If you’ve ever dined at Longhorn Steakhouse, you know their Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a standout dish that tantalizes the taste buds. With its crispy, golden-brown crust and creamy cheese sauce, it’s a meal that offers comfort and indulgence. This recipe allows you to recreate this beloved dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or simply want to treat yourself to something delicious, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken is sure to impress.
Why We Love This Recipe
What sets this recipe apart is its perfect blend of textures and flavors. The chicken is marinated to ensure it stays juicy and flavorful, while the panko crust adds a delightful crunch. The cheese blend, featuring Gruyere, white cheddar, Parmesan, and Fontina, creates a rich and creamy sauce that complements the chicken beautifully. Not only is it a feast for the senses, but it’s also a dish that can easily be adapted for different occasions, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 12 ounces chicken breasts (2 portions): Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking and a tender result.
- 1 cup Lea & Perrin’s Chicken Marinade: This marinade infuses the chicken with flavor and helps keep it moist.
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil: Used for searing the chicken for a golden finish.
- 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs: These Japanese-style bread crumbs add a light, crispy texture.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Enhances the flavor of the panko and helps achieve a golden crust.
For the Cheese Blend:
- 1 ounce Gruyere cheese, shredded: Offers a nutty flavor and smooth texture.
- 4 ounces white cheddar, shredded: Provides sharpness and depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, shredded: Adds a salty, umami punch.
- 2 ounces Fontina cheese, shredded: Creamy and melty, this cheese brings richness to the blend.
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The base for the sauce, lending creaminess and body.
- 1/2 cup cheese blend (from the cheese blend above): Incorporating the same cheese blend into the sauce ensures cohesion in flavor.
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Marinate the Chicken: Begin by placing the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pouring the Lea & Perrin’s Chicken Marinade over them. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavor and ensuring the chicken stays moist during cooking.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for the chicken to cook properly.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken breasts. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until it develops a golden-brown crust. This step not only adds flavor but also locks in moisture.
Making the Cheese Blend
- Prepare the Cheese Blend: In a bowl, combine the Gruyere, white cheddar, Parmesan, and Fontina cheese. Mix well to ensure the cheeses are evenly distributed.
Adding the Panko Crust
- Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the skillet and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops of the chicken breasts with melted butter, then generously sprinkle the Panko bread crumbs over the chicken, pressing them gently to adhere.
- Top with Cheese: After coating the chicken with Panko, sprinkle the cheese blend generously over the top. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, delicious layer as it bakes.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and the remaining cheese blend. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preference.
Baking the Chicken
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking sheet with the chicken in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving the Dish
- Serve: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the Parmesan Crusted Chicken drizzled with the warm cheese sauce for an indulgent meal that will delight your taste buds.
Nutrition
This recipe serves two, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a date night. Each serving of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken contains approximately:
- Calories: 600-700 kcal (depending on portion sizes and exact ingredients used)
- Protein: 45g
- Fat: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
This dish is high in protein due to the chicken and cheese content, making it a satisfying and filling option.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use other types of cheese?
A1: Absolutely! While this recipe calls for Gruyere, white cheddar, Parmesan, and Fontina, you can experiment with your favorite cheeses. Just ensure they melt well for the best texture.
Q2: How can I make this dish healthier?
A2: To lighten the dish, consider using skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts, reducing the amount of cheese, or using low-fat cream. Additionally, you can serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad to balance the meal.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the cheese sauce in advance. When you’re ready to cook, simply assemble the dish and bake it.
Q4: What can I serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
A4: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with pasta for a heartier meal.
Q5: Can I freeze leftovers?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator and warm in the oven until heated through.
Conclusion
Recreating Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home is not only achievable but also rewarding. With its crispy crust and creamy cheese sauce, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself and your loved ones to a delightful meal. So gather your ingredients, don your apron, and enjoy the cooking process as you whip up this restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen! Bon appétit!