Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe

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Introduction

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a plate of crispy, golden chicken covered in a luscious, cheesy topping. If you’ve ever been to Longhorn Steakhouse, you may have already experienced the magic of their Parmesan Chicken—juicy chicken breasts topped with a crunchy Parmesan breadcrumb crust, smothered in a creamy Alfredo sauce. It’s one of those dishes that hits the spot, whether you’re enjoying a relaxing dinner at home or looking to impress guests at a weekend gathering.

What makes this recipe so special is the balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is tender and juicy on the inside, with a perfectly crispy, cheesy crust on the outside. The Alfredo sauce adds a rich, velvety texture that makes every bite a dream. Plus, the dish is surprisingly simple to make, with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

I first discovered this dish on a date night with my husband. We’d been craving something hearty and comforting, but I didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. After a few bites of Longhorn’s Parmesan Chicken, I knew I had to recreate it at home. And now, it’s a family favorite. Whether we’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating ourselves on a random Tuesday, this recipe always brings smiles to our faces.

So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking! Trust me—you’ll be enjoying this restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s no shortage of reasons why this Parmesan Chicken is going to become a go-to recipe in your household. Here’s why:

  • Easy to Make: Despite looking like a fancy restaurant dish, this chicken is surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a few steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress.
  • Crispy & Cheesy: The chicken’s crispy crust made from a blend of Parmesan and breadcrumbs provides the perfect crunch, while the Alfredo sauce adds richness and depth of flavor. It’s the kind of dish that’s impossible to resist.
  • Family-Friendly: This Parmesan Chicken is a hit with both adults and kids. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that appeals to everyone—whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a special celebration.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special dinner party, this recipe is versatile. It pairs perfectly with pasta, veggies, or a crisp salad, making it easy to customize depending on your preferences.

You’re going to love how simple and satisfying this recipe is—plus, the combination of crispy, cheesy chicken and rich Alfredo sauce will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Preparation Time and Servings

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 600
  • Protein: 40g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious Parmesan Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best flavor)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for the sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnish)

Each ingredient is key to creating the perfect balance of flavors in this dish. The breadcrumbs and Parmesan create the crispy crust, while the heavy cream and chicken broth come together to make a rich, velvety sauce. Fresh parsley adds a bright pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts

To start, place your chicken breasts on a clean surface. You want to ensure that the chicken is even in thickness for consistent cooking, so if needed, you can use a meat mallet to gently pound the thicker parts to an even thickness (about 1-inch). This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.

2. Set Up Your Dipping Station

In three shallow bowls, set up your breading station:

  • Bowl 1: Place the flour and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Bowl 2: Beat the eggs until smooth.
  • Bowl 3: Combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped parsley. This will be your crispy coating.

3. Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, making sure to coat it evenly. Shake off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure the coating sticks. Repeat with all the chicken breasts.

4. Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

5. Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and add the butter. Once melted, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken to a creamy consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Assemble the Dish

Place each crispy chicken breast back into the skillet, spooning some of the Alfredo sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors and heat through.

7. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the chicken with fresh parsley and serve with extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Pair with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve

This Parmesan Chicken is versatile, so there are plenty of ways to serve it:

  • Over pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of fettuccine or spaghetti with extra Alfredo sauce.
  • With roasted vegetables: A simple side of roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans complements the richness of the dish.
  • On a salad: For a lighter option, slice the chicken and serve it over a crisp Caesar salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette.

You can also pair it with garlic bread to soak up the delicious Alfredo sauce!

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese has a much better flavor than pre-shredded cheese. It will melt more smoothly in the Alfredo sauce, creating that creamy texture we all love.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. This ensures that each piece gets a crispy golden crust and doesn’t steam.
  • Test for Doneness: To ensure the chicken is cooked all the way through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
  • Adjust the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes. If you prefer a lighter sauce, add a splash more chicken broth.
  • Add Garlic: For a bit of extra flavor, sauté some minced garlic in the pan before adding the cream and broth.

Recipe Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize this Parmesan Chicken to suit your tastes:

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free. You can also use a gluten-free flour for breading the chicken.
  • Add Veggies: Incorporate some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the Alfredo sauce for added flavor and color.
  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or the breadcrumb mixture for a little heat.
  • Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result.

Serving Suggestions

This Parmesan Chicken pairs perfectly with:

  • Side Dishes: Roasted garlic mashed potatoes, buttery green beans, or a light side salad with lemon vinaigrette.
  • Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy richness of the Alfredo sauce. Alternatively, a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti balances the flavors beautifully.
  • For Kids: Serve with buttered noodles or mashed potatoes for a family-friendly meal that everyone will love.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Leftover Parmesan Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a little extra cream or broth to keep it moist.
  • Freezing: To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Special Equipment

  • Meat Mallet: For evenly flattening the chicken breasts.
  • Shallow Bowls: To create an easy breading station.
  • Skillet: A large skillet will help you achieve a golden-brown crust on the chicken.
  • Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking.

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce if you’re short on time. However, homemade Alfredo sauce adds a richer, creamier texture and flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the breaded chicken and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. For the Alfredo sauce, make it a day ahead and reheat it gently on the stove.

Can I substitute chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. They’re a bit juicier than chicken breasts and will add extra flavor.

Can I use a different cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even a mild mozzarella for a different twist.

Conclusion

If you’re craving a comforting, indulgent meal that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table, this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe is for you. The crispy, cheesy chicken combined with the creamy Alfredo sauce is a match made in heaven. I can’t wait to hear how your version turns out!

Don’t forget to share your photos with me on Instagram—tag me so I can see your delicious creations and cheer you on as you cook. Enjoy your Parmesan Chicken dinner, and feel free to leave a comment or ask questions below if you need any extra tips!

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