Imagine sitting down to a plate of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken, its golden, crispy crust giving way to juicy, tender chicken bursting with savory flavor. The restaurant’s iconic dish, with its creamy ranch spread and cheesy Parmesan-panko topping, is a crowd-pleaser that feels like a special treat. But what if you could recreate this mouthwatering meal at home without the hefty price tag? This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken brings that dream to life, delivering restaurant-quality taste in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this oven-baked dish is your ticket to a joyful meal.
This recipe isdesigned for anyone, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook. With simple ingredients like chicken breasts, Parmesan cheese, and panko breadcrumbs, you’ll create a dish that’s crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s customizable, think parmesan crusted chicken with mayo for extra richness or a garlic parmesan crust recipe for bold flavor. We’ve included step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and answers to common questions like “How do I get the Parmesan to stick?” to ensure your success. Ready to bring Longhorn’s magic to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this easy, flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a game-changer for anyone craving restaurant-quality comfort food at home. First, it delivers that iconic Longhorn flavor, think juicy chicken topped with a creamy, tangy ranch spread and a crispy parmesan crusted chicken with mayo and panko topping, without the need for a reservation or a big budget. You’ll love how easy it is to make, with pantry staples like Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs transforming simple chicken breasts into something extraordinary.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights, ready in under an hour, yet feels special enough for date nights or family gatherings. The recipe is also incredibly versatile: swap panko for almond flour for a keto-friendly version or use mayo for a richer parmesan crusted chicken with mayo. Plus, the garlicky, cheesy crust is so irresistible, even picky eaters will ask for seconds. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this oven-baked parmesan chicken recipe is designed to impress with minimal effort. Prepare to enjoy every bite, full of crunch and cheesy flavor.
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’ll need a handful of simple, accessible ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Each component plays a key role in recreating the restaurant’s iconic juicy chicken and crispy, cheesy crust. Below, we’ve broken down the ingredients for the marinade, ranch spread, and Parmesan-panko topping, with substitutions to suit various dietary needs and tips for success.
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to ¾-inch thickness): Ensures even cooking and tender texture. Use thighs for a juicier option.
- ½ cup Italian salad dressing: Adds tangy, herbaceous flavor. Make your own with ⅓ cup olive oil, 2 tbsp white vinegar, 2 tsp lemon juice, ¼ tsp oregano, ¼ tsp garlic powder, and ¼ tsp black pepper.
- ⅓ cup ranch dressing: Brings creamy, tangy depth. Buttermilk ranch adds extra zing, or use mayo for a parmesan crusted chicken with mayo twist.
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Enhances umami and savory notes.
- 1 tbsp minced garlic: Infuses bold flavor for a garlic parmesan crust recipe.
- ¾ tsp ground black pepper and pinch of salt: Seasons the chicken perfectly.
For the Ranch Spread:
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides sharp, nutty flavor. Use freshly grated for best results.
- ¼ cup ranch dressing: Creates a creamy base that helps the crust adhere. Substitute with mayonnaise for richer flavor.
- 4 slices of provolone cheese: melts smoothly to create a luscious, gooey layer. Mozzarella or Monterey Jack work as alternatives.
For the Parmesan-Panko Topping:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Delivers a light, crispy texture. Use almond flour for a keto-friendly parmesan crust recipe.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds cheesy, savory crunch.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the topping and enhances richness.
- 1 tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper: Elevates the garlic parmesan crust recipe with bold seasoning.
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley brings vibrant color and a hint of fresh flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is easier than you might think, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with straightforward steps. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, these detailed instructions, expert tips, and troubleshooting advice will guide you to a perfectly juicy chicken with a crispy, cheesy crust. Let’s get started with this oven-baked parmesan chicken that’s sure to impress your family or guests.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Pound the Chicken: Lay 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap or inside a zip-top bag. Press the chicken evenly with a meat mallet until it’s about ¾ inch thick. This step helps the chicken cook evenly and tender results.
- Tip: If you don’t have a mallet, use a rolling pin or heavy skillet.
- Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together ½ cup Italian salad dressing, ⅓ cup ranch dressing, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp minced garlic, ¾ tsp ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt. This tangy, savory marinade infuses the chicken with bold flavor, perfect for a garlic parmesan crust recipe.
- Marinate: Place the chicken in a gallon-sized resealable bag or a bowl. Evenly spread the marinade over the chicken so all sides are covered. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2–4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Troubleshooting: If short on time, a 30-minute marinade still works, but longer marination enhances tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Ranch Spread
- Mix ¼ cup of grated Parmesan with ¼ cup of ranch dressing, or use mayo for a parmesan crusted chicken with mayo variation. Stir until smooth. This creamy spread acts as a “glue” for the crust and adds tangy richness.
- Tip: Use the Parmesan fresh for enhance both the taste and texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan-Panko Topping
- In another bowl, mix ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for keto), ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup melted unsalted butter, 1 tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. This step creates the iconic crispy Parmesan crust that makes the dish stand out.
- Troubleshooting: If the topping feels too dry, add an extra 1–2 tsp melted butter.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using the broiler later, position the oven rack 6–8 inches from the heat source.
- Sear the Chicken: Take the chicken out of the marinade and allow any extra to drain off (discard the remaining marinade). Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temp of 160°F.
- Alternative Oven Method: For a no-sear option, place marinated chicken in a greased baking dish and bake at 425°F for 15–18 minutes until it hits 160°F.
- Tip: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Assemble and Broil
- Transfer seared (or baked) chicken to an oven-safe dish if not using an oven-safe skillet.
- Spoon the ranch spread evenly over each breast. Place a slice of provolone on top of each chicken breast once it’s cooked.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan-panko topping generously over the cheese, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Broil: Preheat the broiler to low. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is fully melted and the panko topping becomes golden and crunchy.
- Troubleshooting: If the crust begins to brown too quickly, lower the rack in the oven or lightly cover the dish with foil to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve
Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes so the juices can redistribute and keep it tender. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with sides like garlic mashed potato or oven-roasted asparagus.
Tips and Variations
This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is already a crowd-pleaser, but a few tweaks and tips can make it even more tailored to your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you’re looking to enhance the flavor, save time, or accommodate specific diets, these suggestions will help you nail the perfect oven-baked parmesan chicken every time.
Dietary Swaps
- Keto-Friendly: Swap panko breadcrumbs for almond flour in the topping to keep it low-carb while maintaining a crispy parmesan crust recipe. Almond flour adds a nutty flavor that complements the cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers to make this dish celiac-friendly. Ensure your ranch dressing and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute provolone with dairy-free cheese and use vegan mayonnaise instead of ranch dressing for a creamy, dairy-free parmesan crusted chicken with mayo.
Flavor Enhancements
- Bolder Garlic Flavor: For a true garlic parmesan crust recipe, add an extra ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp minced fresh garlic to the panko topping. You can also enhance the taste with herbs such as rosemary or thyme.
- Rich and Creamy Twist: Replace ranch dressing in the spread with mayonnaise for a parmesan crusted chicken with mayo and panko variation. Mayo creates a richer, slightly tangier base that pairs perfectly with the cheesy crust.
- Spicy Kick: Mix ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the panko topping for a subtle heat that complements the savory flavors.
Time-Saving Tips
- Prep Ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before and store in the fridge. This cuts active prep time to under 30 minutes.
- Skip the Sear: For a quicker method, skip the skillet and bake the chicken directly in the oven at 425°F for 15–18 minutes, then add the toppings and broil.
Alternative Uses
- Parmesan Crusted Steak or Pork: Love the crust? Use the same ranch spread and panko topping on grilled steak or pork chops for a delicious twist. Apply after cooking and broil briefly for a golden finish.
- Vegetarian Option: Try the topping on thick portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices for a meat-free alternative.
Troubleshooting
- Soggy Crust? Ensure the panko topping is evenly coated with melted butter and broil on low to avoid burning while achieving crispiness.
- Crust Not Sticking? Press the panko mixture gently onto the ranch spread and provolone to help it adhere before broiling.
Storage
Keeping your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken fresh and flavorful is easy with proper storage techniques. Whether you have leftovers or want to prep this oven-baked parmesan chicken ahead of time, these guidelines will help you maintain its juicy texture and crispy parmesan crust recipe for future meals.
- Refrigeration: Place leftover chicken in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. To preserve the crust’s crispiness, avoid stacking pieces directly on top of each other.
- Freezing: For longer storage, wrap each piece of chicken individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe resealable bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Mark the container with the date to monitor freshness.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven or air fryer for 10–15 minutes to restore the crispy texture of the parmesan crusted chicken with mayo and panko. Flip halfway through for even heating. Reheating in the microwave is not recommended, as it may soften the crust.
- Tip: For frozen chicken, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure even warming.
How to Serve
This parmesan crusted chicken brings a steakhouse-style meal to your home table.
With its golden, crispy parmesan crust recipe and juicy, flavorful chicken, this dish deserves to shine on your plate. Here’s how to present it beautifully and pair it for maximum enjoyment.
- Presentation: Arrange the chicken on a warm platter and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant pop of color. For an elegant touch, drizzle a little extra melted butter over the parmesan crusted chicken with mayo and panko to enhance its glossy, appetizing look.
- Side Dish Pairings: Complement the rich, cheesy flavors with classic sides like garlic mashed potatoes for creamy comfort or roasted asparagus for a fresh, crisp balance. A Caesar salad or buttery dinner rolls make great additions for a Longhorn-inspired meal.
- Occasions: This oven-baked parmesan chicken is versatile enough for cozy weeknight dinners, date nights, or casual gatherings with friends. Serve alongside a lemon-infused sparkling water for a light and refreshing pairing.
Nutritional Breakdown
Understanding the nutritional profile of this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe helps you enjoy this delicious dish while staying mindful of your dietary goals. Below is an approximate breakdown per serving, based on four servings, with notes on how substitutions can alter the values. This oven-baked parmesan chicken is hearty and satisfying, making it a great option for a balanced meal.
- Calories: ~660 kcal
- Protein: ~35g (supports muscle health, thanks to the chicken).
- Fat: ~52g (from the ranch spread, butter, and cheese; use almond flour for a keto-friendly parmesan crust recipe to reduce carbs).
- Carbohydrates: ~13g (primarily from panko; swap for almond flour to lower to ~5g for keto diets).
- Sodium: ~1064mg (from cheese, ranch, and Worcestershire sauce; use low-sodium options if needed).
Notes:
- **Using mayonnaise instead of ranch for a parmesan crusted chicken with mayo variation may slightly increase fat content but enhances richness.
- **Gluten-free panko or dairy-free cheese will have similar nutritional profiles but check labels for specifics.
- **Values are approximate and vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
FAQs
Curious about how to recreate Longhorn’s signature Parmesan Crusted Chicken in your own kitchen? We’ve compiled answers to the most common queries to ensure your oven-baked parmesan chicken turns out crispy, juicy, and delicious every time. These responses address cooking challenges, dietary swaps, and more.
1. What kind of sauce goes on Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Unlike traditional chicken Parmesan with marinara, Longhorn’s version uses a creamy ranch spread made from ranch dressing and grated Parmesan cheese. This tangy, cheesy layer is spread over the chicken before adding provolone and the panko topping, creating a rich base for the parmesan crust recipe. For a twist, try parmesan crusted chicken with mayo by swapping ranch for mayonnaise for an even creamier texture.
2. Which three ingredients are essential for Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
The core components of this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe are:
Chicken Breasts: Marinated for tenderness and flavor.
Ranch Spread: A blend of ranch dressing (or mayo) and Parmesan for creaminess.
Parmesan panko topping: is made with panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and melted butter to create a golden, crispy layer.
3. How much does the Parmesan Crusted Chicken cost at Longhorn Steakhouse?
Pricing varies by location and isn’t standardized across Longhorn Steakhouse restaurants. For the most accurate cost, check with your local restaurant. Making this oven-baked parmesan chicken at home is a budget-friendly alternative, often costing less than $15 for four servings.
4. What can I do to make sure the Parmesan crust sticks properly to the chicken?
To ensure the parmesan crust recipe adheres:
Use a creamy base: The ranch spread (or mayo for parmesan crusted chicken with mayo) acts as a glue for the provolone and panko topping.
Press gently: After layering the spread and cheese, sprinkle the panko mixture and press lightly to secure it.
Broil carefully: Low broiling melts the cheese, binding the crust without burning.
5. Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! For a low-carb twist, replace panko breadcrumbs with almond flour and use mayonnaise to help the crust hold, ideal for keto diets. Ensure your ranch dressing and Worcestershire sauce are low-carb. This keeps the dish rich and crispy while fitting a keto diet.
6. What should I use to prepare a gluten-free version of this dish?
Use gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping. Verify that your ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian dressing are gluten-free. This keeps the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing crunch.
7. How does Parmesan Crusted Chicken differ from classic Chicken Parmesan?
Parmesan crusted chicken, like Longhorn’s, features a creamy ranch spread and a panko-Parmesan topping, broiled for crispiness. Traditional chicken Parmesan is breaded, fried, and topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella. Longhorn’s version is lighter and creamier, with a garlic parmesan crust recipe focus.
8. Can I use mayonnaise instead of ranch dressing?
Absolutely! Using mayonnaise in the spread creates a richer, creamier parmesan crusted chicken with mayo and panko. It’s a popular variation that enhances the dish’s decadence while maintaining the signature flavor.
9. How can I keep the crust crunchy and prevent it from becoming soggy?
To keep the parmesan crust recipe crispy:
Even butter coating: Make sure that the panko is well-coated with melted butter to achieve that crispy texture.
Broil on low: Watch closely to avoid overcooking, which can release moisture.
Serve immediately: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, but avoid covering tightly to prevent steam from softening the crust.
10. Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge. You can also prepare the ranch spread and panko topping ahead. Assemble and cook when ready, or bake and refrigerate for up to 3 days, reheating in a 350°F oven to restore the parmesan crusted chicken with mayo texture.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like biting into a piece of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken, crisp, golden, and bursting with cheesy, garlicky goodness. This oven-baked parmesan chicken recipe brings that restaurant magic to your kitchen, making it easy to impress your family or guests without spending hours cooking or breaking the bank. With a tangy ranch spread, melty provolone, and a crunchy parmesan crusted chicken with mayo and panko topping, every bite feels like a special occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to earn rave reviews.
Ready to recreate this Longhorn classic? Grab your ingredients, follow our foolproof steps, and savor the joy of a homemade meal that rivals your favorite steakhouse. Try pairing it with sides like garlic mashed potatoes or roasted asparagus for a complete meal. Share your results in the comments below, we’d love to hear how your parmesan crust recipe turned out! Try it tonight and make every meal a celebration.