If you’ve ever dined at LongHorn Steakhouse, chances are you’ve encountered their famous Parmesan Crusted Chicken—a juicy, flavorful chicken breast topped with a crispy, savory Parmesan and breadcrumb crust that is utterly irresistible. It’s one of the most beloved items on their menu, and for good reason. The tender chicken, perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, is elevated by a creamy ranch spread and a crunchy, cheesy crust that delivers bold flavor in every bite.
Now, imagine being able to recreate this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. With this detailed and comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to make a homemade version of LongHorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken that rivals the original. Not only is this recipe simple to follow, but it also uses everyday ingredients, making it an accessible and impressive dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight family dinner or hosting guests for a special gathering, this dish will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
This recipe covers every step, from perfectly seasoning and cooking the chicken to creating the iconic creamy ranch spread and crispy Parmesan crust. Plus, you’ll find plenty of tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make this dish your own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: This recipe captures the exact flavors and textures of LongHorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken, bringing a gourmet dining experience to your own kitchen.
- Bold and Comforting Flavors: The creamy ranch spread, savory Parmesan crust, and juicy chicken create a delicious combination of flavors and textures.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples like chicken, cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, this recipe is both convenient and budget-friendly.
- Versatile: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, from mashed potatoes to fresh salads, making it perfect for any meal.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with different cheeses, herbs, or sauces to suit your taste preferences.
- Family-Friendly: Its creamy, cheesy flavor appeals to both kids and adults, making it a family dinner favorite.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with Parmesan crust
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 48g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 2g
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Ranch Spread:
- ½ cup ranch dressing (or homemade ranch)
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Parmesan Crust:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures a good sear.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add a bit of olive oil and sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in moisture and adds flavor.
3. Make the Creamy Ranch Spread
- In a small bowl, mix the ranch dressing, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Spread a generous layer of the ranch mixture over the seared chicken breasts.
4. Prepare the Parmesan Crust
- In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, shredded Parmesan, and melted butter. Mix well to ensure the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture evenly over the ranch-covered chicken breasts.
5. Bake the Chicken
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden and crispy.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Ingredient Background
Chicken Breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. They’re lean, high in protein, and perfect for absorbing seasonings and toppings. For extra juiciness, pound the chicken to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
Parmesan Cheese
Freshly shredded Parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor to both the creamy spread and the crispy topping. Avoid pre-grated Parmesan for this recipe, as it doesn’t melt as well.
Panko Breadcrumbs
Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and flakier than regular breadcrumbs, resulting in a crispier crust. You can toast them in butter before baking for an extra crunchy texture.
Ranch Dressing
Ranch dressing forms the base of the creamy spread, adding tanginess and creaminess. Use homemade or high-quality store-bought ranch for the best flavor.
Technique Tips
Pound the Chicken Evenly
Using a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures that the chicken cooks uniformly, preventing the thinner ends from drying out before the thicker parts are done. Aim for about ½ inch thickness. If you don’t have a meat mallet, a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan can work just as well. Pounding the chicken not only promotes even cooking but also tenderizes the meat, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful bite.
Toast the Panko
For an extra crispy and flavorful crust, toast the panko breadcrumbs in a small amount of melted butter over medium heat until golden brown before adding them to the chicken. This pre-toasting step intensifies the nutty flavor of the breadcrumbs and prevents them from becoming soggy during baking. Be sure to stir frequently to avoid burning and allow the breadcrumbs to cool slightly before mixing them with Parmesan.
Use an Oven-Safe Skillet
Searing the chicken in an oven-safe skillet, such as a cast-iron or stainless steel pan, allows you to easily transfer the chicken from stovetop to oven without losing any of the flavorful pan juices. This method locks in moisture, develops a rich, golden-brown crust on the chicken, and minimizes dishes, making cleanup easier. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish before adding the toppings.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
Parmesan Chicken Sandwich
Transform this dish into a mouthwatering sandwich by slicing the cooked Parmesan Crusted Chicken and layering it on a toasted brioche bun. Add crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, and an extra drizzle of ranch dressing for added creaminess. For a gourmet twist, top it with caramelized onions or melted provolone cheese. Serve with seasoned fries or a side salad for a complete meal.
Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Turn this dish into a hearty pasta dinner by serving the Parmesan Crusted Chicken over creamy Alfredo pasta or a bed of spaghetti with marinara sauce. The crispy Parmesan topping pairs beautifully with rich, creamy sauces or tangy tomato-based ones. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
Appetizer Bites
For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces before baking. After cooking, insert toothpicks into each piece and serve them with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or garlic aioli for dipping. This fun and flavorful option is perfect for game days, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers.
Additional Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. To avoid this, use a meat thermometer and cook the chicken until it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally. This ensures the meat is safe to eat while remaining juicy and tender.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients—especially Parmesan cheese and herbs—makes a significant difference in flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which doesn’t melt as well due to added anti-caking agents.
- Rest Before Slicing: Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish.
Recipe Variations
Spicy Parmesan Chicken
Give this dish a spicy kick by adding ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also drizzle hot sauce over the chicken before adding the Parmesan crust for even more heat.
Herb-Crusted Chicken
For a more herbaceous twist, mix freshly chopped herbs like basil, parsley, oregano, or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture. This variation adds a fragrant aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Low-Carb Version
Swap the panko breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour to make this dish keto-friendly. These alternatives provide a crispy, flavorful crust while keeping the dish low in carbs.
Freezing and Storage
Refrigeration
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore its crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the cooked chicken to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, reheat the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through and crispy.
Healthier Twist Ideas
Use Greek Yogurt Ranch
Replace the traditional ranch dressing with a Greek yogurt-based version for a lighter, protein-packed alternative. Greek yogurt ranch has the same tangy flavor but with less fat and more protein.
Grilled Version
For a healthier spin, grill the seasoned chicken breasts instead of searing and baking. Skip the breadcrumb topping and instead finish the grilled chicken with a light sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs.
Vegetable Crust
Swap the panko breadcrumbs for a mixture of finely chopped nuts, seeds, or ground flaxseeds. This adds healthy fats, fiber, and nutrients while maintaining a delicious crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier than chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may cook faster.
2. How do I make the crust crispier?
Toast the panko breadcrumbs in butter before adding them to the chicken. Baking the chicken on a wire rack also helps air circulate around the chicken, resulting in a crispier crust.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken with the ranch spread and breadcrumb topping, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
4. What sides go well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, garlic green beans, roasted vegetables, Caesar salad, or pasta are all excellent sides that complement this dish.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the crust crispy.
6. Can I use other cheeses?
Yes! Asiago, mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses can be used for a different flavor profile.
7. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.
8. Can I make this spicy?
Absolutely! Add cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or drizzle hot sauce over the chicken before baking for extra heat.
Conclusion
LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a restaurant-quality dish that you can easily recreate at home. The juicy, well-seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy ranch spread and the crispy, golden Parmesan crust, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. This dish brings together bold flavors and contrasting textures in every bite, making it a standout choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Not only is this recipe incredibly flavorful, but it’s also versatile and customizable. You can spice it up, swap in different cheeses, or make it low-carb to suit any dietary preference. Paired with your favorite sides, this dish can be the centerpiece of a cozy family dinner or a show-stopping addition to a dinner party menu.
By following this simple yet delicious recipe, you’ll be able to serve a meal that tastes like it came straight from LongHorn Steakhouse. With its perfect blend of savory, creamy, and crispy elements, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll return to time and time again.