copycat longhorn parmesan crusted chicken with mayo

I’ll never forget the first time I tasted Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. The crispy outside, juicy chicken, and cheesy crust took me to restaurant heaven. Today, I’m sharing my secret to making this homemade chicken that will make your taste buds dance.

This copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is more than a recipe. It’s a culinary adventure that brings the restaurant to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and a few tricks, you can make an ordinary chicken breast into a dish that rivals any restaurant.

Key Takeaways

• Recreate the iconic Longhorn restaurant chicken at home
• Achieve a perfectly crispy Parmesan crust every time
• Restaurant-quality flavor with minimal cooking skills
• Customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences
• Impress family and friends with a professional-level dish

Introduction to Longhorn’s Famous Chicken Dish

Longhorn Steakhouse’s parmesan crusted chicken has won the hearts of many in the U.S. It’s a standout dish with its special preparation and delicious taste.

History of the Iconic Restaurant Recipe

The story of this dish starts with Longhorn Steakhouse’s goal to make meals memorable. It’s not just another parmesan chicken. The restaurant’s unique cooking method makes it a special treat.

Why This Dish Became a Fan Favorite

Several things make this dish loved by many:

• Unique mayo-based crust that delivers exceptional crispiness
• Rich, complex flavor profile
• Perfectly balanced cheese and herb combination
• Tender, juicy chicken that remains moist during cooking

“This isn’t just another chicken dish – it’s a culinary experience that keeps customers coming back!” – Longhorn Steakhouse Chef

What Makes This Copycat Version Special

My version captures the essence of Longhorn’s parmesan crusted chicken. It uses a creamy mayo coating instead of traditional breading. This creates a golden-brown crust that’s amazing.

This dish is not just tasty; it’s also good for you. It lets home cooks make a restaurant-quality meal at home. With simple ingredients and a bit of skill, you can make this beloved dish for yourself.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To make the best parmesan crusted chicken, start with top-notch ingredients. I’ll show you the key parts that turn a simple chicken dish into a gourmet delight.

The mayo parmesan chicken ingredients are key for that perfect crispy, tasty coating. Here are the must-haves:

• Chicken Breasts (1¼ pounds, boneless and skinless)
• Mayonnaise (½ cup, full-fat version)
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, freshly grated)
• Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs (4 teaspoons)
• Garlic Powder
• Italian Dressing
• Provolone Cheese

Pro Tip: The quality of your ingredients is crucial. Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best taste.

“The secret to restaurant-quality chicken is in the ingredients and preparation.” – Culinary Chef

When picking mayo parmesan chicken ingredients, choose fresh and high-quality ones. Each part is vital for the rich, complex flavors that make this dish amazing.

Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed

To make perfect Parmesan crusted chicken, you need the right kitchen tools and cooking equipment. The right gear can make a big difference in getting restaurant-quality results. I’ll show you the essential and optional tools for making a tasty meal.

Essential Cooking Tools for Crusted Chicken

For this dish, you’ll need some key cooking equipment:

• Heavy-bottomed skillet or grill pan
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls in various sizes
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Meat thermometer

Optional Equipment for Enhanced Cooking

These tools are not necessary but can improve your cooking:

• Cast iron skillet for better heat distribution
• Kitchen tongs
• Silicone spatula
• Broiler-safe dish
• Parchment paper

“The right tools can transform an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience.”

Investing in quality kitchen tools for Parmesan chicken makes cooking easier and more fun. The right equipment can greatly affect the taste and texture of your dish.

Preparing the Chicken Marinade

Making the perfect chicken marinade is an art. It turns simple chicken into a dish fit for a restaurant. The secret? Using Italian dressing marinade for flavor and tenderness.

I’ll show you how to marinate chicken for maximum flavor and juiciness. The trick is letting the chicken soak up all the Italian dressing flavors.

• Marination time: 30 minutes to overnight
• Recommended marinade quantity: 1 cup of Italian dressing
• Additional flavor boosters:
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Pro tip: For the most tender result, marinate your chicken for at least 2-4 hours. Overnight marination will give the most intense flavor.

The longer you marinate, the more delicious your chicken becomes!

Always make sure your chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C) before serving. This Italian dressing marinade adds amazing taste and tenderizes the meat. It makes your chicken dish taste like it’s from a restaurant, all from your kitchen.

Creating the Perfect Mayo-Based Parmesan Crust

Making a great mayo parmesan crust is like an art. It turns simple chicken into a dish fit for a restaurant. The trick is to pick the right ingredients and know how they mix to make a crispy, tasty outside.

Selecting the Ideal Mayo

Not all mayonnaise is the same for a perfect crust. I suggest using full-fat, high-quality mayonnaise. It gives a rich, creamy base for your crust. Look for brands with a smooth texture to help stick the cheese and breadcrumbs together well.

• Choose full-fat mayonnaise for maximum flavor
• Avoid low-fat or light versions that can make the crust soggy
• Consider using real, traditional mayonnaise for best results

Mastering the Cheese Blend

The secret to a great mayo parmesan crust is the cheese mix. I found that Parmesan, provolone, and ranch dressing make a fantastic taste.

“The right cheese blend can elevate your chicken from good to absolutely extraordinary!”

For the best cheese mix, combine:

1. ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2. 4 slices of provolone
3. ⅓ cup ranch dressing
4. ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
5. 2 tablespoons melted butter
6. ½ teaspoon garlic powder

The goal is a mix that makes the outside golden and crispy while keeping the chicken moist. Make sure to mix well and coat each chicken piece well with the mayo parmesan crust. This way, you get the best flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Grilling Instructions

Grilling parmesan crusted chicken needs precision and careful technique. I’ll show you the best way to grill chicken on the stovetop. This method gives you a crispy outside and a juicy inside.

Start by making sure your chicken breasts are evenly pounded to 1/2-inch thickness. This makes sure they cook evenly.

• Preheat your skillet to medium-high heat
• Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking
• Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder

Here’s how to grill chicken on the stovetop:

1. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side
2. Achieve a golden-brown crust
3. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F

“The secret to perfect grilled chicken is patience and temperature control.”

When grilling parmesan crusted chicken on the stovetop, look for these signs:

Pro tip: Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking. This helps keep it moist and flavorful.

Making the Signature Ranch Spread

Creating the perfect ranch spread for chicken makes it go from good to great. The right flavored mayo spread turns your Longhorn-inspired parmesan crusted chicken into a top-notch dish.

I’ll share my favorite ways to make a delicious ranch spread. It’s all about balancing flavors and getting a smooth, creamy texture.

Essential Mixing Techniques

Here are the key steps for making your ranch spread:

• Start with high-quality mayonnaise as your base
• Use fresh, finely grated Parmesan cheese
• Mix ingredients thoroughly to eliminate lumps
• Chill the spread for at least 30 minutes before serving

Flavor Enhancement Tips

Here are some tips to enhance your ranch spread:

1. Add fresh herbs like chives or dill
2. Incorporate a splash of buttermilk for tanginess
3. Experiment with garlic powder or smoked paprika
4. Use Greek yogurt for extra creaminess

“A great ranch spread is the secret weapon of memorable chicken dishes.” – Professional Chef

My ultimate ranch spread recipe includes:

This flavored mayo spread will make your chicken dish absolutely irresistible!

Assembling the Final Dish

Assembling parmesan crusted chicken needs precision and careful layering. I’ll show you how to make a dish that will wow your dinner guests.

Begin by placing your grilled chicken breasts on a clean baking sheet. Make sure each piece is evenly spaced. This helps with even coverage during the final steps.

Layering Chicken Dish Components

• Spread a generous layer of ranch sauce evenly across each chicken breast
• Sprinkle the cheese blend carefully over the ranch spread
• Create a crispy top layer with seasoned panko breadcrumbs

The secret to a great layering dish is balancing flavors and textures. Here’s a suggested ratio:

Pro tip: Gently press the breadcrumb mixture to ensure it adheres perfectly to the chicken.

“The magic is in the layers – each bite should reveal a perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and savory flavors.” – Chef’s Secret

Before serving, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes. This will make the breadcrumbs golden and the cheese melt. This step turns your dish into something truly special.

Broiling Tips and Techniques

Mastering broiling parmesan chicken needs precision and attention. This process turns your dish into a golden-brown masterpiece. It has a crispy chicken topping that will wow any home cook.

Here are the key techniques for broiling chicken:

• Position the oven rack 4-6 inches from the broiler element
• Preheat the broiler for at least 5 minutes before cooking
• Use a clean, sturdy baking sheet for best results
• Watch the chicken constantly to prevent burning

Temperature is key for a perfect crispy chicken topping. You want to reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This should take 5-10 minutes under the broiler, depending on your oven’s heat.

“The key to perfect broiling is constant vigilance and precise timing.” – Professional Chef Recommendation

For safe broiling, use oven mitts and keep flammable items away. Never leave the kitchen while cooking. If you don’t have a broiler, a high-heat oven setting works too.

Pro tip: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through broiling. This ensures even browning on your parmesan chicken. It makes your dish look like it’s from a restaurant.

Best Side Dish Pairings

Choosing the right side dishes for parmesan chicken can make your meal better. I’ve found some great sides that go well with the chicken. They make your meal memorable.

When picking sides for parmesan chicken, think about contrasting textures and flavors. Light, fresh sides help cut the richness of the chicken.

• Roasted Vegetable Options:
  • Asparagus spears
  • Roasted Brussels sprouts
  • Honey-glazed carrots
• Starch-Based Sides:
  • Garlic mashed potatoes
  • Herb-infused rice pilaf
  • Crispy roasted potato wedges
• Salad Companions:
  • Classic Caesar salad
  • Arugula with lemon vinaigrette
  • Mediterranean chopped salad

My top picks include a crisp Caesar salad and roasted asparagus. They add nutrition and look great on the plate.

Pro tip: Always aim for a balance of textures and flavors to create a well-rounded meal that complements your parmesan chicken.

“The right side dish can transform a good meal into an extraordinary dining experience.”

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Keeping your Parmesan crusted chicken tasty and crispy is key. You can enjoy it many times with the right storage and reheating. This way, it stays as good as the first time you made it.

Refrigeration and Storage Best Practices

Here’s how to store your chicken right:

• Cool the chicken completely before storing
• Use airtight containers to prevent moisture buildup
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days
• Place wax paper between chicken pieces to prevent sticking

Freezing Techniques

Freezing is great for longer storage:

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap
• Place wrapped chicken in freezer-safe bags
• Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn
• Freeze for up to 3 months

Reheating Methods

Keep the chicken crispy when reheating:

1. Oven Method (Recommended):
   • Preheat oven to 375°F
   • Cover chicken with aluminum foil
   • Heat for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F
2. Microwave Method:
   • Use medium power to prevent soggy crust
   • Heat in 30-second intervals
   • Check temperature between intervals

“The key to maintaining your chicken’s delicious crispy coating is gentle, controlled reheating.”

Follow these tips to keep your Parmesan crusted chicken delicious every time.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Creating delicious parmesan chicken variations lets home cooks add their own twist. I’ll share exciting ingredient substitutions that can transform your recipe while keeping its core flavors.

Trying different cheeses can take your parmesan chicken to new heights. Here are some tasty substitutions:

• Asiago: Provides a sharper, nuttier flavor profile
• Pecorino Romano: Offers a more intense, salty taste
• Gouda: Brings a smooth, creamy texture
• Aged Cheddar: Delivers a rich, tangy dimension

There are also protein options beyond traditional chicken breasts:

• Boneless chicken thighs: More moisture and deeper flavor
• Turkey breast: Leaner alternative
• Pork cutlets: Different protein with similar preparation
• Portobello mushrooms: Vegetarian-friendly option

When trying new ingredients, remember these tips:

1. Maintain similar protein thickness (½ inch recommended)
2. Adjust cooking times based on protein type
3. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety

*Creativity in the kitchen transforms good recipes into great experiences!*

Using these parmesan chicken variations keeps your dish exciting and adaptable. It suits different dietary needs and taste preferences.

Pro Tips for Restaurant-Quality Results

Making restaurant-quality chicken at home needs precision and insider tips. Professional cooking tricks can turn a simple meal into a memorable dish. Here are my top secrets to make your parmesan crusted chicken taste like it’s from a restaurant.

“The difference between good and great cooking is in the details.” – Professional Chef’s Wisdom

Here are some key tips for cooking chicken like a pro:

• Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor intensity
• Invest in high-quality ingredients, especially cheese and breadcrumbs
• Maintain consistent oil temperature when frying
• Let chicken rest after cooking to preserve juiciness

Temperature control is key in professional cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check if chicken is at 165°F. This ensures it’s safe and juicy.

Mastering these techniques takes time. Don’t worry if your first try isn’t perfect. With each attempt, you’ll get better and more confident in making restaurant-quality dishes.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

Knowing the parmesan crusted chicken nutrition is key for those who care about their health. I’ve broken down the details to show how this dish is tasty and good for you.

• Total Calories: 830 kcal per serving
• Protein: 61g – great for muscle health
• Carbohydrates: 15g – a good energy source
• Fat: 57g – mostly from cheese and mayo

If you’re watching what you eat, this chicken is packed with protein and tastes amazing. Each serving has a good mix of nutrients. It fits well into many diets.

“Nutrition isn’t about perfection, it’s about balance and understanding what fuels your body.” – Culinary Nutrition Expert

It’s important to think about what you eat. If you’re watching your sodium, this dish has 1499mg per serving. If you have special dietary needs, you can make changes:

1. Use low-sodium options to cut down on salt
2. Replace mayo with Greek yogurt for less fat
3. Choose lean chicken breast for healthier protein

This dish isn’t a diet food, but knowing its nutritional facts helps you make better choices. It lets you eat in a way that fits your health goals.

Conclusion

Making a restaurant-quality meal at home is simpler than you might think. My homemade Longhorn chicken recipe shows you can turn a regular dinner into a special meal. In just 40 minutes, you can make a dish that’s as good as the restaurant’s.

This recipe is easy and flexible. It’s great for family dinners or when you have friends over. The Parmesan crusted chicken has a perfect mix of flavors and textures. Each serving has 45g of protein and only 12g of carbs, making it tasty and nutritious.

I suggest you try this homemade Longhorn chicken recipe. Play with different flavors and seasonings to make it your own. You can even try air frying or make it gluten-free. The secret to a great meal at home is to be confident in the kitchen and open to new ideas.

Your next amazing meal is just 40 minutes away. So, get the ingredients ready and start cooking!

FAQ

What makes this Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe a copycat version?

This recipe is a close match to Longhorn Steakhouse’s famous dish. It uses a special cooking method and a mayo-based Parmesan crust. This way, you can enjoy restaurant-quality chicken at home.

Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs or boneless cutlets instead of breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the chicken’s thickness and type.

Is it necessary to use mayonnaise in the recipe?

Mayonnaise is key to this recipe. It makes the Parmesan crust rich and creamy. It also adds moisture to the chicken and helps it get a golden-brown crust when broiled.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Marinating for more than 2 hours can make the meat too soft.

Can I make this recipe without a broiler?

If you don’t have a broiler, you can use the oven’s top rack at high heat. Or, preheat a grill to get a similar crispy crust on the chicken.

What are the best side dishes to serve with this chicken?

Great side dishes include roasted veggies, garlic mashed potatoes, Caesar salad, or steamed asparagus. These dishes complement the chicken’s rich flavors well.

How do I store and reheat leftover chicken?

Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. This keeps the crust crispy and prevents drying out.

Are there any dietary variations of this recipe?

You can make gluten-free versions by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. For a low-fat option, use reduced-fat mayonnaise and cheese. Greek yogurt can be a good mayo substitute for a lighter dish.

What type of cheese works best for the Parmesan crust?

A mix of freshly grated Parmesan and Romano cheese is best. Pre-shredded cheese works too, but freshly grated cheese melts and browns better.

How can I ensure the chicken stays juicy while cooking?

Marinate the chicken and use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Remove the chicken from heat when it reaches 165°F. The mayo-based crust also helps keep the chicken moist.