Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe

There's nothing quite like the irresistible combination of tender grilled chicken and a golden, cheesy crust. This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a perfect balance of savory flavors, rich textures, and a satisfying crunch. It's a restaurant-quality dish that you can easily recreate in your own kitchen!

this Recipe

I first discovered this dish on a special dinner outing, and it instantly became a favorite. The way the creamy ranch-flavored parmesan topping melts into the perfectly seasoned chicken was unforgettable. After a few kitchen experiments, I nailed the recipe—and now, it’s a staple in our weeknight dinner rotation.

Why You'll Love This Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Get ready to fall in love with this easy, flavorful dish that delivers bold taste in every bite.

First, it’s incredibly simple to make. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques—just basic pantry staples and a few minutes of prep time.

It’s also a budget-friendly alternative to dining out. Instead of spending extra at a restaurant, you can make this delicious meal at home for a fraction of the price.

The flavor is out of this world. With a seasoned grilled chicken base, a creamy ranch and parmesan spread, and a crispy, cheesy crust, every bite is packed with richness and depth.

Best of all, it’s versatile. Serve it with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or roasted veggies—this dish pairs beautifully with just about anything.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They’re ideal for grilling and provide a lean, protein-packed base for the cheesy topping. To ensure even cooking, pound them to an even thickness.

The seasoning blend is crucial for that signature flavor. A mix of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper creates the perfect balance of spice and depth.

For the creamy layer, you’ll need ranch dressing, shredded parmesan cheese, and melted butter. This mixture not only adds a tangy, cheesy flavor but also helps the crispy topping adhere to the chicken.

Finally, the signature cheese crust is made with a combination of panko breadcrumbs, shredded white cheddar, and grated parmesan. The panko provides that extra crunch, while the cheeses melt beautifully into a golden topping.

A cast iron skillet or grill pan works best to get that classic seared texture on the chicken before finishing it under the broiler.

How To Make This Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Making this dish at home is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to achieve restaurant-quality results.

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Coat them generously with the spice blend, making sure to cover all sides for maximum flavor.

Next, grill or pan-sear the chicken. Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until beautifully golden and cooked through. If you have a grill, you can also cook them over medium heat for the same amount of time.

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the parmesan-ranch mixture. In a small bowl, combine ranch dressing, melted butter, and shredded parmesan. This will be the creamy layer that holds the crispy topping in place.

Once the chicken is done, spread the parmesan mixture evenly over each piece. Then, mix panko breadcrumbs, white cheddar, and grated parmesan and sprinkle it generously over the top.

Finally, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes until the topping turns golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning—the cheese should be bubbling and slightly toasted.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s so good, you might not!), storing and reheating this dish is simple.

For short-term storage, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To freeze, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

To reheat, warm the chicken in an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This helps maintain the crispiness of the cheese crust better than microwaving.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients!

If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the ranch dressing to cut down on calories while keeping the creaminess.

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.

Switch up the cheese! While white cheddar and parmesan are traditional, gouda or mozzarella work beautifully for a different flavor profile.

If you don’t have panko, use crushed crackers or even cornflakes for a fun twist on the crispy topping.

No grill? No problem! You can bake the seasoned chicken at 375°F for 20-25 minutes before adding the toppings.

With so many ways to customize this dish, you can make it your own and keep it fresh every time you serve it!

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