Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

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### **Instructions for Making Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken**

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**
1. Start by preparing the chicken breasts. If they’re too thick, you can slice them in half horizontally to make them thinner, or gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

#### **Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station**
3. In one shallow bowl, place the flour. In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, coating it evenly. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs into the chicken to ensure a thick, even layer.

#### **Step 3: Cook the Chicken**
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. The chicken should be cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

#### **Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce**
7. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
8. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
9. Once the cream has simmered for about 2-3 minutes, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

#### **Step 5: Assemble and Serve**
10. Place the cooked chicken breasts on serving plates. Spoon the creamy Parmesan sauce generously over the top of each piece of chicken.
11. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

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### **Serving Suggestions**

– **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes make a classic side dish that complements the richness of the Parmesan chicken. You can even add roasted garlic or cheese to the mashed potatoes for an extra indulgence.
– **Steamed Vegetables:** A light side like steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus balances the richness of the chicken and adds some healthy greens to your meal.
– **Rice:** A side of fluffy white or brown rice soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully, making each bite even more satisfying.
– **Salad:** Pair the dish with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette for a crisp and refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.

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### **Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Chicken**

– **Use Fresh Parmesan:** Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives a superior flavor and texture compared to pre-shredded cheese. If possible, grate your Parmesan right before using it.
– **Don’t Skip the Resting Step:** Let the cooked chicken rest on a paper towel-lined plate for a minute before serving. This allows any excess oil to drain off, ensuring a crispier crust.
– **Customize the Sauce:** Feel free to add herbs like basil or thyme to the creamy Parmesan sauce to enhance the flavor. You can also incorporate a dash of lemon juice for a hint of brightness.
– **Make It Ahead:** You can bread the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for a few hours. Just cook the chicken and prepare the sauce when you’re ready to serve.

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### **Storing and Leftovers**

– **Refrigeration:** Leftover Parmesan chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven or on the stovetop to retain its crispy coating.
– **Freezing:** You can also freeze the cooked, breaded chicken breasts before adding the sauce. To do this, place the cooled chicken on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve and add the freshly made sauce.

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### **Final Thoughts**

**Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken** is the epitome of comfort food with its crispy crust and creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying, making it perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight meal. This recipe allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality chicken at home, with simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!