Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A Restaurant-Worthy Dish You Can Make at Home
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Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a fan favorite, known for its tender, juicy chicken breast topped with a rich, cheesy parmesan crust. With this copycat recipe, you can recreate the same delicious dish right in your own kitchen, delivering restaurant-quality flavor without leaving home.
In this article, we’ll guide you through making Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, highlight its nutritional benefits, and offer tips for customizing it to suit your preferences. Let’s dive into this indulgent yet easy-to-make dish!
What is Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Parmesan crusted chicken is a tender, seasoned chicken breast pan-seared or grilled, then topped with a creamy ranch sauce and a crispy, golden parmesan topping. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy sauce, and cheesy crust creates a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or when you want to treat yourself to something special.
This copycat version replicates the signature flavors and textures of the Longhorn Steakhouse favorite, giving you all the satisfaction of dining out from the comfort of home.
Why You Should Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This dish is not only delicious—it’s versatile, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to prepare. Here’s why you should try it:
1. Easy to Make
Despite its rich flavor and gourmet appearance, this dish comes together with just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps.
2. Restaurant-Quality at Home
Save money and skip the wait by making this popular restaurant dish in your own kitchen.
3. Customizable
Adjust the flavors and toppings to suit your taste, or pair it with different sides for a complete meal.
4. Kid-Friendly
The cheesy crust and juicy chicken make this dish a hit with both kids and adults.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a special dinner or a casual family meal, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.
The Health Benefits of Parmesan Crusted Chicken
1. High in Protein
Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
2. Rich in Calcium
The parmesan and cheese topping provide calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.
3. Low in Carbs
This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb and keto-friendly diets.
4. Versatile for Meal Prep
This chicken reheats beautifully, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prep.
Key Ingredients for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this iconic dish:
- Chicken Breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the base of this recipe. - Seasonings
Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika season the chicken perfectly. - Ranch Dressing
Used as the creamy layer beneath the parmesan topping. - Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated parmesan is essential for the crispy, flavorful crust. - Provolone Cheese
Adds a melty, creamy layer beneath the parmesan topping. - Panko Breadcrumbs
Creates the crunchy, golden topping. - Butter or Olive Oil
Helps achieve the crispy crust on the chicken.
How to Make Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Follow these steps to recreate this restaurant favorite at home:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter or olive oil.
- Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix grated parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and a pinch of garlic powder.
- Spread a thin layer of ranch dressing on each chicken breast. Top with provolone cheese slices and the parmesan-panko mixture.
Step 5: Broil the Chicken
- Turn your oven to broil.
- Place the chicken under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the topping is golden and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving (1 chicken breast):
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | ~400 |
Protein | 40g |
Carbohydrates | 8g |
Fat | 22g |
Sodium | ~750mg |
Variations and Customizations for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This dish is incredibly adaptable. Here are some ways to make it your own:
1. Use Different Cheeses
- Swap provolone for mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
2. Add Herbs
- Include fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley in the breadcrumb mixture for added aroma.
3. Make It Spicy
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
4. Gluten-Free Option
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of panko.
5. Try a Different Sauce
- Substitute ranch with Caesar dressing, garlic aioli, or even a light alfredo sauce for a unique twist.
Storing and Reheating Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Storing Leftovers
Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the crispy crust. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the topping soggy.
Conclusion: A Dish Worth Repeating
Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a restaurant-quality dish that you can easily recreate at home. Its juicy chicken, creamy topping, and crispy parmesan crust make it an irresistible addition to any meal.
Your Next Step
Ready to wow your family or guests? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps above, and bring the flavors of Longhorn Steakhouse into your kitchen.
Do you have your own twist on this dish? Share your tips and variations in the comments below—we’d love to see how you make it your own!