If you’re a fan of Longhorn Steakhouse, you’re already familiar with their popular Parmesan Crusted Chicken, a perfect combination of crispy, cheesy crust and tender, juicy chicken. Fortunately, you don’t have to head to the restaurant to enjoy this crowd-favorite dish. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can recreate this restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.
What Makes Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Special?
The secret to Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is marinated to enhance its juiciness and flavor. After searing, the chicken is topped with a rich, cheesy mixture made from Parmesan and Provolone, and a layer of crunchy panko breadcrumbs. This creates the perfect contrast between the crispy exterior and tender interior.
If you’re interested in other mouthwatering recipes, try this Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice for another delicious way to use Parmesan in your meals.
Ingredients Needed
For this copycat recipe, you’ll need the following:
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Marinade:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Parmesan Crust:
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (chopped into bits)
- 1/2 cup Provolone cheese (chopped into bits)
- 6 tablespoons Buttermilk Ranch salad dressing
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
For another cheesy indulgence, check out this recipe for Cheese Steak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce—a perfect comfort food option.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Whisk all the marinade ingredients together until well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts in a freezer bag and pound them to about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
- Add the marinade to the bag, seal it, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for more intense flavor.
Searing the Chicken
- Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
Creating the Parmesan Crust
- Preheat the oven to a low broil (450°F).
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, Provolone cheese, and Ranch dressing. Microwave in 15-second intervals until melted and well-mixed.
- Spread the cheese mixture over each chicken breast.
- Mix melted butter, garlic powder, and panko breadcrumbs in another bowl. Spoon this mixture on top of the cheese layer.
- Broil the chicken for 3-4 minutes, or until the crust turns golden and crispy.
Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Cheese Substitutions: If you can’t find Provolone, substitute it with Swiss, Mozzarella, or Munster cheese for a similar taste and texture.
- Achieving the Perfect Sear: Use a cast iron skillet for the best results, as it holds heat well and gives the chicken a nice golden crust.
- Crispy Crust Tip: Keep an eye on the chicken while broiling to ensure the panko crumbs turn golden without burning.
Cooking Methods: Skillet vs. Baking vs. Grilling
While the skillet method is ideal for this recipe, you can also use other cooking methods:
- Baking: Preheat the oven to 425°F and bake the chicken in an oven-safe dish for 15-18 minutes. Then add the Parmesan crust and broil for a crispy finish.
- Grilling: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken over medium-high heat for 4-7 minutes per side, then add the crust and broil for that final crunch.
Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This rich and flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with the right side dishes:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an ideal pairing, soaking up the delicious flavors from the chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasting broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts with olive oil for a healthy, crunchy side.
- Comforting Casseroles: Add a rich twist with a cheesy side like Corn Casserole or Scalloped Potatoes.
Also, for a fun twist on weeknight dinners, try this Smoked Jalapeño Popper Chicken Bombs recipe for something bold and flavorful.
Nutritional Information and Health Adjustments
Each serving of this Parmesan Crusted Chicken contains approximately 660 calories. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- Calories: 660 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 52g
- Sodium: 1046mg
Healthier Adjustments
If you’re looking to make a lighter version, consider:
- Reducing the amount of cheese or using a low-fat option.
- Using pork rinds instead of panko breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly version.
- Using olive oil spray instead of butter for the breadcrumb mixture.
FAQs
How do you make Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
You marinate the chicken, sear it on both sides, and then top it with a mixture of Parmesan and Provolone cheeses. Finally, you broil the chicken to create a golden crust.
What’s in the Parmesan crust at Longhorn Steakhouse?
The Parmesan crust is made from Parmesan cheese, Provolone cheese, Buttermilk Ranch dressing, and panko breadcrumbs.
Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing it?
Yes, baking is a great alternative. Preheat the oven to 425°F and bake for 15-18 minutes, then broil with the Parmesan crust to finish.
How do you keep the crust crispy after reheating?
To keep the crust crispy, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes instead of using the microwave.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Recipe
Recreating Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home is easier than you think. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can enjoy the same restaurant-quality flavors in your own kitchen. Pair this dish with your favorite sides and make it the star of your next dinner party or weeknight meal.
For more flavor-packed ideas, be sure to explore the other recipes at Flavor Foodie.