Name: Irresistible Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken at Home
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground for depth); 2 tablespoons Canola Oil (Or olive oil); 1/2 cup Ranch Dressing (Use low-fat for lighter version); 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated); 4 slices Provolone Cheese (Or mozzarella); 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Or regular breadcrumbs); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Melted); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped, optional)

As I was savoring the last bite of a delightful dish from my favorite steakhouse, a lightbulb moment struck: why not recreate that flavor explosion at home? This Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is my answer! With its sumptuous, cheesy topping and tender, juicy chicken, it has quickly become a weeknight favorite and is perfect for impressing guests. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it captures the cozy essence of comfort food. Plus, you can customize it for a lighter dinner by swapping in lower-calorie ingredients. What’s your favorite way to enjoy a taste of restaurant magic in your own kitchen?

Why is this chicken recipe a must-try?

Irresistible Flavor: The rich blend of Parmesan, provolone, and ranch dressing creates an explosion of taste that will have your family asking for seconds.

Effortless Ease: With just a few simple steps, this recipe transforms basic chicken into a gourmet masterpiece—perfect for even novice cooks.

Customizable Goodness: Want to make it lighter? Use low-fat ranch and whole-wheat breadcrumbs without sacrificing flavor!

Versatile Pairing: This dish goes wonderfully with everything from creamy mashed potatoes to a fresh salad, making every meal feel special.

Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Whether for a weeknight dinner or a fancy gathering, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken impresses every time and is sure to satisfy!

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless is ideal for a leaner, healthier dish.
Salt – Use to enhance the rich flavors and adjust to your taste.
Black Pepper – Freshly ground adds depth to your seasoning.
Canola Oil – Perfect for pan-searing, though olive oil works well too.

For the Creamy Base

Ranch Dressing – This creates a luscious layer; opt for low-fat for a lighter version.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds a rich, nutty flavor; if needed, you can use Asiago as a substitute.

For the Cheesy Topping

Provolone Cheese – Gives that gooey texture; feel free to substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste.
Panko Breadcrumbs – These deliver a satisfying crunch; you can replace with regular breadcrumbs if you prefer.
Unsalted Butter – Helps crisp the topping; margarine is a good dairy-free alternative.

For Garnish

Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle adds a burst of color and freshness; this is optional but recommended for visual appeal.

This Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delightful dish that infuses your home with restaurant-quality flavors, making it an instant favorite among family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by seasoning the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure each piece is evenly coated to enhance flavor. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes, letting the seasoning soak in while you gather your cooking equipment and preheat your skillet.

Step 2: Pan-Sear
Heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear the chicken for approximately 8 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring juicy chicken for your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

Step 3: Create the Base
In a bowl, mix together the ranch dressing with 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Once the chicken is cooked, spread this creamy mixture evenly over each breast, allowing the ranch to impart a rich flavor base that perfectly complements the crispy topping to come.

Step 4: Add Cheese
Place a slice of provolone cheese atop each seasoned chicken breast, covering the creamy ranch layer completely. This will create a deliciously melty cheese topping that enhances the dish’s indulgent flavor as it cooks, setting the stage for a mouthwatering experience when you take a bite.

Step 5: Make the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, the remaining Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the breadcrumbs are well-coated with the butter, creating a crispy topping that will add delightful texture to your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

Step 6: Broil
Preheat your broiler and place the skillet with the chicken under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye on the chicken as the cheese melts and the topping becomes golden brown and crispy. Remove it promptly to prevent burning, ensuring a deliciously decadent finish.

Step 7: Serve
Once your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is perfectly broiled, take it out and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness paired with your favorite sides for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Expert Tips for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Seasoning Matters: Ensure you season the chicken well with salt and pepper, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat for maximum taste.
Optimal Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for juicy results without being overcooked.
Crispy Topping: To achieve a crunchier topping, increase the amounts of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in your topping mixture.
Broiling Watch: Keep a close eye while broiling to prevent burning; the process should only take 2-3 minutes for that perfect golden finish.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Pre-prep the chicken with the ranch and Parmesan mix, then store in the refrigerator. Assemble and broil just before serving for a quick, yet impressive meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken breasts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy ranch and Parmesan mixture can be prepared ahead as well—just keep it separate until you’re ready to cook, which prevents the chicken from becoming soggy. When it’s time to enjoy your delicious dish, simply spread the ranch mixture over the chicken, top with provolone and panko, and broil for about 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. This way, you’ll have a gourmet meal with minimal effort, even on your busiest nights!

How to Store and Freeze Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken moist, place a damp paper towel over the chicken before sealing.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring the cheese stays melty.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the chicken with the ranch and Parmesan mixture, store it in the fridge, and broil just before serving for a fresh, delicious meal!

What to Serve with Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Enhance your dining experience with delightful sides that complement the rich flavors of this savory dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes provide a comforting balance to the crispy chicken, soaking up all that delicious flavor. Just imagine each bite melting in the mouth!
Roasted Asparagus: The vibrant crunch of roasted asparagus adds a fresh, earthy dimension, making each forkful a delightful mix of textures.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette refreshes the palate, cutting through the richness of the chicken beautifully.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery, and garlicky breadsticks make for a wonderful addition, perfect for sopping up leftover ranch dressing. A family favorite!
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli brings both color and nutritious benefits to the plate, while its subtle bite complements the chicken’s bold flavors.
Zesty Lemonade: Sipping on a homemade lemonade offers a refreshing sweetness, balancing the savory notes of the dish while adding a touch of brightness to your meal.

Let these pairings elevate your dinner and make your Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken the star of your table!

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Variations

Feel free to add your own twist to this scrumptious dish and make it your own delight!

Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère or a blend of cheeses for a different creamy flavor profile. Experimenting with cheese brings exciting variations!
Herbed Breadcrumbs: Add dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the panko for an extra flavor boost. This simple adjustment can elevate your chicken dish!
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist. This will add a delightful heat that tantalizes your taste buds.
Garlic Infusion: Sauté minced garlic in the oil before searing the chicken. This will introduce a mouthwatering aroma and flavor that complements the creamy topping beautifully.
Low-Calorie Option: Switch to low-fat ranch dressing and whole-wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier, yet still delicious version. Enjoy your comfort food guilt-free!
Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with hearty portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices. The creamy topping will pair wonderfully with these veggies.
Lemon Zest: Sprinkle in some lemon zest into the ranch mixture for a zesty brightness that lifts the flavors. Citrus notes will add a refreshing touch to the dish!
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the breadcrumb mix for added texture. They’ll give a lovely crunch and an unexpected twist.

For more delectable chicken inspiration, why not check out our Cheesy Garlic Chicken or dive into a scrumptious Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken that brings a new world of flavor to the table?

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Opt for boneless and skinless chicken breasts for a leaner dish, which also cooks more evenly. This cut allows the flavors to penetrate well while keeping the chicken juicy and tender.

How should I store leftover Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To help maintain moisture, I recommend placing a damp paper towel over the chicken before sealing it. This prevents them from drying out!

Can I freeze Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Yes, you can! Wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes so the cheese stays melty.

How can I prevent the topping from burning while broiling?
Very important! To ensure the topping doesn’t burn, keep a close eye on the chicken while it’s under the broiler. The process should only take 2-3 minutes, so check frequently for that perfect golden brown color, and remove it promptly when it looks ready.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions, you could use low-fat ranch dressing and whole-wheat panko breadcrumbs to lighten the dish without sacrificing flavor. For dairy-free options, you can swap out the butter for margarine and the cheese for non-dairy alternatives as well.