This creamy Parmesan chicken dish is a real crowd-pleaser! Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich sauce with lots of cheesy goodness. Yum!
I love how easy it is to whip up this meal at home. It feels fancy but is super simple to make. Great for impressing family or friends without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier option. Just make sure they are cooked through!
Flour: All-purpose flour is used for coating the chicken. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend works well too.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, but expect a slightly different consistency.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor. If unavailable, you can use Pecorino Romano or even grated mozzarella for a gooey sauce, though the flavors will differ slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can work, but it won’t give you the same punch. About 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder equals one clove!
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken correctly ensures it’s juicy and flavorful. Here are some tips to help:
- Pound the chicken to an even thickness. This ensures it cooks uniformly and prevents drying out.
- Heat your skillet and wait until it’s hot before adding the oil and chicken. This helps achieve a nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to allow for proper browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
With these tips, you can serve perfectly cooked chicken in a delicious creamy sauce! Enjoy your meal! 😊
Creamy Parmesan Chicken Like Longhorn Steakhouse
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy Parmesan chicken dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you can have this delicious meal ready in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook evenly. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge in Flour:
Next, coat each chicken breast in flour, ensuring to shake off any excess. This step helps create a nice golden crust when cooked.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. You want them golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. This will help achieve a smooth sauce. Then, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine Chicken & Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet, and use a spoon to drizzle the creamy sauce over them. Let it simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes to let all the flavors meld together.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is hot and well combined, garnish with chopped parsley. Serve your creamy Parmesan chicken immediately, and enjoy it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with steamed vegetables!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your delicious homemade creamy Parmesan chicken just like at Longhorn Steakhouse!
FAQ for Creamy Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor and more tender texture. Just remember to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Lighter?
Yes! You can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. For a healthier option, consider reducing the amount of cheese or substituting with a lower-fat cheese.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy Parmesan chicken pairs wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it over rice or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal!
