Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

There’s nothing like biting into tender, juicy chicken topped with a golden, cheesy crust to make your dinner feel extra special. This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken brings the restaurant experience straight to your kitchen. It's rich, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to prepare – a dish that feels indulgent without hours of effort.

I first fell in love with this dish during a family dinner at Longhorn Steakhouse. The combination of a perfectly seared chicken breast and that irresistible, creamy Parmesan topping was love at first bite. Now, I’m thrilled to share this copycat recipe that has become a staple in my home.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Get ready to turn your dinner routine into something spectacular. This recipe isn’t just a copycat – it’s a delicious, time-saving option for creating a restaurant-quality meal at home.

First off, this dish is incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of pantry staples and about 30 minutes of your time. With such a simple process, you can whip this up on a busy weeknight or even as a last-minute dinner party star.

The flavor is out of this world. Imagine tender, pan-seared chicken topped with a creamy Parmesan ranch sauce and finished with a crisp, cheesy crust. Each bite is a perfect mix of savory, tangy, and buttery goodness.

It’s also customizable. Whether you prefer a lower-calorie version or want to experiment with different cheese blends, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs and tastes.

Finally, this is a crowd-pleaser. Even picky eaters can’t resist the cheesy topping and juicy chicken, making it perfect for families or guests.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its carefully selected yet simple ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at the key components and what makes them essential.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
The star of the show, these are best when pounded to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking and keeps the chicken moist and tender.

Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key for the topping. It melts beautifully and adds that signature nutty flavor to the crust.

Ranch Dressing
The creamy ranch dressing is mixed into the topping for a tangy, herby twist. Use your favorite brand, or go homemade if you have the time.

Provolone Cheese
Sliced provolone cheese provides the gooey layer beneath the crispy topping. Its mild flavor complements the richness of the dish.

Panko Breadcrumbs
For the perfect crunch, panko breadcrumbs are your best friend. They stay light and crisp, unlike traditional breadcrumbs that can become soggy.

Butter
Melted butter helps toast the breadcrumbs to golden perfection, adding richness and depth to the crust.

Special equipment isn’t required, but having a meat mallet for pounding chicken and a broiler-safe dish for finishing the crust is helpful.

How to Make This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Creating this dish is simpler than you might expect. Follow these steps to achieve restaurant-level perfection right in your kitchen.

1. Prep the Chicken
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to about ½-inch thickness. This step ensures even cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra flavor.

2. Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. Create the Creamy Base
In a small bowl, mix together ranch dressing and grated Parmesan cheese. Spread a thin layer over each chicken breast.

4. Add the Cheese Layers
Top each chicken breast with a slice of provolone cheese. Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and set aside while you prepare the crust.

5. Prepare the Crust
In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in panko breadcrumbs and additional Parmesan cheese until coated and lightly toasted. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken.

6. Broil to Perfection
Place the chicken under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and bubbly. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or a wedge of lemon for a bright finish.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat them to maintain the dish’s deliciousness.

Refrigeration
Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To prevent the crust from getting soggy, line the container with a paper towel.

Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dish. Wrap each chicken breast tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Store for up to 3 months.

Reheating
Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes to crisp the topping and warm the chicken through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best parts of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

Lower-Calorie Version
Swap out the ranch dressing for Greek yogurt mixed with herbs, and use a light sprinkle of breadcrumbs for the crust.

Different Cheeses
Experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or even Gruyère for unique flavor combinations.

Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Spicy Twist
Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the topping for a kick of heat.

Vegetarian Alternative
Replace the chicken with thick slices of roasted cauliflower or eggplant for a veggie-forward version.

Feel free to experiment – this dish is forgiving and open to creativity.

With its crispy, cheesy topping and tender, flavorful chicken, this Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken will make you the hero of your dinner table. Try it tonight and see why it’s a favorite for so many!

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