Description
Craving a restaurant-quality dish that’s cheesy, crispy, and perfect for a cozy family dinner or a romantic Valentine’s Day meal? Slow Cooker Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is your answer! Adapted from the original oven-baked recipe, this slow cooker version features tender boneless chicken breasts coated in a Parmesan-breadcrumb crust, seared for crispiness, slow-cooked in a light broth, and topped with a melty mozzarella-Parmesan-garlic blend
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (4, about 1.5 lbs):
- Why it’s important: Lean, tender protein that holds up to breading and slow cooking.
- Substitutions: Chicken thighs (juicier, same cooking time), or tofu for vegetarian (cook 3–4 hours on low, pressed and seared).
- All-Purpose Flour (½ cup):
- Why it’s important: Forms the base of the breading for a crispy coating.
- Substitutions: Gluten-free flour or almond flour for dietary needs.
- Large Eggs (2):
- Why it’s important: Helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken.
- Substitutions: Buttermilk or plant-based milk with 1 tbsp flaxseed for vegan.
- Milk (¼ cup):
- Why it’s important: Thins the egg wash for even coating.
- Substitutions: Water, cream, or plant-based milk.
- Bread Crumbs (1 cup, preferably Italian-style):
- Why it’s important: Adds crispy texture and herbaceous flavor to the coating.
- Substitutions: Panko breadcrumbs (plainer flavor), gluten-free breadcrumbs, or crushed cornflakes.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, divided):
- Why it’s important: Adds nutty, savory flavor to the breading and cheesy topping.
- Substitutions: Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or nutritional yeast for vegan.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the breading with oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Substitutions: Dried oregano, pizza seasoning, or a mix of dried herbs.
- Salt (½ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the chicken and breading.
- Substitutions: Sea salt or kosher salt.
- Black Pepper (¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds mild heat and depth to the breading.
- Substitutions: White pepper or a pinch of cayenne for extra spice.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp):
- Why it’s important: Used for searing to create a golden, crispy crust.
- Substitutions: Avocado oil, vegetable oil, or butter.
For the Topping:
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Melts into a gooey, stretchy topping for restaurant-style appeal.
- Substitutions: Provolone, cheddar, or vegan mozzarella.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the cheese topping with aromatic, savory depth.
- Substitutions: ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp garlic paste.
Additional for Slow Cooker:
- Chicken Broth (¼ cup):
- Why it’s important: Keeps the chicken moist during slow cooking without softening the crispy coating.
- Substitutions: Vegetable broth or water.
Optional for Garnish:
- Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped):
- Why it’s important: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and pop of color.
- Substitutions: Chives, basil, or omit.
Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for better melting, and opt for Italian-style breadcrumbs for authentic Longhorn flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Breading Station
- Pat 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Set up three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: ½ cup all-purpose flour.
- Bowl 2: 2 large eggs beaten with ¼ cup milk.
- Bowl 3: Mix 1 cup bread crumbs, ½ cup grated Parmesan (reserve the other ½ cup for topping), 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in the egg mixture, and coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Tip: Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken for a thicker, crispier coating.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the breaded chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown but not fully cooked through (the slow cooker will finish cooking).
- Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Tip: Sear in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent browning and make the coating soggy.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the seared chicken breasts in a single layer in the slow cooker.
- Pour ¼ cup chicken broth around (not over) the chicken to keep it moist without softening the crispy coating.
- Tip: Elevate the chicken slightly on a small rack or crumpled foil balls to maintain the coating’s texture, if desired.
Step 4: Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F/74°C internally) and tender.
- Check doneness at the lower end of the time to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary.
- Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat and prevent moisture buildup.
Step 5: Add Cheese Topping
- In a small bowl, mix 1 cup shredded mozzarella, the remaining ½ cup grated Parmesan, and 2 minced garlic cloves.
- In the last 15–20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Cover and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Tip: For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and broil at 400°F (200°C) for 2–3 minutes after slow cooking (optional).
Step 6: Serve
- Carefully transfer the chicken to plates, ensuring the cheese topping stays intact.
- Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
- Serve hot with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a house salad.
- Tip: Warm plates slightly to keep the dish hot, and serve with a side of dinner rolls to soak up any cheesy juices.
