Ready to indulge in a restaurant favorite right from your kitchen? This Homemade Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken will wow your taste buds! With a crispy crust and tender chicken, it’s a hit for any meal. I’ll guide you through simple steps, tips for the best flavor, and easy variations. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will turn dinner into a delicious experience!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredients List
To make this delicious Parmesan crusted chicken, you’ll need a few key items:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup panko bread crumbs
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Olive oil cooking spray
When choosing chicken, look for breasts that are plump and pink. Fresh herbs should be vibrant and fragrant. If you want to substitute ingredients for dietary needs, there are good options.
For chicken, you can use pasture-raised for better flavor and health. If you want a gluten-free version, swap panko with gluten-free bread crumbs. You can also replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
These small changes can help you enjoy this meal no matter your dietary preferences. Just remember, the right ingredients make all the difference! For the complete process, check out the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Prepping the oven and baking sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will help cook the chicken evenly. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light spray of olive oil. This step keeps the chicken from sticking and helps with cleanup.
2. Mixing the coating ingredients
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients together creates a flavorful coating that gives your chicken a great taste. Make sure everything is well blended.
3. Dredging and breading the chicken process
In another bowl, whisk the eggs and Dijon mustard until smooth. Place the flour in a separate shallow dish and season it with salt and pepper. Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the flour. Shake off any extra flour. Next, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, making sure it is fully covered. Let the excess drip off. Finally, coat the chicken with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well. Place the coated chicken on your prepared baking sheet.
Cooking Instructions
1. Baking time and temperature guidelines
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes. You want the chicken to be golden brown and cooked through.
2. How to check for doneness
To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This step is key to making sure your chicken is safe to eat.
3. Tips for achieving a crispy crust
Before baking, lightly spray the tops of the chicken with olive oil cooking spray. This helps the coating become crispy and golden. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This keeps the juices inside and makes each bite tender.
For the full recipe, you can refer back to the Full Recipe section.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Techniques
To create the best texture for your Parmesan crusted chicken, follow these simple steps. First, use panko bread crumbs. They add a nice crunch. Second, lightly spray the chicken with olive oil before baking. This helps the crust get golden and crisp.
For tools, a shallow bowl for the egg mixture is key. You also need a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This keeps your chicken from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Resting the chicken after baking is very important. Let it sit for about five minutes. This helps the juices settle, keeping the meat moist.
Flavor Enhancements
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the chicken. A simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper works well. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
For side dishes, roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes pair nicely. A fresh garden salad also adds a nice touch.
When plating, serve the chicken on a colorful bed of sautéed spinach. Drizzle with balsamic reduction for that restaurant-style flair.
For the full recipe, check out the instructions I provided earlier.
Variations
Healthier Alternatives
You can make this dish lighter by choosing oven-frying instead of deep-frying. Oven-frying uses less oil, making it a healthier option. Simply bake the chicken on a wire rack to allow air circulation, helping it crisp up nicely.
For gluten-free diets, swap out regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed nuts. Almond flour works great too, adding a unique flavor. If you want a vegan version, use tofu or tempeh. Coat them in a mix of chickpea flour and spices to mimic the texture and taste of chicken.
Flavor Variations
To boost flavor, try adding different herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture. Fresh basil or rosemary can give it a fresh twist. You can also mix in a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a savory kick.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with sauces or glazes. A honey mustard drizzle or a zesty lemon sauce can elevate this dish. Play around with your favorite sauces to find a combination that excites your taste buds!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Parmesan crusted chicken fresh, store the leftovers properly. First, let the chicken cool down. Then, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to three months.
When reheating, I suggest using the oven. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep it moist, but remove the foil during the last few minutes. This helps the crust stay crispy.
For the best taste, eat the chicken within the recommended time. The flavor and texture are best when it’s fresh.
Meal Prep Ideas
You can make meal prep easy with this chicken. Start by cooking extra chicken on a Sunday. Store it in the fridge for quick meals all week. You can slice it up for salads or sandwiches.
Another way is to prepare the coating mix ahead of time. Store it in a sealed bag. When you’re ready to cook, just dredge the chicken and bake.
For batch cooking, make several portions at once. This way, you have tasty meals ready for busy days. Just reheat and enjoy!
FAQs
Common Questions About Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Just adjust the baking time. Bone-in chicken needs more time to cook through. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F.
How can I prevent the breading from falling off?
To keep the breading on, follow these steps:
– Pat the chicken dry before dredging.
– Coat the chicken in flour first.
– Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken.
– Spray with olive oil before baking for better adhesion.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to chicken for this recipe?
Yes! You can use eggplant or tofu. Slice them into thick pieces. Follow the same breading steps to get a crunchy layer.
Cooking & Serving Questions
What side dishes pair well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Great sides include:
– Garlic mashed potatoes
– Steamed broccoli
– Caesar salad
– Roasted asparagus
These sides add color and flavor to your meal.
How to ensure the chicken stays juicy?
To keep the chicken juicy, do this:
– Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
– Don’t overcook them; check for doneness at 25 minutes.
– Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes, you can! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
Place the coated chicken in the basket, making sure they don’t touch. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Check the internal temperature to reach 165°F. This method makes the chicken extra crispy!
For the full recipe, check the details above.
This blog post covered everything you need for delicious Parmesan crusted chicken. We explored key ingredients, cooking steps, and smart tips. You learned how to choose fresh ingredients and substitute options for dietary needs. We also discussed storing leftovers and meal prep strategies to save time.
Try these ideas to boost flavor or create variations that fit your taste. With these tips, you can make this dish your own. Enjoy your cooking journey and savor every bite!
