LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

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LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

If you’ve ever dined at LongHorn Steakhouse, chances are you’ve come across their famous Parmesan Crusted Chicken—a dish that has developed a loyal following for its rich, savory flavors and indulgent crust. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy topping and a golden Parmesan crust that’s baked to perfection. It’s comfort food elevated to steakhouse quality, and the best part is—you can make it right at home.

This copycat recipe captures all the elements that make the restaurant version so popular, from the seasoned chicken base to the luscious Parmesan-Ranch sauce and the crispy, cheesy crust. Whether you’re recreating it for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or just because you’re craving that restaurant experience at home, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why This Recipe is So Popular

The appeal of LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken lies in its balance of textures and flavors. Here’s why it’s such a standout dish:

  • Tender Chicken – Perfectly seasoned and cooked until juicy.
  • Creamy Topping – A blend of ranch dressing, Parmesan, and melted cheese adds richness.
  • Crispy Crust – A golden, crunchy topping made of Parmesan and breadcrumbs creates contrast.
  • Restaurant-Quality at Home – A dish that feels fancy without complicated steps.
  • Family Favorite – Loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish comes together with everyday ingredients you may already have in your kitchen.

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Parmesan Topping:

  • ½ cup ranch dressing (or creamy Caesar as an alternative)
  • ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little kick)
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Parmesan Crust:

  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season them with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. This locks in the juices and adds flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Topping

In a bowl, combine ranch dressing, shredded Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. This mixture forms the base layer of indulgence for your chicken.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Spread a generous spoonful of the creamy Parmesan mixture over each piece. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until the chicken is nearly cooked through (internal temp should be about 160°F/71°C).

Step 4: Add the Parmesan Crust

While the chicken is baking, prepare the crust by mixing panko breadcrumbs, shredded Parmesan, melted butter, and parsley in a small bowl. Remove the chicken from the oven, sprinkle the crust mixture evenly on top, and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until the crust is golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy restaurant-quality Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t skip searing – It creates flavor and prevents the chicken from drying out.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan – It melts and browns better than pre-shredded cheese.
  • For extra crunch – Broil the chicken for the last 1–2 minutes.
  • Adjust the sauce – Ranch dressing gives it tang, but Caesar dressing adds a deeper flavor.
  • Check internal temp – Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.

What to Serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This dish is hearty and flavorful, so pair it with sides that balance its richness. Some great options include:

  • Garlic mashed potatoes – A classic pairing.
  • Steamed broccoli or asparagus – Adds freshness to the plate.
  • Buttered corn or roasted carrots – For a touch of sweetness.
  • Caesar salad – Keeps with the steakhouse theme.
  • Rice pilaf or wild rice – Light and fluffy to complement the bold flavors.

Variations and Add-Ins

One of the best parts of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Try these variations to make it your own:

  • Spicy Parmesan Chicken – Add cayenne pepper to the crust for heat.
  • Italian Style – Swap ranch for Alfredo sauce and add fresh basil.
  • Lighter Version – Use Greek yogurt mixed with Parmesan for the creamy layer.
  • Herb Crust – Mix fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley into the breadcrumb topping.
  • Cheese Lover’s – Add provolone or sharp cheddar for more cheesy depth.

Storing and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, which makes the crust soggy.

Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)

  • Calories: 430
  • Protein: 37g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 690mg

(Nutritional values vary based on portion sizes and ingredients used.)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This LongHorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is everything you love about dining out—brought straight to your kitchen. The tender chicken, creamy cheese layer, and crunchy golden crust deliver layers of flavor and texture that make each bite irresistible.

It’s a crowd-pleaser, easy enough for weeknights, yet impressive enough for guests. Once you try this homemade version, you might even prefer it to the restaurant’s.

Final Thoughts

Recreating restaurant favorites at home is not only cost-effective but also allows you to customize flavors to your liking. This Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect example—indulgent, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. Pair it with classic steakhouse sides, and you’ve got yourself a complete meal that rivals anything you’d order at LongHorn.

Next time you’re craving a cheesy, crispy, golden chicken dish, give this recipe a try—you’ll see why it’s one of the most beloved steakhouse entrees.

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