Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a fan-favorite dish that combines tender, juicy grilled chicken with a creamy, cheesy crust that’s irresistibly good. This copycat recipe brings the restaurant experience to your home, allowing you to recreate the magic of this popular entrée. With a rich Parmesan-Ranch sauce, a crunchy breadcrumb topping, and perfectly seasoned chicken, this dish is sure to impress your family and guests alike. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is destined to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic blend of flavors and textures: juicy, well-seasoned chicken breast topped with a creamy, tangy Parmesan Ranch sauce, finished with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping. It’s indulgent yet simple to prepare, making it perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks. Not only does it taste like a restaurant-quality meal, but it’s also customizable—serve it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal. Plus, you’ll love that you can enjoy this Longhorn Steakhouse favorite without ever leaving your kitchen.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 460
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 48g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Parmesan Ranch Sauce:

• ½ cup (120ml) ranch dressing
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup (60g) mayonnaise
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

For the Parmesan Crust Topping:

• ½ cup (50g) shredded Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup (50g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup (25g) Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Flatten the chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This ensures even cooking.
2. Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the skillet and place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Parmesan Ranch Sauce

1. Combine the ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste if needed.
2. Spread the sauce: Generously spread the Parmesan Ranch sauce over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring an even layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan Crust Topping

1. Mix the topping: In a small bowl, combine shredded Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well combined and crumbly.
2. Add the topping: Spoon the Parmesan crust mixture on top of the Parmesan Ranch sauce, gently pressing it down so it adheres to the chicken.

Step 4: Bake and Broil

1. Bake the chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baking sheet with the chicken in the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Broil for a golden crust: Turn on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking to achieve a crispy, golden-brown crust. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish and enjoy: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges, if desired. Pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Ingredient Background

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and versatile, making them the ideal base for this dish. Pounding them ensures even cooking and tenderness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Both grated and shredded Parmesan are used to add depth and a nutty, salty flavor to the dish.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Light and airy, Panko breadcrumbs create a crispy topping without being too heavy.
• Ranch Dressing: A creamy, tangy base for the Parmesan sauce that balances the richness of the cheese.

Technique Tips

• Don’t Skip Pounding the Chicken: Even thickness ensures the chicken cooks evenly and remains juicy.
• Preheat the Broiler: For the crispiest crust, preheat the broiler and watch closely while browning the topping.
• Layer the Toppings Generously: Don’t skimp on the sauce or crust—these layers make the dish extra special.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Over Pasta: Serve the Parmesan Crusted Chicken over a bed of fettuccine Alfredo or spaghetti for a classic Italian-inspired meal.
• On a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve it over a crisp salad with extra Parmesan Ranch dressing as the dressing.
• Open-Faced Sandwich: Place the chicken on a slice of toasted garlic bread for a hearty, open-faced sandwich.

Additional Tips for Success

• Prep Ahead: Make the Parmesan Ranch sauce and topping in advance to save time when cooking.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, grate your Parmesan cheese fresh.
• Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature and prevent it from drying out.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the Parmesan crust topping for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Crusted Chicken: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil into the topping for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace Panko breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly option.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze fully cooked and cooled Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Greek Yogurt: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt in the Parmesan Ranch sauce for a lighter version.
• Grill the Chicken: Instead of pan-searing, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor and fewer calories.
• Reduce the Cheese: Use less cheese in the topping and replace some with extra breadcrumbs for a lighter dish.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinner: Pair with garlic mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli for a well-rounded meal.
• Holiday Gathering: Serve alongside roasted vegetables and a creamy risotto for a festive spread.
• Potluck Favorite: Slice the chicken into smaller pieces and serve as bite-sized appetizers with extra Parmesan Ranch sauce for dipping.

Special Equipment

• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Meat thermometer

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They are naturally juicier and will still work perfectly with the toppings.

2. How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?
Ensure the chicken is cooked and not overly moist before adding the toppings. Broiling also helps crisp up the crust.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free cheese and mayonnaise substitutes to make a dairy-free version of the dish.

4. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat in the oven to preserve the crispiness of the crust. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the topping soggy.

5. Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and prepare the toppings ahead of time. Assemble just before baking to maintain freshness.

6. Can I use store-bought ranch dressing?
Yes, store-bought ranch works well, but homemade ranch dressing adds a fresher, more customizable flavor.

7. How can I make the dish gluten-free?
Substitute the Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

8. What sides pair best with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, pasta, or a simple side salad all complement this dish beautifully.

Conclusion

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to recreate at home. With juicy chicken, creamy Parmesan Ranch sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that never fails to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on flavor and satisfaction. Give it a try, and watch it become a go-to favorite in your home!

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