rich sauce is what makes the dish truly decadent, coating the chicken in a creamy, cheesy layer before it’s topped and baked.
Step 4: Butter the Breadcrumbs
Mix your Panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter until they’re evenly coated. Butter is the secret ingredient here—it helps the crumbs crisp up nicely in the oven, turning golden brown and adding that perfect contrast of texture.
Step 5: Assemble and Broil
Preheat your oven’s broiler while you arrange the seared chicken breasts on an oven-safe dish. Ladle the warm cheese sauce over each piece, then sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese blend. Finally, scatter the buttered Panko breadcrumbs on top. Pop it under the broiler for 3-4 minutes—just until the cheese bubbles and the topping crisps to perfection.
Step 6: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Now comes the best part: serving this irresistible Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe fresh from the oven. The melted cheese, rich creaminess, and crunchy topping all come together for a mouthwatering bite. Dig in while it’s warm to experience the full magic of this dish.
How to Serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil works wonders here, adding a pop of color and a bit of fresh herbaceous brightness that balances the dish’s richness beautifully. A wedge of lemon on the side is also a nice touch to add a citrusy zing.
Side Dishes
Pair your Parmesan crusted chicken with creamy mashed potatoes, garlic roasted vegetables, or a crisp garden salad for a complete and satisfying meal. The creamy, crunchy chicken loves companions that offer a variety of textures and flavors without overshadowing it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the chicken over a bed of sautéed spinach or linguine tossed lightly in olive oil and garlic. Adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or some toasted pine nuts on top also elevates the dish, turning it into a dinner party showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any remaining Parmesan crusted chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled this way helps preserve the cheesy sauce’s flavor and the chicken’s juicy texture as much as possible.
Freezing
If you want to keep the magic longer, freeze the cooked chicken wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil or in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Remember to thaw fully in the fridge before reheating to maintain the dish’s integrity.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy topping and creamy sauce, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it tends to make the breadcrumbs soggy. A quick broil at the end can help restore crispiness nicely.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe shines with Gruyere, Cheddar, Parmesan, and Fontina, you can experiment with other melty cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or even a bit of smoked Gouda for a unique twist.
What if I don’t have Lea & Perrin’s Chicken Marinade?
If you can’t find Lea & Perrin’s, a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar works well as a substitute marinade to give that tangy, savory punch.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap out the Panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The resulting crust will still be deliciously crispy and flavorful.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later?
You can marinate and sear the chicken ahead, then keep it refrigerated before assembling the cheese topping and broiling it fresh. This way, you maintain the crispiness and richness of the dish.
What wine pairs best with this cheese-filled chicken?
A buttery Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir pairs beautifully, complementing the creamy cheese sauce and cutting through the richness with balanced acidity.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something undeniably comforting about the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe, and once you make it, you’ll see why it’s a favorite for good reason. It’s indulgent yet approachable, packed with bold flavors and delightful textures that make every bite special. So go ahead—give this recipe a try, invite some loved ones over, and enjoy the warmth and joy of a homemade dish that tastes just like it’s straight from your favorite steakhouse.
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