Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight or a special occasion. This recipe combines the satisfying crunch of parmesan cheese with the juicy tenderness of chicken, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. It's a healthy meal that's surprisingly simple to make, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meals without sacrificing taste. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better.
Step 2: Make the Parmesan Crust:
In a shallow dish, combine the Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of seasonings.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken:
Dredge each chicken breast in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crust adheres completely. Make sure each chicken breast is fully coated for optimal deliciousness.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step adds a nice sear and enhances the flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked perfectly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn!
Tips for the Best Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in Italian dressing for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can sear the chicken in a regular skillet and then transfer it to a baking dish for baking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- To make this recipe even healthier, use panko bread crumbs instead of regular bread crumbs. Panko provides a lighter and crispier crust.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan crust for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, into the breadcrumb mixture.
- Substitute the Parmesan cheese with another hard cheese, such as Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the deliciousness! Remember to share your culinary creations with us – we'd love to see your Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn!