LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken

There’s something utterly irresistible about that first bite of crispy, cheesy, golden-crusted chicken—the kind that crackles beneath your fork and melts in your mouth in the most glorious way. LongHorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken is exactly that kind of unforgettable. It combines tender grilled chicken with a luscious, buttery Parmesan and garlic ranch crust that bubbles and browns to perfection under the broiler. Trust me, you’re going to love this. It’s savory, creamy, and crunchy all at once—a perfect storm of texture and taste.

Behind the Recipe

I first stumbled upon this magical combination during a family road trip. We stopped at a LongHorn Steakhouse on a whim, and that Parmesan Crusted Chicken changed everything. It wasn’t just the flavor—it was the comforting richness, the crisp top layer, and how it made something simple feel like a treat. After that meal, I knew I had to bring that joy back to my own kitchen. This recipe is my homage to that dish—nostalgic, comforting, and just a little indulgent.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

While LongHorn Steakhouse is known for its bold, Western-inspired flavors, this particular dish cleverly bridges steakhouse heartiness with Italian comfort. Parmesan crusting is a technique rooted in classic Italian cooking, where cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano are used not just for seasoning but for creating texture and body. Over the years, American restaurants have embraced this method, elevating simple proteins into something sensational. This recipe is a delicious testament to that fusion.

Why You’ll Love LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This dish is one of those reliable go-to recipes that always delivers comfort and flavor. Here’s why it’s so lovable:

Versatile: Serve it with mashed potatoes, over pasta, or on a sandwich—this chicken works in so many ways.

Budget-Friendly: A handful of common kitchen staples come together to make a restaurant-quality meal without the cost.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and straightforward steps, dinner is on the table in under an hour.

Customizable: You can adjust the level of crispiness, cheese blend, or even add herbs to tailor it to your tastes.

Crowd-Pleasing: Cheesy, crispy, creamy—what’s not to love? This dish gets rave reviews every time.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the crust and even marinate the chicken earlier in the day for an easy finish later.

Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully and makes a great next-day wrap or salad topper.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To really nail this dish and capture that steakhouse magic at home, here are a few tips from my kitchen to yours:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Even just 30 minutes in a simple garlic-herb marinade will deepen the flavor.
2. Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded Parmesan often has anti-caking agents—freshly grated melts and crisps better.
3. Don’t Skip the Broiler: That final broil gives the crust its signature golden, bubbly top.
4. Layer Smart: Spread the ranch-parmesan mix evenly before topping with breadcrumbs and cheese for that dreamy crust.
5. Let it Rest: Like steak, the chicken needs a couple minutes post-cooking for juices to settle.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Cooking this recipe is straightforward, but having the right tools will make it even smoother.

Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin: For pounding chicken evenly, ensuring consistent cooking.

Mixing Bowls: One for your cheese mixture, another for breadcrumb topping.

Oven-Safe Skillet or Baking Dish: To broil the chicken without transferring to another pan.

Tongs or Spatula: For flipping and moving chicken without losing any crust.

Meat Thermometer: Ensures your chicken is safely cooked to 165°F.

Ingredients in LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This dish is all about balance—savory, creamy, and crispy flavors coming together in harmony. Here’s everything you’ll need:

1. Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless (about 6 ounces each), pounded to even thickness for even cooking.
2. Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing and keeping the chicken moist.
3. Salt: 1 teaspoon, to season the chicken.
4. Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, for a little kick.
5. Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, for that deep savory backbone.
6. Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup, forms the base of the crust and helps it adhere.
7. Ranch Dressing: 1/4 cup, adds tangy creaminess to the topping.
8. Shredded Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated for best texture and flavor.
9. Shredded Provolone Cheese: 1 cup, melts beautifully into a gooey top.
10. Italian-Style Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup, adds the perfect crunch.
11. Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted to mix with breadcrumbs for toasting.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re working with what’s on hand, here are a few simple swaps:

Chicken Breasts: Chicken thighs or tenders.

Ranch Dressing: Greek yogurt mixed with garlic and herbs.

Provolone Cheese: Mozzarella or Fontina.

Italian Breadcrumbs: Crushed Ritz crackers or panko with herbs.

Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt or sour cream.

Ingredient Spotlight

Parmesan Cheese: A hard, aged cheese with a nutty, salty depth that becomes magical when melted and browned.

Ranch Dressing: Creamy, herby, and tangy—it helps bind the crust and adds irresistible flavor.

Instructions for Making LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Alright, let’s get to the fun part—cooking! Here’s how to bring this cheesy delight to life in your kitchen:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F. If using a broiler, ensure it’s ready for use after baking.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ranch dressing, and shredded Parmesan. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and shredded provolone.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to a baking dish if needed. Spread Parmesan mixture over each chicken breast. Top generously with breadcrumb-cheese blend.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Bake in the oven for 10–12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Then broil for 2–3 minutes until topping is golden and bubbly.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle fresh parsley if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Plate with a side of mashed potatoes or a crisp salad. Take a bite—and savor that cheesy, garlicky crunch!

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The magic here is in the layers. The chicken stays juicy and tender thanks to the mayonnaise base, while the blend of Parmesan and provolone creates a gooey yet crisp topping. The buttered breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch, contrasting with the creamy ranch and soft chicken below. It’s all about that perfect bite.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Get the most out of every step with these pointers:

• Pound the chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
• Use a wire rack when baking for a crispier bottom.
• Add a pinch of paprika for color and subtle warmth.
• Let cheese come to room temperature for easier mixing.

What to Avoid

Don’t let small mistakes sabotage your dish. Watch out for:

• Skipping the broiler: It’s what gives that golden finish.
• Overcooking the chicken: Use a thermometer to avoid dryness.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: It won’t melt as well or taste as fresh.
• Forgetting to rest the chicken: It helps lock in juices.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 580

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can easily prep the crust mix and even marinate the chicken earlier in the day. Store cooked leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 300°F until heated through. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crust crispy.

How to Serve LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This chicken is delicious on its own but also shines with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted asparagus or broccoli
• A buttery roll or slice of crusty bread
• A chilled Caesar or garden salad

Creative Leftover Transformations

Transform leftovers into something new and exciting:

• Slice over a Caesar wrap
• Dice into a cheesy quesadilla
• Chop and toss with pasta and Alfredo sauce
• Serve cold over a hearty green salad

Additional Tips

• For extra crisp, use a quick pan-sear before baking.
• Double the crust if you’re a cheese lover—no judgment here.
• Want extra tang? Add a touch of Dijon to the Parmesan mix.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation makes all the difference. Serve on a warm white plate, garnish with chopped parsley, and add a lemon wedge on the side for brightness. Let that golden crust be the star!

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the crust.
• Herb Lover’s Version: Mix in fresh thyme and basil with the cheese.
• Garlic Overload: Add roasted garlic to the mayo-ranch blend.
• Lemon Twist: Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
• BBQ Fusion: Brush with BBQ sauce before adding crust for a smoky note.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?

A1: Yes, just make sure to fully thaw it and pat it dry before cooking.

Q2: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A2: Not as written, but you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Q3: Can I grill the chicken instead?

A3: Yes! Grill first, then top and broil for the crust.

Q4: Can I freeze this?

A4: It’s best fresh, but you can freeze cooked portions and reheat in the oven.

Q5: What kind of Parmesan is best?

A5: Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano gives the richest flavor.

Q6: How spicy is it?

A6: Not spicy at all unless you add heat with optional seasonings.

Q7: Can I make it dairy-free?

A7: It’s a dairy-rich dish, but you could experiment with vegan cheese and mayo.

Q8: Will kids like this?

A8: Absolutely! It’s cheesy and crispy—kid-friendly in every way.

Q9: What wine pairs well?

A9: Try a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for balance.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?

A10: Yes, just make sure not to overcrowd the baking dish.

Conclusion

This LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken brings that unforgettable steakhouse flavor straight to your kitchen, all without a reservation. It’s crispy, creamy, cheesy, and absolutely crave-worthy. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this one’s a total game-changer. Try it once, and it just might become your signature dish.

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