Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken

There’s something magical about a perfectly cooked, cheesy, and flavorful chicken dish. Today, we’re diving into a delightful and indulgent recipe: Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This recipe not only captures the essence of a gourmet meal but also brings a calming and satisfying culinary experience to your kitchen. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together!

Ingredient Overview

For the Chicken:

12 ounces chicken breasts (2 portions): The star of our dish, tender and juicy.
1 cup Lea & Perrin’s Chicken Marinade: Infuses the chicken with rich, savory flavors.
2 teaspoons vegetable oil: For cooking the chicken to golden perfection.
1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs: Adds a delightful crunch.
1 tablespoon melted butter: Enhances the Panko topping with a buttery richness.

For the Cheese Blend:

1 ounce Gruyere cheese, shredded: Adds a nutty and creamy note.
4 ounces white Cheddar, shredded: Provides sharpness and depth.
1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, shredded: Brings a salty and tangy punch.
2 ounces Fontina cheese, shredded: Smooth and melty, perfect for a creamy texture.

For the Cheese Sauce:

1/2 cup heavy cream: The base of our luscious sauce.
1/2 cup cheese blend (from the cheese blend above): Melts into the cream for a smooth, cheesy finish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Slice the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner pieces.
Marinate: Place the chicken pieces in a zip-top bag with the Lea & Perrin’s Chicken Marinade. Ensure the chicken is well-coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for the best flavor infusion.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture and Sauce:

Mix the Cheeses: In a bowl, toss together Gruyere, white Cheddar, Parmesan, and Fontina cheeses.
Make the Cheese Sauce: Gently heat the heavy cream in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add 1/2 cup of the cheese blend to the cream, stirring until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Cook the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes until fully cooked and golden.

Assemble and Broil:

Preheat the Broiler: Get your broiler ready.
Assemble the Dish: Place the cooked chicken breasts in an oven-safe dish. Spoon the cheese sauce evenly over each piece of chicken.
Add Cheese and Panko: Top with the remaining shredded cheese blend. Mix the Panko bread crumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese-topped chicken.
Broil: Broil for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the Panko topping is golden brown.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time) | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marinating time) | Servings: 2 servings

Enjoy this delicious and cheesy crusted chicken breast, perfect for a satisfying dinner!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use a different marinade?
A1: Yes, you can use any marinade you prefer, but Lea & Perrin’s Chicken Marinade offers a robust flavor that complements the cheese blend beautifully.

Q2: What if I can’t find Gruyere cheese?
A2: You can substitute Gruyere with Swiss cheese for a similar taste and texture.

Q3: Can I use low-fat cream for the cheese sauce?
A3: While you can use low-fat cream, the sauce will be richer and creamier with heavy cream.

Q4: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A4: Substitute Panko bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs and ensure your marinade is gluten-free.

Q5: What can I serve with this chicken dish?
A5: This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.

Q6: Can I make the cheese sauce in advance?
A6: Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Reheat gently before using.

Q7: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A7: The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).

Q8: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A8: It’s best to shred your cheese as pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.

Q9: What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
A9: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to keep the chicken crispy.

Q10: Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
A10: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Q11: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
A11: Substitute the chicken with thick slices of eggplant or large portobello mushrooms.

Q12: Can I use other types of cheese?
A12: Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for different flavors.

Q13: How can I make the dish spicier?
A13: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or the marinade.

Q14: What’s the best way to shred cheese?
A14: Use a box grater for the best texture, or a food processor for quicker shredding.

Q15: Can I use butter instead of vegetable oil?
A15: Yes, but butter has a lower smoke point, so be careful not to burn it.

Q16: How long can the marinated chicken stay in the fridge?
A16: You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for optimal flavor.

Q17: Can I make the chicken on a grill?
A17: Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor. Ensure it’s fully cooked before adding the cheese sauce.

Q18: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A18: Absolutely! The cheesy crust is usually a hit with kids.

Q19: Can I add herbs to the cheese blend?
A19: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the flavor.

Q20: What’s the best way to slice chicken breasts?
A20: Use a sharp knife and slice horizontally for even thickness.

Helpful Tips

Tip 1: Marinate Overnight
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.

Tip 2: Use Fresh Cheese
Freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a superior taste.

Tip 3: Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.

Tip 4: Let the Chicken Rest
Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before adding the cheese sauce to retain its juices.

Tip 5: Watch the Broiler Closely
Broiling can quickly turn to burning, so keep a close eye on your dish.

Tip 6: Use a Meat Thermometer
Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Tip 7: Season to Taste
Feel free to add extra seasoning to the cheese sauce to suit your palate.

Tip 8: Experiment with Crust Toppings
Try adding crushed garlic or herbs to the Panko mixture for extra flavor.

Tip 9: Use a Heavy Skillet
A heavy skillet ensures even heat distribution for perfectly cooked chicken.

Tip 10: Cheese Consistency
For a smoother sauce, grate the cheese finely.

Tip 11: Balance the Meal
Pair with a light side to balance the richness of the dish.

Tip 12: Keep It Warm
If making in advance, keep the chicken warm in a low oven until ready to assemble.

Tip 13: Quality Ingredients
Using high-quality ingredients can elevate the dish significantly.

Tip 14: Oil Alternatives
Olive oil or avocado oil can be used instead of vegetable oil.

Tip 15: Cheese Sauce Thickness
Adjust the cheese sauce thickness by adding more cream if it’s too thick.

Tip 16: Leftover Cheese
Use any leftover cheese blend for other recipes like macaroni and cheese.

Tip 17: Non-Stick Skillet
A non-stick skillet helps prevent the chicken from sticking.

Tip 18: Cheese Sauce Flavor
Add a dash of white wine to the cheese sauce for extra depth.

Tip 19: Marinade Alternatives
Citrus-based marinades can add a fresh, zesty flavor.

Tip 20: Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate Promptly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge within 2 hours.
Use Within 3 Days: Consume refrigerated leftovers within 3 days for the best quality.
Freeze for Longer Storage: If you need to store longer, freeze the chicken. It can last up to 3 months.
Thaw Properly: Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat in Oven: For the best texture, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Avoid Microwave: Reheating in the microwave can make the chicken soggy.
Reheat on Stovetop: Reheat the cheese sauce separately on the stovetop over low heat.
Reheat Panko Topping: If the Panko topping has lost its crunch, broil briefly to restore it.
Avoid Overheating: Overheating can dry out the chicken, so reheat gently.
Check Temperature: Ensure the reheated chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Recipe Secrets

Fresh Marinade: Always use fresh marinade for the best flavor.
Resting Time: Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain moisture.
Even Slices: Slice chicken breasts evenly for uniform cooking.
Marinate Thoroughly: Ensure chicken is fully coated in marinade for maximum flavor.
High-Quality Cheese: Use high-quality cheese for a richer taste.
Homemade Breadcrumbs: Make your own Panko breadcrumbs for a unique touch.
Cheese Sauce Texture: Blend the cheese sauce thoroughly for a smooth consistency.
Flavor Infusion: Add herbs and spices to the cheese blend for extra flavor.
Broil Watch: Keep a close eye while broiling to prevent burning.
Layering Technique: Properly layer cheese and Panko for the best crust.
Heavy Cream Alternative: Full-fat milk can be used in place of heavy cream.
Preheat Skillet: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding chicken to prevent sticking.
Panko Perfection: Toast Panko breadcrumbs lightly before adding for extra crunch.
Cheese Blend Variety: Mix different cheese varieties for a unique flavor profile.
Broiling Distance: Keep the chicken at an optimal distance from the broiler for even browning.
Butter Addition: Mix a little butter into the cheese sauce for extra richness.
Resting Before Serving: Let the assembled dish rest briefly before serving to meld flavors.
Sauce Consistency: Adjust sauce thickness by adding more cream or cheese as needed.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne to the cheese blend for a subtle kick.
Presentation: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a beautiful presentation.

Final Thoughts
Cooking is an art, and this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a delightful canvas for your culinary creativity. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a special dinner or a comforting weeknight meal, this dish is bound to impress. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and happy cooking!