If you’ve ever dined at Longhorn Steakhouse, you probably remember their famous Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken—and for good reason! This Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a perfect mix of juicy grilled chicken, creamy ranch sauce, and a crispy, cheesy parmesan-panko crust. It’s the kind of meal that makes you wonder, “How do they make this so good?”
Well, guess what? You don’t have to wonder anymore! You can recreate this restaurant-style favorite right in your own kitchen with just a few simple ingredients. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or even a meal prep favorite.
And if you’re in the mood for another incredible chicken recipe, check out these Apple Honey Glazed Chicken Tenders for a sweet and savory twist!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe
This isn’t just another chicken dish—it’s a total game-changer for your home cooking. Here’s why:
- That Crunchy, Cheesy Topping – The golden panko-parmesan crust gives this chicken the perfect crispy bite.
- Creamy Ranch Goodness – The ranch sauce adds a rich, tangy flavor that takes it over the top.
- Super Versatile – Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even a fresh salad.
- Easy to Make at Home – No fancy equipment or long prep times—just simple, flavorful ingredients.
- Customizable – Want a low-carb version? Swap the panko for crushed pork rinds. Need a lighter option? Use light ranch dressing.
Seriously, once you make this at home, you might never order it at a restaurant again!
Ingredients for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
To nail this copycat recipe, you’ll need three main components: the marinade, the chicken, and that irresistible parmesan crust.
Ingredient Breakdown
| Category | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marinade | 2 tbsp olive oil | Adds richness & keeps chicken moist |
| ¼ cup ranch dressing | Gives that signature tangy flavor | |
| 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce | Adds depth & umami | |
| 2 tsp lemon juice | Brightens up the flavor | |
| 2 garlic cloves, minced | Packs a punch of savory goodness | |
| Salt & pepper to taste | Essential for seasoning | |
| Chicken | 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts | Pound to even thickness |
| Olive oil (for cooking) | Needed for skillet or grill method | |
| Parmesan Crust | 4 slices provolone cheese | Melts beautifully over the chicken |
| ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese | Adds nutty, savory flavor | |
| ¼ cup ranch dressing | Creates a creamy base | |
| ½ cup panko breadcrumbs | Gives that signature crunch | |
| 2 tbsp melted butter | Ensures a golden, crispy finish | |
| 1 tsp garlic powder | Enhances overall flavor |
Optional Substitutions
- Gluten-free? Swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds.
- Want a different cheese? Try mozzarella or Swiss instead of provolone.
- Lighter version? Use light ranch dressing to cut some calories.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s break it down step by step.
1. Marinate the Chicken
The key to juicy, flavorful chicken? A good marinade!
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pound the chicken to about 1-inch thickness for even cooking.
- Place the chicken in the marinade and coat it well.
- Let it soak for at least 30 minutes (but if you can marinate it overnight, even better!).
- Pro Tip: The longer you marinate, the more flavor your chicken will absorb!
2. Cook the Chicken
You’ve got three great cooking options, so choose what works best for you:
Skillet Method (for crispy edges)
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the marinated chicken 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Oven Method (easy & hands-off)
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Grill Method (for smoky flavor)
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- No matter which method you choose, make sure the internal temperature hits 165°F for safe eating.
3. Prepare the Parmesan Crust
While the chicken is cooking, let’s get that cheesy, crunchy topping ready.
- In a bowl, mix together parmesan cheese and ranch dressing to create a thick paste.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, place a slice of provolone cheese on each breast.
- Spread a generous layer of the parmesan-ranch mixture over the top.
4. Add the Crispy Panko Topping
Now for that golden crunch factor:
5. Broil for a Perfect Finis
This is where the magic happens!
- Set your oven’s broiler to low (about 450°F).
- Place the chicken on the top rack.
- Broil for 2-3 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy.
- Watch closely! You don’t want to burn it.
- Pro Tip: For extra crunch, toast the panko breadcrumbs in a skillet before adding them!
Cooking Variations for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Oven-Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Easy & Hands-Off)
If you love set-it-and-forget-it cooking, baking is the way to go!
- Bake at 425°F after marinating for perfectly juicy chicken.
- Add the parmesan-panko topping in the last 5 minutes to keep it crispy and golden.
- Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious with minimal effort.
- Pro Tip: For an extra golden crust, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes!
Grilled Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Smoky & Flavorful)
Grilling adds that signature charred flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheesy topping.
- Grill the marinated chicken as usual for 6-7 minutes per side.
- Then, transfer it to an oven-safe dish and broil with the parmesan crust for a crispy, melty finish.
- The result? The best of both worlds—grilled smokiness with a restaurant-style crust!
- Pro Tip: Brush a little melted butter on the chicken before grilling for extra juiciness!
Low-Carb Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Keto-Friendly
Want to keep things low-carb and keto-friendly? No problem!
- Swap the panko for crushed pork rinds for that same crispy bite.
- Stick to full-fat ranch & parmesan for a truly indulgent, low-carb meal.
Bonus: This version is naturally gluten-free, making it great for multiple diets!
What to Serve with Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This dish is so versatile, and the right side dishes make it even better!
Perfect Side Dishes
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy and buttery, perfect with the cheesy crust. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a fresh, healthy balance. |
| Creamy Pasta | Alfredo or garlic butter noodles pair beautifully for an indulgent meal. |
| Fresh Bread | Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or authentic Italian bread. |
| Crisp Green Salad | A light and refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy chicken. |
- Drink Pairing? A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea makes a perfect match!
How to Store & Reheat Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to keep it crispy.
- Skillet: Heat over medium with a little oil for a crunchy finish.
- Microwave: Use only if necessary—it can make the crust soggy!
- Pro Tip: If using the oven, place the chicken on a wire rack so it stays crisp underneath!
Pro Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Use freshly grated parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
Pound the chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
Toast the breadcrumbs first for extra crunch.
Marinate overnight for the most flavorful results.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~600 |
| Protein | 45g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g (varies by topping choice) |
| Fat | 40g |
- Lighter Option: Reduce butter in the panko topping or use low-fat ranch and cheese.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free panko or crushed pork rinds instead of regular breadcrumbs.
How Do I Keep the Crust from Burning?
Watch it carefully while broiling and use the middle rack if your broiler runs hot.
What’s a Good Substitute for Provolone Cheese?
Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack—both melt beautifully!
Can I Make This Dairy-Free?
Yes! Use vegan cheese and dairy-free ranch dressing for a lactose-free version.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you loved this Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, check out these other delicious recipes:
Lipton Onion Soup Meatloaf – A comfort food classic with bold, savory flavors.
Authentic Italian Bread (Biga Recipe) – The secret to bakery-style homemade bread.
Healthy Chicken & Cabbage Soup – A light yet flavorful meal perfect for any season!
Final Thoughts: Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Making Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home is easier than you think, and it tastes just as good—if not better-than the restaurant version!
- Juicy, flavorful chicken
- Crispy, cheesy parmesan topping
- Super simple to make
- Customizable for any diet
Whether you’re making this for family dinner, meal prep, or a special occasion, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Try it once, and it’ll be a regular on your menu!
