Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

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Introduction

Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is a dish that brings the irresistible flavors of a restaurant classic right into your home. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts, perfectly coated in a crispy parmesan crust and smothered in a creamy ranch-based sauce. This homemade version of the popular Longhorn Steakhouse favorite is sure to impress your family and guests alike. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. The crispy parmesan coating paired with the savory seasoning and melted cheese creates a harmonious medley of flavors that’s hard to resist.

I’ll never forget the first time I made this for a special dinner at home. The moment I pulled it out of the oven, the golden, cheesy crust and the savory aroma filled the kitchen, setting the stage for an unforgettable meal. The combination of parmesan and savory seasonings gives each bite a satisfying crunch, while the creamy ranch sauce adds a rich, comforting touch.

What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare while still offering that decadent, restaurant-quality experience. Whether you’re serving it with a side of garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad, this dish will quickly become a go-to for weeknight dinners or when you want to treat yourself to something extra special. The crispy parmesan crust and creamy sauce are a flavor combination that’s hard to resist—and even harder to forget!

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Dinner parties
  • Comfort food lovers
  • Quick but impressive meals

Why You’ll Love This Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Here’s why Longhorn Parmesan Chicken deserves a spot on your meal plan:

  • Crispy and Flavorful Parmesan Crust: The crispy parmesan topping is packed with flavor and adds the perfect crunch to the tender chicken.
  • Juicy and Tender Chicken: Cooking the chicken to perfection ensures it remains juicy and flavorful.
  • Easy and Quick: Despite its gourmet look and taste, this recipe comes together in under 40 minutes.
  • Restaurant-Quality Meal: Enjoy a dish that tastes like it’s straight from a steakhouse, but at a fraction of the cost.
  • Customizable: Adjust the seasoning and cheese to your preference for a personalized twist.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 38g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Longhorn Parmesan Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (for the crust)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup ranch dressing (for sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

  • Parmesan Cheese: A key ingredient that adds sharp, nutty flavor to the crispy crust.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: These ensure the crust is light and crispy.
  • Ranch Dressing: Used as a flavorful sauce base, adding creaminess and tang.
  • Olive Oil and Butter: Helps create a golden, crisp topping while keeping the chicken juicy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Longhorn Parmesan Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Pound the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch).
  3. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.

Make the Parmesan Crust:

  1. Prepare the Mixture: In a bowl, combine grated parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Stir until evenly mixed and crumbly.

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
  2. Top with Crust: Evenly spread the parmesan-panko mixture over the top of each chicken breast. Lightly press down to adhere the crust.
  3. Bake: Place the chicken in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown.

Add Cheese and Sauce:

  1. Melt the Cheese: In the last 2-3 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the chicken and return to the oven. Let the cheese melt and bubble.
  2. Add Sauce: Warm the ranch dressing in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave. Drizzle it over the baked chicken or serve on the side for dipping.

How to Serve Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Longhorn Parmesan Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes:

  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for this flavorful chicken.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a healthy balance to the meal.
  • Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a filling and complete meal.
  • Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.

Additional Tips for Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Here are some tips to perfect your Longhorn Parmesan Chicken:

  • Pound the Chicken Evenly: This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
  • Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing locks in the juices and adds extra flavor.
  • Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and has a more robust flavor than pre-grated varieties.
  • Adjust Cooking Time: If your chicken breasts are thicker, you may need to bake them longer. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
  • Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices.

Recipe Variations for Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Here are 10 ways to customize your Longhorn Parmesan Chicken:

  1. Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning for a kick of heat.
  2. Herb-Crusted Chicken: Mix chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme into the parmesan crust.
  3. Garlic-Parmesan Chicken: Double the garlic powder or add fresh minced garlic for extra garlicky flavor.
  4. Lemon Parmesan Chicken: Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving for a bright, citrusy touch.
  5. Buffalo Ranch Chicken: Use buffalo ranch dressing for a spicy twist on the sauce.
  6. BBQ Parmesan Chicken: Replace the ranch dressing with your favorite barbecue sauce for a sweet and tangy variation.
  7. Gluten-Free Parmesan Chicken: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
  8. Keto Parmesan Chicken: Skip the breadcrumbs and use almond flour for a low-carb alternative.
  9. Four-Cheese Chicken: Add a blend of cheeses like provolone, gouda, or asiago for extra cheesiness.
  10. Mushroom Parmesan Chicken: Add sautéed mushrooms on top of the chicken before adding the parmesan crust.

Freezing and Storage for Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

  • Freezing: Freeze leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
  • Storage: Store leftover chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment for Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make Longhorn Parmesan Chicken:

  • Meat Mallet: For pounding the chicken breasts evenly.
  • Non-Stick Skillet: To sear the chicken before baking.
  • Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking.
  • Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Frequently Asked Questions for Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
    Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time as they may take slightly longer to cook.
  2. What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
    You can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko creates a lighter and crispier crust.
  3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the chicken and parmesan crust in advance. Store separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
  4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
    Yes, substitute dairy-free cheese and ranch dressing to make this recipe dairy-free.
  5. Can I air fry this recipe?
    Yes, cook the chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add the parmesan crust and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden.

Conclusion

Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is a delightful blend of crispy, cheesy goodness and juicy chicken that’s sure to become a household favorite. With its simple preparation and impressive flavors, it’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you have a meal that will impress every time. The crispy, golden coating is perfectly complemented by a rich, cheesy topping that adds an irresistible crunch and depth of flavor to each bite. Whether paired with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad, Longhorn Parmesan Chicken makes for a well-rounded and satisfying dish.

This easy-to-follow recipe ensures you can enjoy restaurant-quality chicken right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a cozy dinner for one, Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is sure to leave everyone asking for more.

I’d love to see how your Longhorn Parmesan Chicken turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!