Longhorn Steakhouse is famous for its hearty dishes, and one of its most popular offerings is Parmesan Crusted Chicken. If you’re wondering how much protein is in Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken, this article breaks down the nutritional details, helping you understand its health benefits and why it’s a great choice for protein-rich meals.
Nutritional Breakdown of Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken comes in two portion sizes: 9 oz and 12 oz. Each portion delivers a different amount of protein, calories, and fat, allowing diners to choose the option that best suits their nutritional needs.
- 9 oz Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
- Protein: 68g
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 36g
- 12 oz Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
- Protein: 102g
- Calories: 1120
- Fat: 69g
Clearly, the larger 12 oz portion offers an impressive 102g of protein, making it ideal for anyone looking to boost their daily intake. On the other hand, the 9 oz serving still provides a significant 68g of protein, which works well for a smaller, balanced meal.you can follow this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe for a similar flavor with customizable portion sizes.
Why Protein Is Important
Protein plays a crucial role in maintaining and repairing muscle tissue. It also supports metabolic processes and helps control appetite. Moreover, high-protein meals can help you feel full longer, which assists with managing hunger and weight control.
Here are some of the key benefits of consuming protein:
- Muscle Growth: Protein helps repair and build muscle fibers after exercise.
- Metabolism Support: It boosts metabolism by increasing the thermic effect of food.
- Appetite Control: Protein increases satiety, making you feel fuller for longer.
For those looking for more high-protein meal ideas, consider this Chicken Alfredo Recipe. This dish combines creamy flavors with a high protein content, making it another excellent option for maintaining a protein-rich diet.
Is Parmesan Crusted Chicken a Healthy Option?
While Parmesan Crusted Chicken is rich in protein, it’s also important to keep an eye on its fat and calorie content. The 12 oz portion, though high in protein, comes with a hefty 1120 calories and 69g of fat, which may be more than what some people need in a single meal. However, the smaller 9 oz portion provides a healthier balance with fewer calories and less fat. If you’re watching your calorie intake, opting for the 9 oz version can still give you plenty of protein without going overboard on fat.
Additionally, for those who prefer a lighter version, you can make a homemade alternative. By controlling the amount of cheese and oil, you can reduce the calorie content while still enjoying the rich flavors. Try this healthier Parmesan Chicken recipe to create a version that fits your specific nutritional goals.
Nutritional Benefits Beyond Protein
Besides being a high-protein dish, Parmesan Crusted Chicken also provides other essential nutrients. The chicken offers a good source of B vitamins, including niacin and B6, which support energy metabolism. Furthermore, the Parmesan crust adds calcium, an important mineral for maintaining bone strength. Thus, this dish not only contributes to muscle recovery but also benefits overall health.
For another nutrient-dense option, check out this Sausage Broccoli Stir-Fry. Combining protein with vegetables, this stir-fry makes a balanced meal that complements any high-protein diet.
FAQs About Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- How many calories are in Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
- The 9 oz serving contains 650 calories, while the 12 oz version has 1120 calories.
- Is Parmesan Crusted Chicken keto-friendly?
- Yes, it fits well within a keto diet due to its low carbohydrate and high fat and protein content.
- How much fat is it?
- The 9 oz portion has 36g of fat, while the 12 oz portion contains 69g.
- Can I make a healthier version of Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
- Absolutely! You can lower the calorie and fat content by reducing the amount of cheese and oil in the recipe. For a healthier twist, follow this recipe.
Conclusion
Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken stands out as a delicious and protein-rich meal that offers both flavor and nutrition. Whether you choose the 9 oz or 12 oz portion, you’ll receive a significant amount of protein, making it a perfect choice for those looking to increase their intake. However, for those mindful of calorie and fat consumption, the smaller 9 oz portion or a lighter homemade version may be the better option.
If you want to explore more high-protein recipes, you can also try dishes like Chicken Alfredo or Stir-Fry, which can easily complement your healthy eating plan.
By making thoughtful decisions about portion sizes and recipe variations, you can enjoy the rich flavors of Parmesan Crusted Chicken without compromising your health or nutritional goals.