Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

There's nothing quite like the irresistible combination of tender, juicy chicken topped with a golden, cheesy crust. This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe brings the beloved restaurant dish right to your home kitchen, with all the creamy, savory flavors you love.

this Recipe

I discovered this gem during a date night at Longhorn Steakhouse and couldn’t get enough of the creamy ranch base and melty cheese topping. After much experimenting, I’ve perfected a version that tastes just as delicious, yet is simple enough to whip up for a weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Get ready to impress your taste buds (and your family) with this incredible recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

First, the flavor profile is unbeatable. The chicken is marinated and cooked to perfection, while the topping combines parmesan, ranch dressing, and a blend of cheeses for a creamy, tangy, and crunchy finish.

It's surprisingly easy to make. While it might look like a restaurant-quality dish that takes hours, you’ll have this on the table in under 45 minutes.

You can make it your own. With a versatile recipe like this, there are plenty of ways to adapt the toppings and seasonings to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs.

Finally, it’s a budget-friendly way to recreate a restaurant favorite. Instead of dining out, you’ll enjoy the same great flavors at a fraction of the cost, using simple, accessible ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this dish’s success is the combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients and a little bit of technique. Let’s break down the key components.

The chicken is the star of the show. For this recipe, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Pounding them to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.

The marinade is essential for tender, flavorful chicken. A mix of Italian dressing, lemon juice, and garlic infuses the chicken with tangy, savory notes that perfectly complement the cheesy topping.

The topping is where the magic happens. Start with a creamy layer of ranch dressing and a sprinkling of shredded parmesan cheese. The final touch? A blend of cheddar, provolone, and crispy panko breadcrumbs to create that signature golden crust.

Don’t forget the seasoning! A blend of salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika adds depth to the dish, while dried herbs like parsley or thyme provide a hint of freshness.

For the perfect crust, you’ll need panko breadcrumbs. These are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, giving your chicken that satisfying crunch. If you don’t have panko, crushed crackers or homemade breadcrumbs work in a pinch.

How To Make This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Creating this iconic dish at home is easier than you think! Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting it just right.

Start by marinating the chicken. Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a zip-top bag with Italian dressing, a squeeze of lemon juice, and minced garlic. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, sear the chicken. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the marinated chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

Prepare the topping. Spread a layer of ranch dressing over each piece of chicken, then sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese. In a separate bowl, mix shredded cheddar, provolone, and panko breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter for extra crispiness.

Bake to perfection. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). During the last few minutes of baking, switch the oven to broil to get that beautiful, golden crust.

Serve and enjoy! Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair it with a fresh green salad, roasted veggies, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Storage Options

This dish is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

To store, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag once frozen. Reheat from frozen or thawed as needed.

Reheating is simple. Place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Cover loosely with foil to prevent the crust from over-browning.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Here are a few ideas to customize your Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for the topping.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly crust.
• Different Cheeses: Swap out cheddar and provolone for mozzarella or gouda to experiment with flavors.
• Add Spice: Mix a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes into the breadcrumbs for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Twist: Replace the chicken with thick slices of eggplant or zucchini for a meat-free version that’s just as satisfying.

No matter how you adapt it, this Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is guaranteed to be a hit. So go ahead, grab your skillet, and get ready to wow your family with this restaurant-worthy dish!

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