The savory and rich Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a fan-favorite at LongHorn Steakhouse, but many diners are curious about its nutritional impact. Understanding the calorie count is a key part of making informed decisions, especially when managing dietary goals. The calorie total for this entree varies depending on the portion size, with two distinct options available on the menu.
Calorie Breakdown for LongHorn's Parmesan Crusted Chicken
The Parmesan Crusted Chicken is available in two different sizes, each with its own calorie and macronutrient profile. The calorie count listed is for the entree itself and does not include any accompanying side dishes, which can significantly increase the total caloric intake of your meal.
The 9 oz Portion
The smaller 9 oz portion of the Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the more moderate option, clocking in at 650 calories. This version features a breaded and grilled chicken breast topped with a creamy Parmesan-and-ranch cheese mixture. The breakdown for this size includes a high amount of protein and fat:
- Total Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 205mg
- Sodium: 1,860mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 68g
The 12 oz Portion
The larger 12 oz portion is a more substantial meal and carries a much higher calorie count of 1,120 calories. This portion also contains a higher amount of fat and sodium, so it's important to consider this when planning your meal. The nutritional details are as follows:
- Total Fat: 69g
- Saturated Fat: 28g
- Cholesterol: 320mg
- Sodium: 3,160mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 102g
How Side Dishes Impact Your Total Meal Calories
The final calorie count of your meal is heavily influenced by your choice of sides. LongHorn offers a wide variety of sides, and the caloric impact can vary dramatically. For example:
- A Caesar Side Salad with Caesar Dressing adds 250 calories.
- A Loaded Baked Potato can add several hundred calories, depending on the toppings.
- A simple side of Seasoned French Fries adds 500 calories.
- A Mixed Greens Salad with a lighter vinaigrette dressing can be a lower-calorie option.
By selecting lower-calorie sides, you can significantly reduce your total intake while still enjoying the Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
Comparison: LongHorn Chicken vs. Other Entrees
It's helpful to see how the Parmesan Crusted Chicken stacks up against other popular LongHorn menu items to put its calorie count in perspective. The following table compares the 9 oz version to a few other entrees.
| Entree | Size | Calories | Protein (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parmesan Crusted Chicken | 9 oz | 650 | 68g | Rich, high in sodium. |
| Lemon Garlic Chicken | 9 oz | 330 | - | A significantly lower-calorie chicken option. |
| Chop Steak | 1 unit | 640 | - | Similar calorie count but different macronutrient breakdown. |
| Renegade Sirloin | 6 oz | 320 | - | Leaner steak option with fewer calories. |
Tips for a Lighter LongHorn Meal
For those watching their calorie intake, you can still enjoy a delicious meal at LongHorn. Here are some strategies:
- Choose a smaller portion. Opt for the 9 oz Parmesan Crusted Chicken instead of the 12 oz to save 470 calories.
- Select lighter sides. Pair your entree with a Mixed Greens Salad or steamed broccoli instead of a loaded potato or fries.
- Request dressings on the side. This allows you to control how much you use, cutting down on extra fat and calories from sauces.
- Consider a different entree. If calories are a major concern, explore other options like the Lemon Garlic Chicken or a smaller cut of steak.
- Share with a friend. Splitting the larger 12 oz portion can make it a more manageable, calorie-wise meal.
Conclusion
Ultimately, understanding the calorie and nutritional information for a meal is a personal choice. For those wondering how many calories are in LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan crusted chicken, the answer depends on the size: 650 for the 9 oz and 1,120 for the 12 oz, not including sides. By being aware of these numbers and making mindful choices about your sides, you can enjoy this tasty entree as part of a balanced diet. For comprehensive nutritional information directly from the source, it is always best to consult the official LongHorn Steakhouse Nutrition Information.
