Longhorn Chicken Recipe

Are you hungry for LongHorn’s signature crispy tenders along with their strong flavors? You’re in the right place. You can now experience the signature LongHorn Chicken taste in your home kitchen because this restaurant recipe creates crunchy outside layers alongside tender inside meat which is full of delectable seasonings throughout your plate.

This recipe creates perfect golden fried chicken tenders which are suitable for family meals during game day or when you want to enjoy fried chicken. Unveiling the method to duplicate the restaurant-quality tenders you love from your steakhouse will start in the next step. Let’s get started!

Ingredients List

A great dish starts with the perfect list of ingredients. For our Longhorn Chicken, each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that amazing flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – For a juicier texture, you may substitute with chicken thighs.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Alternatively, canola or avocado oil work as a substitute for a different flavor note.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Freshly minced garlic can be used if you prefer an extra punch of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – This spice is essential for that smoky Longhorn essence; try chipotle powder for a spicier variant.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• Juice of 1 lime – Fresh lime juice not only adds brightness but also helps tenderize the meat.

Each ingredient is selected to harmonize and elevate the overall taste, ensuring that even the simplest home-cooked meal achieves gourmet-level indulgence.

Timing

Time is of the essence, especially when balancing busy schedules and a passion for delicious, home-cooked meals. Below is the detailed timing for our Longhorn Chicken recipe:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes – This is the time required to gather your ingredients, marinate the chicken with our aromatic spice blend, and let the flavors meld.
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes – Including pan-searing followed by oven-finished cooking, ensuring the chicken remains moist and absorbs the exquisite barbecue glaze.
• Total Time: 60 minutes – An efficient process that is approximately 25% faster than many traditional chicken recipes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners when time is short.

With careful planning and a moderate pace, you’ll find that the entire experience is both stress-free and rewarding.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you gather all the ingredients.
• In a shallow dish, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Dice the chicken breasts lightly to allow more surface area for the spices – this simple tip ensures every piece is evenly seasoned.
• Drizzle the marinade over the chicken and let it sit for at least 10 minutes. For an even bolder flavor, consider letting the marination process continue in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté for Seal and Flavor

• Warm a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
• Place the chicken breasts in the skillet, searing each side for about 2-3 minutes until a golden crust forms.
• This step locks in the juices and maximizes the aroma, making the ultimate flavor profile come to life.

Step 3: Glazing with Barbecue Perfection

• Once the chicken is seared, drizzle the barbecue sauce evenly over each piece.
• Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the chicken to not only brighten the flavor but also tenderize the meat further.
• Use a brush to coat the chicken thoroughly – this ensures every bite is packed with the smoky, tangy sauce.

Step 4: Baking to Perfection

• Transfer the skillet into the preheated oven.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Optionally, baste with additional sauce halfway through for an even richer glaze.
• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving; resting is a key step that helps the juices redistribute evenly.

Step 5: Final Touch and Presentation

• Once rested, slice the Longhorn Chicken into generous strips.
• Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for an added pop of color and freshness.
• Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes – from a crisp salad to a hearty serving of roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Information

Understand the nutritional benefits behind your meal. Below is a concise nutritional breakdown per serving (approximately 1 chicken breast):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 35 grams – Excellent source for muscle repair and energy.
• Fat: 14 grams – Healthy fat content primarily from olive oil.
• Carbohydrates: 10 grams – Derived mostly from the barbecue sauce, with room to reduce sugar for a healthier variant.
• Sodium: 680 mg – Adjust seasoning to suit dietary needs.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Provides vitamin A, vitamin C from the lime juice, and iron essential for maintaining energy levels.

These details not only guide you in meal planning but also help in ensuring that you are nourishing your body with balanced macronutrients.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For those looking to enjoy a healthier version of our Longhorn Chicken, consider these modifications:

• Swap the regular barbecue sauce for a low-sugar or homemade version using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
• Use leaner cuts of chicken such as breast fillets and trim any excess fat before marinating.
• Experiment with additional spices like turmeric and ginger to boost antioxidant properties.
• Serve with a side of mixed greens or steamed broccoli instead of higher-carb sides, reducing overall caloric intake while boosting fiber and vitamins intake.

These alternatives make the dish adaptable for those managing dietary restrictions or simply seeking a nutrient-rich meal.

Serving Suggestions

Your Longhorn Chicken deserves a creative presentation that elevates the dining experience:

• Serve over a bed of wild rice or quinoa for a hearty and wholesome meal.
• Arrange slices on a rustic wooden board with a scattering of microgreens and a drizzle of extra lime juice for a stunning visual appeal.
• Create a taco station by shredding the chicken and offering soft corn tortillas, topped with avocado, red cabbage slaw, and a spicy chipotle crema.
• Pair with a complementary side salad dressed in a citrus vinaigrette to balance the robust flavors.

Personalize your serving plate with these creative ideas and watch as family and guests appreciate both the delicious flavor and the aesthetic presentation of your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a simple recipe like Longhorn Chicken can run into pitfalls if you’re not careful. Here are the common mistakes and tips to steer clear of them:

• Over-marinating: While letting the chicken immerse in the marinade is vital, too long can lead to a mushy texture. Stick to 10-30 minutes for optimal flavor retention.
• Skipping the sear: Rushing the searing process may result in a lackluster crust. Always give each side a proper 2-3 minute sear.
• Incomplete coating: Ensure every piece is generously brushed with the barbecue sauce; undercoating can lead to uneven flavor distribution.
• Overcooking in the oven: Keep an eye on the cooking time—overcooked chicken tends to become dry. Invest in a meat thermometer for accurate results.
• Neglecting resting time: Cutting the chicken immediately after baking may cause the juices to escape, leading to a drier outcome.

By avoiding these common errors, you’ll consistently produce a succulent, perfectly seasoned Longhorn Chicken that’s full of amazing flavor.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To enjoy your delicious Longhorn Chicken later, follow these storing best practices:

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring maximum freshness and safety.
• Freeze portions in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
• If prepping ahead, marinate the chicken and store in a sealed bag in the fridge. When ready, sear and bake freshly to maintain optimum texture and flavor.

These tips not only retain the quality of the dish but also streamline your meal prep for busy days.

FAQs

Are LongHorn chicken tenders frozen?

Yes, like many chain restaurants, LongHorn Steakhouse typically uses frozen chicken tenders to maintain consistency and ensure food safety. However, they are freshly cooked to order for each guest.

Who is cheaper, LongHorn or Texas Roadhouse?

Generally, Texas Roadhouse is considered slightly more affordable than LongHorn Steakhouse, especially on core menu items like steaks and sides. However, prices can vary by location and promotions.

Is bread complimentary at LongHorn?

Yes, LongHorn Steakhouse offers complimentary warm honey-wheat bread with every dine-in meal, making it a popular starter among guests.

Does LongHorn Steakhouse do anything for birthdays?

Yes, LongHorn Steakhouse often offers a free dessert or special treat for guests celebrating a birthday. It’s recommended to join their eClub or notify staff when making a reservation.

Does LongHorn use real chicken?

Absolutely. LongHorn Steakhouse uses real, whole cuts of chicken, such as chicken breasts, for their entrees and tenders. They are seasoned and cooked fresh to order.

Are frozen chicken tenders already fried?

Some frozen chicken tenders are pre-cooked and partially fried before packaging, while others are raw and breaded. Always check the label — but most ready-to-cook tenders sold commercially have been pre-fried for faster preparation.

Conclusion

The taste adventure of Longhorn Chicken delivers bold along with smoky and irresistible flavors directly into your home-cooking venture. Devote simple ingredients and straightforward preparation directions to turn traditional chicken into a restaurant-grade dish which presents juicy results with strong flavors.

The recipe serves both traditional and innovative appeal to prepare meals for home consumption or hosting social gatherings. You can achieve the unforgettable flavor of Longhorn Chicken just by trying this recipe today for enhanced dining excellence.