If you adore crispy, cheesy, and downright crave-worthy chicken dishes, then you are going to love this Parmesan Crusted Chicken – LongHorn Style Recipe. It’s a beautiful marriage of savory seasonings, golden seared chicken, and a heavenly cheesy crust that melts into crunchy perfection under the broiler. Every bite is bursting with layers of flavor and texture, making it a fantastic centerpiece for an easy weeknight dinner or a special meal when you want to impress without the fuss. Trust me, once you try this Parmesan Crusted Chicken – LongHorn Style Recipe, it might just become your new favorite go-to!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, straightforward, and each one plays a crucial role in creating that signature flavor and texture combo you expect from a LongHorn-inspired dish. From seasoning the chicken just right to building a crust that’s crispy yet cheesy, every item here is essential to nailing this recipe.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The foundation of the dish, tender and perfect for soaking up flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of gentle heat and depth.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic base note.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing): Helps achieve that irresistible golden crust on the chicken.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star of the crust that provides sharp, nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese (or mozzarella): Adds melty richness and mild creaminess.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy texture that holds the crust together.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Gives the crust that golden, buttery finish.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Binds the crust ingredients and keeps the topping moist.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a slight tang and depth to the crust mixture.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The base for the rich and creamy ranch spread.
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing: Injects that signature zesty flavor for the spread.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the ranch spread’s savory profile.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken – LongHorn Style Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This blend ensures every bite is flavorful from the inside out. Don’t rush this step — good seasoning is the secret to a delicious crust and juicy chicken.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Now, gently place your seasoned chicken breasts in the pan and let them cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes per side. The goal is a beautiful golden brown exterior that locks in juices. Use a thermometer to make sure they reach 165°F internally, then set the breasts aside to rest, which keeps them tender.
Step 3: Make the Ranch Spread
While the chicken rests, mix mayonnaise, ranch dressing, and garlic powder in a small bowl until smooth. This creamy ranch spread brings a tangy, flavorful layer that elevates the Parmesan Crusted Chicken – LongHorn Style Recipe beyond ordinary.
Step 4: Prepare the Parmesan Crust
In a separate bowl, combine grated Parmesan, shredded provolone (or mozzarella), and panko breadcrumbs. This trio forms the perfect cheesy and crispy topping crucial to achieving that delicious crust everyone raves about.
Step 5: Add Moisture and Flavor to the Crust
To this mixture, stir in melted butter, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until it looks crumbly but sticks together when pressed. This mixture will cling to the chicken beautifully, creating the signature Parmesan crust texture and taste.
Step 6: Assemble and Broil
Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. Arrange the seared chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Then spread a generous layer of the ranch spread on top of each one. Next, press the Parmesan crust mixture on top of the ranch spread, making sure it’s evenly coated.
Step 7: Broil to Perfection
Place the baking sheet under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and develops a golden brown, bubbling crust. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn. This quick broil step is what brings the whole Parmesan Crusted Chicken – LongHorn Style Recipe to life.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once broiled, your chicken should be perfectly cooked with a crispy, cheesy crust and juicy interior. Serve immediately to enjoy the irresistible textures and flavors at their best.
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken – LongHorn Style Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of vibrant color and a gentle herbal note that complements the richness of the Parmesan Crust perfectly. Lemon wedges on the side also bring a nice brightness if you like a hint of citrus.
Side Dishes
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up every bite of crispy crust, or steamed veggies like broccoli and green beans to lighten the plate with fresh, crisp flavors. For something a bit heartier, a buttery garlic rice or a simple pasta tossed in olive oil works beautifully too.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or make a family dinner feel a little special, try plating your chicken atop a bed of sautéed spinach or a light arugula salad. You can also slice the chicken breast and serve over warm garlic bread to turn this recipe into a mouthwatering sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, maintaining good flavor and texture when properly wrapped.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer bag. For best results, consume within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly heated. This method helps keep the crust crispy unlike microwaving, which may soften the cheesy topping.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and slightly more fat, which can be delicious. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture will be slightly different but still enjoyable and crispy.
Can I prepare the ranch spread ahead of time?
Definitely! The ranch spread can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. This can even help the flavors meld together for an even tastier topping.
What if I don’t have a broiler?
No worries. You can bake the assembled chicken at 400°F for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, though it may not get quite as crispy on top.
Can I use other cheeses besides Parmesan and provolone?
Sure! Mozzarella or even a sharp cheddar can work. Just be mindful that Parmesan is key to the classic LongHorn flavor, so try to keep it as part of your cheese mixture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Parmesan Crusted Chicken – LongHorn Style Recipe that makes every mealtime feel like a little celebration. It’s straightforward enough for any home cook but delivers on all the rich, cheesy, crispy textures that keep people coming back for more. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and enjoy every bite!
Print
Parmesan Crusted Chicken – LongHorn Style Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiling and Searing (Stovetop and Oven Broiling)
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delicious Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe inspired by LongHorn Steakhouse, featuring tender seared chicken breasts topped with a flavorful Parmesan and cheese crust, broiled to golden perfection, and served with a creamy ranch spread.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
Parmesan Crust
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Ranch Spread
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to ensure a flavorful base.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, sear the seasoned chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from heat and let rest.
- Make the Ranch Spread: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ranch dressing, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly and set aside for spreading later.
- Prepare the Parmesan Crust: In a separate bowl, mix together grated Parmesan cheese, shredded provolone (or mozzarella), and panko breadcrumbs.
- Combine Crust Ingredients: Stir melted butter, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard into the cheese and breadcrumbs mixture until it becomes crumbly but holds its shape when pressed.
- Preheat Broiler: Set your oven broiler to high to prepare for finishing the crust.
- Place Chicken on Baking Sheet: Arrange the seared chicken breasts evenly on a baking sheet ready for broiling.
- Apply Ranch Spread: Spread a generous layer of the prepared ranch spread on top of each chicken breast.
- Add Parmesan Crust: Top each ranch-coated chicken breast with the Parmesan crust mixture, pressing lightly to adhere well.
- Broil the Chicken: Place the chicken under the preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts and becomes golden brown. Monitor closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Serve the Parmesan Crusted Chicken immediately alongside preferred sides such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Watch the chicken closely during broiling as the cheese crust can brown quickly and burn if left unattended.
- Substitute provolone with mozzarella if preferred for a milder flavor.
- The ranch spread adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the crispy crust; do not skip it for best flavor.
- Letting the chicken rest after searing helps retain juices and keeps it moist.
