Longhorn Steakhouse is renowned for many delicious dishes, but none may be as popular as their Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This dish, with its creamy, crispy, and cheesy layers, offers a mouthwatering experience that home cooks can now recreate in their own kitchens. Whether you’re a fan of rich Parmesan flavors or simply love a well-grilled chicken dish, this recipe brings the restaurant experience straight to your table.
Why Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken Stands Out
Parmesan Crusted Chicken at Longhorn Steakhouse has achieved a near-legendary status for several reasons:
- The combination of crispy panko breadcrumbs and melted Parmesan cheese creates a decadent crust.
- The juicy and tender chicken is elevated by a creamy ranch spread.
- It’s simple to make yet delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home.
For those who enjoy cooking with cheese and crave the satisfaction of a hearty dish, this is a recipe worth mastering. Looking for more tips on how to marinate chicken for optimal flavor? Check out this excellent guide on how to properly marinate chicken.
If you enjoy flavorful chicken dishes, you might also love trying a twist on classics like this Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice, which offers another easy one-pan recipe full of cheesy goodness.
Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
To recreate Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’ll need the following key ingredients:
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to ¾ inch thickness)
- ½ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ cup bottled ranch dressing
- 1 teaspoon vinegar and 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Ranch Spread
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- ¼ cup bottled ranch dressing
Parmesan Crumb Topping
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- ⅓ cup shredded Parmesan
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For those interested in wine pairings to elevate their meal, consider reviewing the best wine pairings for chicken to round out the flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Chicken
Start by preparing the marinade:
- Combine all marinade ingredients and pour over the chicken breasts.
- Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
2. Grilling or Pan-Searing the Chicken
- Grill the chicken for 12-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Alternatively, you can pan-sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, then finish in the oven at 400°F for 10 minutes.
3. Preparing the Ranch Spread & Parmesan Crumb Topping
While the chicken is cooking:
- Mix the Parmesan cheese and ranch dressing for the ranch spread.
- For the crumb topping, mix the panko breadcrumbs, garlic salt, Parmesan, and melted butter.
4. Assembling the Chicken
- After the chicken is fully cooked, spread two tablespoons of ranch spread on each breast.
- Top with a layer of provolone cheese and then the Parmesan crumb mixture.
- Broil in the oven until the cheese melts and the topping turns golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Parmesan Crusted Chicken with complementary sides like:
- Creamy pasta (such as Alfredo)
- Caesar green beans
- Mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables
For a complete meal experience, consider serving warm, buttery rolls on the side, or opt for a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
If you’re looking for another indulgent dish that pairs well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken, try the Cheese Steak Tortellini from this comfort food recipe for a rich and cheesy accompaniment.
Recipe Variations and Customizations
Keto-Friendly Modifications
For those following a keto diet, simply replace the panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds. This creates a similarly crispy topping without the carbs, making it a perfect low-carb option.
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Cheese Variations
While provolone cheese is the standard for this dish, you can easily substitute with mozzarella, cheddar, or even Swiss for a slightly different flavor profile. For more options, see these provolone cheese substitutes.
Nutritional Information
This recipe provides approximately:
- 600 calories per serving
- High in protein due to the chicken and cheese content
- Can be adjusted to be more health-conscious by reducing cheese or using low-fat alternatives.
For a healthier version, you can also decrease the amount of butter in the crumb topping or use a low-sodium ranch dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I marinate the chicken in advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, or even freeze the marinated chicken for later use.
What other cheeses can I use?
You can replace provolone with mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss cheese if you want to experiment with the flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Absolutely. You can pan-sear the chicken and finish cooking it in the oven for similarly delicious results.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, by swapping the panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds, you can make this dish low-carb and keto-friendly.
What side dishes go best with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Creamy pasta, roasted vegetables, and green beans are all excellent side dishes to accompany this chicken.
Final Thoughts
Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a beloved dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. Now that you have the tools to recreate this at home, it’s time to enjoy the creamy, cheesy layers and crispy topping whenever you please. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for gluten-free options, or simply wanting to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe is a must-try.
With its rich flavors and ease of preparation, this dish is bound to become a favorite for your family too. Happy cooking!