Description
This Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts marinated in a zesty ranch and Worcestershire sauce blend, pan-seared to golden perfection, and topped with a savory, crispy Parmesan and panko crust. Finished under the broiler for a bubbly, golden topping, it makes for a delicious and comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Parmesan Crust
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Provolone cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice by whisking them together to create a flavorful marinade.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika evenly over the chicken breasts to season them thoroughly.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Heat the Skillet: Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat to prepare for searing the chicken.
- Prepare Chicken for Cooking: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting the excess drip off to avoid excess moisture during cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Cook the chicken breasts in the skillet for 5-6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Transfer to Baking Sheet: Once cooked, move the chicken breasts onto a baking sheet to prepare for broiling.
- Make the Parmesan Crust: In a small bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, Provolone cheese, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Preheat the Broiler: Set your oven broiler to high heat to get ready for finishing the chicken with the crust.
- Apply the Parmesan Mixture: Spoon the prepared Parmesan crust mixture evenly over the top of each cooked chicken breast.
- Broil the Chicken: Place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese topping becomes golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain juices and maximize flavor.
- Garnish: Optionally sprinkle fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese over the chicken for added taste and presentation.
- Serve: Pair the Parmesan crusted chicken with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 2 hours to avoid over-tenderizing the meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Keep an eye on the chicken under the broiler as it can quickly go from golden to burnt.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide a crispier crust but regular breadcrumbs can be substituted.
- Allowing the chicken to rest post-cooking helps keep it juicy and tender.