- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Rest Time: 5 minutes
Are you craving that signature Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken but want to skip the trip to the restaurant? You’re in luck! This recipe gives you everything you love about Longhorn’s famous dish, right in the comfort of your kitchen. It’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor – and the best part? You can make it in just four simple steps.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to prepare this mouthwatering dish using easy-to-follow instructions. Plus, we’ll share tips, serving suggestions, and answer your most pressing questions. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why this dish deserves a spot in your regular rotation:
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Recreate the beloved Longhorn dish without stepping out.
- Easy & Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
- Budget-Friendly: Save money by making it yourself.
- Flavor Explosion: Juicy chicken, savory Parmesan, and a crunchy topping – pure bliss!
Ingredients for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this amazing dish. The ingredients are simple, and you likely have most of them in your kitchen already.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) | 4 pieces |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Garlic butter | 4 tbsp |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1/2 cup |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Ranch dressing | 1/4 cup |
How to Make Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken in 4 Simple Steps
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Pound the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch thick). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
- Season Well: Sprinkle both sides of each chicken breast with salt and black pepper. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of garlic butter over medium heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F/74°C).
- Set Aside: Once cooked, remove the chicken and place it on a baking sheet lined with foil.
Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan Crust
- Mix the Topping: In a bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, shredded cheddar, and panko breadcrumbs.
- Add Garlic Butter: Melt 2 tablespoons of garlic butter and mix it into the cheese and breadcrumb mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Top and Broil
- Add Ranch Dressing: Spread a thin layer of ranch dressing over each cooked chicken breast.
- Apply the Crust: Generously top each piece with the Parmesan crust mixture, pressing it gently so it sticks.
- Broil: Place the chicken under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the crust is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
How to Serve Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to create a balanced and satisfying meal:
- Veggies: Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or sauteed green beans.
- Pasta: Serve with creamy Alfredo pasta or garlic butter noodles.
- Salads: A fresh Caesar salad or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
- Carbs: Garlic mashed potatoes, wild rice, or oven-roasted potatoes.
Pro Tip: Drizzle extra garlic butter over the chicken before serving for an added burst of flavor!
Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
To ensure your dish turns out as good (or even better) than the restaurant version, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) but no higher.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts and browns better than pre-shredded versions.
- Broil with Care: Stay close to the oven while broiling to avoid burning the crust.
- Even Thickness: Pounding the chicken to a uniform thickness ensures even cooking.
FAQs About Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
What Makes Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Special?
The combination of juicy chicken, rich garlic butter, creamy ranch, and a crispy Parmesan topping creates layers of flavor and texture that are truly irresistible.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Absolutely! While Parmesan and cheddar are the classic combination, you can experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or Swiss for a different twist.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain the crust’s crunchiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and prepare the crust mixture ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, then broil the chicken with the topping right before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat This Chicken?
To keep the crust crispy, avoid the microwave. Instead, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Conclusion: Bring Restaurant Flavor to Your Table
Now you know how to make an irresistible Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken in just four simple steps! This recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home without the hassle or expense of dining out. Try it out and surprise your family with this cheesy, crunchy, and utterly satisfying meal.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments! We’d love to hear your thoughts and see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who love a good homemade meal.
Explore Our Delicious Recipe Categories
Craving more mouthwatering meals? Check out these flavorful recipe categories for every taste and occasion:
- Chicken: Explore a world of flavors with our chicken recipes. From grilled delights to comforting one-pot meals, discover versatile dishes for every occasion.
- Beef: Savor the richness of beef in hearty stews, juicy roasts, and quick recipes. Whether grilling or slow-cooking, find your favorite way to enjoy beef.
- Seafood: Dive into fresh and flavorful seafood dishes. From grilled fish to creamy stews, these recipes bring the ocean’s best to your table.
- Meaty Pasta: Perfect for busy days, these hearty pasta dishes are ready in no time. Explore quick recipes featuring beef, chicken, or seafood — all easy to make and ready in under 30 minutes.
Helpful Resources on Storage and Nutrition
Here are some helpful resources for health advice and food storage.
- Food Storage and Freezing Tips: The USDA Food Safety Guide offers detailed tips. Epicurious also has freezing advice to prevent food waste.
- Nutrition Information: MyFitnessPal and CalorieKing offer easy ways to check calorie counts.
- Health and Wellness Guides: Balanced indulgence is key. The Mayo Clinic offers guides on healthy eating. Harvard Health also has balanced nutrition tips.