Are you craving that delicious, juicy Parmesan-crusted chicken from Longhorn Steakhouse but don't feel like dining out? Well, you're in luck! This guide will help you replicate that famous Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen. From a detailed list of ingredients to expert cooking tips, you'll have everything you need to prepare this mouthwatering dish. By the time you're finished reading, you'll be ready to cook this restaurant-quality meal like a pro. Stick around until the end to learn all the insider tips and tricks to make your dish stand out. Let’s dive in!
What is Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken?
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a succulent, pan-seared or grilled chicken breast topped with a creamy, savory Parmesan and ranch dressing mixture, finished off with a crispy, golden breadcrumb topping. The chicken is incredibly tender and juicy, while the topping adds just the right amount of crunch and cheesy richness. This dish is perfect for a special dinner but simple enough to make for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients List for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Here are the core ingredients you will need to recreate this iconic dish:
- Chicken Breasts: You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Opt for high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese: The star ingredient! Freshly grated Parmesan works best for texture and flavor.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko crumbs give the topping its signature crunch. If you can’t find Panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, though they’ll be less crispy.
- Ranch Dressing: The creamy ranch dressing brings a tangy, savory base that complements the Parmesan cheese.
- Butter: A bit of melted butter helps crisp up the breadcrumb topping.
- Garlic Powder: For extra flavor and depth in the crust.
- Olive Oil: Used for cooking the chicken to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning the chicken breasts.
Additional Ingredients List for the Sauce and Garnish
In addition to the primary ingredients, there are a few extra items you’ll need to complete the dish:
- Lemon Juice: Adds a burst of freshness that balances out the richness of the chicken and topping.
- Fresh Parsley: This herb is used as a garnish to add a touch of color and brightness to the dish.
- Paprika: A pinch of paprika can be added to the breadcrumb mix for a bit of smokiness and color.
Substitutions and Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
If you're missing an ingredient or want to make some adjustments, here are some substitutions that work well without compromising the overall taste of the dish:
- Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts: If you prefer darker meat or find it to be more flavorful, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Just note that thighs take a bit longer to cook.
- Greek Yogurt Instead of Ranch Dressing: For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt mixed with herbs and garlic in place of ranch dressing. It gives a creamy texture with fewer calories.
- Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: If you’re avoiding gluten, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes for the topping.
- Cheddar or Mozzarella Instead of Parmesan: If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, cheddar or mozzarella can be substituted for a slightly different flavor profile.
Variations
You can tweak this dish to make it your own by adding your favorite flavors:
- Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Add a bit of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Crusted Chicken: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil into the Parmesan and breadcrumb topping for an herby twist.
- Bacon-Parmesan Chicken: Add crumbled cooked bacon on top of the chicken before adding the Parmesan topping for a smoky, savory flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. If the chicken breasts are thick, consider butterflying them or pounding them to an even thickness of about ¾ inch. This ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. For extra flavor, you can also sprinkle garlic powder or Italian seasoning over the chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. If you prefer to grill the chicken, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook for about the same amount of time, flipping halfway through.
Step 4: Make the Parmesan Topping
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the Parmesan topping. In a small bowl, combine the shredded Parmesan, Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and has a crumbly texture.
Step 5: Add Ranch Dressing and Parmesan Crust
Once the chicken breasts are cooked, remove them from the heat and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread a generous amount of ranch dressing on top of each chicken breast, then press the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture over the top.
Step 6: Broil the Chicken
Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. Place the chicken breasts under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on the chicken to ensure the topping doesn't burn.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two. Sprinkle fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice over the top before serving for a burst of freshness.
How to Cook Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
To summarize the process:
- Prep Chicken: Trim and season the chicken breasts.
- Cook Chicken: Pan-sear or grill the chicken until fully cooked.
- Prepare Topping: Mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and melted butter.
- Top Chicken: Spread ranch dressing over the chicken, then add the Parmesan mixture.
- Broil: Broil the chicken for a crispy, golden topping.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and lemon juice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooking can make the chicken dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Skipping the Broil: Broiling gives the dish its signature crispy topping. Don’t skip this step!
- Not Pounding the Chicken: If the chicken breasts are too thick, they may cook unevenly. Pounding them to an even thickness ensures consistent results.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a superior flavor. Pre-grated cheese may not achieve the same creamy texture.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic option to balance the richness of the chicken.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make a healthy and colorful side.
- Caesar Salad: The cool crunch of Caesar salad complements the warm, cheesy chicken perfectly.
Presentation Ideas for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
To elevate the presentation of this dish, consider the following tips:
- Plate with a Lemon Wedge: A wedge of lemon on the side adds color and can be squeezed over the chicken for extra brightness.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds vibrant color and a touch of freshness.
- Serve on a Wooden Board: For a rustic, steakhouse-style presentation, serve the chicken on a wooden board with sides arranged around it.
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken and topping ahead of time. Store the topping separately and add just before broiling.
- Double the Recipe: This dish is great for meal prep! Double the recipe and store leftovers for quick lunches.
- Add a Side Sauce: A simple garlic butter sauce or marinara on the side can complement the Parmesan flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes! You can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, add the Parmesan topping and broil it.
2. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the topping crispy.
3. Can I freeze Parmesan chicken? While the chicken can be frozen, the topping may lose its crispiness. If freezing, freeze the chicken without the topping and add the topping when reheating.
4. What other cheeses can I use? Mozzarella, cheddar, or asiago can work as substitutes for Parmesan, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Conclusion
Making Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Chicken at home is not only achievable but can become a staple recipe in your meal rotation. With crispy, cheesy goodness on top of juicy, perfectly cooked chicken, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, with options to customize and tips to avoid common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this dish. Now that you have the recipe and all the insider tips, it's time to get cooking. Your family or guests will be impressed with this restaurant-quality meal made right in your kitchen!
Enjoy your homemade Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken!
PrintLonghorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan-crusted chicken recipe brings the restaurant favorite to your kitchen with tender, juicy chicken breasts topped with a crispy Parmesan and garlic crust. Finished with a creamy ranch and cheese layer, this dish delivers bold, rich flavors and a satisfying crunch. Perfect for a special dinner or an easy weeknight treat!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Frying and Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup ranch dressing
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Dredge the chicken in flour, dip into beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat.
- In a small bowl, mix ranch dressing, mayonnaise, and shredded cheese. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the chicken breasts.
- In another bowl, combine grated Parmesan with a bit more panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle this over the cheese layer.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the top is crispy and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- You can use provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar for the cheese layer, depending on your preference.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a side salad for a complete meal.
- To make this dish even crispier, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 860mg
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