If you have ever craved that irresistible combination of juicy chicken topped with a golden, cheesy crust, then the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort meal. This dish captures the essence of classic American flavors with tender chicken breasts baked to perfection and smothered in a luscious blend of Parmesan, provolone, and ranch dressing, topped off with a crunchy panko crust. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests. Let me take you through why this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe is so beloved and how it can easily become a staple in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, accessible ingredients, each contributing essential layers of flavor and texture. From the smoky paprika that adds a subtle warmth to the creamy ranch that ties the cheese topping together, every component plays a starring role.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (4, about 6 ounces each): Ensures tender, juicy bites that are easy to eat and cook evenly.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken succulent during baking.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all natural flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a mild kick for depth.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Infuses a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Offers savory richness throughout.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Balances with a gentle sweetness and fragrant aroma.
- Shredded Parmesan cheese (¾ cup): Delivers sharp, salty notes critical for the cheesy crust.
- Shredded provolone cheese (1 cup): Contributes a melty, creamy texture for indulgence.
- Ranch dressing (¼ cup): Adds tang and moisture, binding the topping beautifully.
- Melted unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Enriches the crust and helps it crisp up perfectly.
- Panko breadcrumbs (½ cup): Provides that coveted crunch contrasted against the tender chicken.
- Dried Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Brings herbal warmth and Italian flair to the topping.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, bright finish to this hearty dish.
How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and giving your baking dish a light grease to prevent sticking. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about three-quarters of an inch; this step is crucial for consistent cooking so every bite remains juicy. Next, combine your salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl to create a flavorful seasoning blend. Rub the chicken all over with olive oil before seasoning liberally with your spice mixture. Place the chicken breasts neatly in the baking dish, ready for the oven.
Step 2: Initial Baking
Bake the seasoned chicken for about 18 to 22 minutes. The goal here is to cook the chicken through, aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F. This ensures the chicken is cooked but still tender and juicy, laying the perfect foundation for the cheesy topping.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Topping
While your chicken is baking, mix together the shredded Parmesan and provolone cheeses, ranch dressing, melted butter, panko breadcrumbs, and dried Italian seasoning. This mixture is what gives the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe its signature, irresistible crust.
Step 4: Add Topping and Finish Baking
Remove the chicken from the oven and spoon your cheesy mixture evenly over each breast. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 6 to 8 minutes. Look for a golden, bubbly crust that signals the topping is perfectly cooked. For that authentic restaurant-like finish, feel free to broil the chicken for 1 to 2 minutes at the very end to deepen the crust color and texture.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Let the chicken rest for five minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and a touch of freshness before serving.
How to Serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds vibrant color but also brightens the rich, cheesy flavors of the chicken. For a little extra zing, a light drizzle of lemon juice or a few red pepper flakes can elevate the dish beautifully without overpowering it.
Side Dishes
This Parmesan chicken pairs wonderfully with classic hearty sides like creamy mashed potatoes or seasoned rice, which soak up every bit of the cheesy sauce. Steamed or roasted broccoli adds both color and a crisp, fresh contrast, making your plate balanced and inviting.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your presentation shine by layering the chicken over a bed of garlic-infused spinach or a colorful quinoa salad to add texture and nutrients. Serving it family-style on a large platter with garnished lemon wedges invites everyone to dig in and share the joy of this crowd-pleasing meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe should be cooled completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. Stored this way, it will keep fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to make this meal ahead of time for busy days, freezing is a great option. Wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. Your chicken can maintain quality for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw thoroughly in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F until heated through, typically about 15 to 20 minutes. Cover loosely with foil to keep the chicken moist, and remove the foil during the last few minutes for a crisp topping. Microwaving is faster but might soften the crispy crust.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and juiciness. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs generally take a bit longer to cook through.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cheeses?
Yes! You can substitute with dairy-free Parmesan-style and mozzarella cheeses available at many grocery stores. While the flavor may vary a bit, the texture and richness you want in the crust can still be achieved.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Simply swap the regular panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
What if I don’t have ranch dressing on hand?
You can substitute ranch with a simple mixture of mayonnaise, garlic powder, dried dill, and a splash of lemon juice. This homemade version will still provide that creamy tang to hold the cheesy topping together.
How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer; the chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F before adding the topping. After the topping is baked, the residual heat will bring it up to a safe eating temperature without drying it out.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe that makes it a standout in any home cook’s repertoire. Combining simple ingredients with straightforward steps results in a dish that feels both special and approachable. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe promises to deliver delicious, cheesy perfection every single time. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with the melt-in-your-mouth goodness that makes it a lasting favorite!
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Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is a deliciously cheesy baked chicken recipe featuring boneless skinless chicken breasts coated with a savory blend of spices and topped with a rich Parmesan and provolone cheese mixture. This easy-to-make American main course is perfect for a comforting dinner with a crispy, golden crust and juicy interior.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Cheesy Topping
- ¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- ¼ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Pound the chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even ¾-inch thickness to ensure uniform cooking and tender texture.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub olive oil over the chicken breasts, then season evenly on all sides with the spice mixture.
- Bake the chicken: Arrange seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, ensuring the chicken is nearly cooked through.
- Prepare the cheesy topping: While chicken bakes, combine Parmesan cheese, provolone cheese, ranch dressing, melted butter, panko breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning in a bowl to create a thick, cheesy topping mixture.
- Add topping and finish baking: Remove chicken from oven, evenly spoon the cheesy topping over each breast, then return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 6 to 8 minutes until the topping is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and garnish: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes post-baking to retain juiciness. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a deeper browned crust similar to the restaurant, broil the chicken for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or seasoned rice to complete the Longhorn-style meal.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko.
