Craving that incredible Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken? You’re in the right place! This recipe brings the iconic restaurant-quality flavor right into your kitchen. We’ve cracked the code to replicate its deliciousness with simple, easy-to-follow steps. Get ready to create a flavorful, tender chicken dish that everyone will adore.
Why You’ll Love This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken copycat recipe is a family favorite for many great reasons. You’ll achieve that irresistible restaurant taste without leaving home. Our simple, easy-to-follow steps ensure success for even beginner cooks. It’s a budget-friendly alternative to dining out, saving you money. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Plus, its cheesy, savory profile makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any meal.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your own amazing Longhorn-style Parmesan chicken at home. This recipe focuses on accessible items for a delicious, easy meal.
For the Chicken and Marinade
- 2 large Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, or 4 chicken cutlets (thighs are also fine to use)
- ¼ cup Ranch dressing
- ¼ cup Italian dressing
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 tsp Dried basil
- 1 tsp Black pepper
For the Parmesan Topping
- 2.5 oz Shredded Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup Ranch dressing
For the Breadcrumb Mixture
- 1 cup Italian style Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp Unsalted butter, melted
For Cooking
- 1 tsp Avocado oil
- 1 tbsp Unsalted butter
- 4 Provolone cheese slices
- 2 Mozzarella cheese slices
Notes & Substitutions
Feel free to customize your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken! You can use chicken thighs or tenders for a different texture. For the dressing, try a homemade ranch or Italian if you prefer. Experiment with other cheeses like Asiago or sharp cheddar to change the flavor profile. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle kick.
Equipment
You won’t need many specialized tools for this recipe, making it perfect for any home kitchen.
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Large mixing bowls (2-3)
- Ziploc bag (gallon-size)
- Large skillet (oven-safe)
- Meat thermometer
- Baking sheet (optional, for broiling if your skillet isn’t oven-safe)
Instructions
Creating this copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is straightforward with our step-by-step guide. Follow these instructions for a perfectly cooked, flavorful dish every time.
- Prepare Chicken: If using large chicken breasts, slice them horizontally into two thinner fillets. This ensures more even cooking. Alternatively, use four pre-cut chicken cutlets or boneless, skinless chicken thighs as suggested.
- Make Marinade: In a large bowl or gallon-sized Ziploc bag, combine ¼ cup ranch dressing, ¼ cup Italian dressing, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the prepared chicken pieces to the marinade mixture. Make sure all surfaces of the chicken are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, you can marinate the chicken overnight.
- Prepare Parmesan Topping: In a small mixing bowl, combine the 2.5 ounces of shredded Parmesan cheese with ½ cup of ranch dressing. Mix until well combined and set this topping mixture aside. This will form a delicious, creamy layer.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In another separate bowl, combine 1 cup of Italian style Panko breadcrumbs, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Stir thoroughly until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the butter and cheese. Set this mixture aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 teaspoon of avocado oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has developed a beautiful golden-brown crust. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. While the chicken cooks, preheat your oven to a low broil setting.
The USDA recommends cooking all poultry, including chicken, to a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C) to ensure food safety.
- Broil First Layer: Once the chicken is cooked, leave it in the oven-safe skillet. Top each chicken piece with one slice of provolone cheese and half a slice of mozzarella cheese. Then, evenly spread the prepared Parmesan-ranch mixture over the top of the cheeses. Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated broiler. Broil for approximately 3-5 minutes, watching closely, until the cheeses are melted and bubbly, and the Parmesan mixture is lightly golden.
- Broil Second Layer: Remove the skillet from the broiler. Evenly sprinkle the prepared breadcrumb topping over the melted cheese and Parmesan-ranch layer on each chicken piece. Return the skillet to the broiler for another 2-3 minutes. Continue to watch carefully until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and toasted, and the entire topping is bubbly and heated through. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Mastering this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is easy with a few expert tips.
- Marinating: For the best flavor, aim to marinate your chicken for at least one hour, or even better, overnight. This allows the dressings and spices to really penetrate the meat.
- Chicken Thickness: Pounding your chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness ensures uniform cooking. Thicker pieces might cook unevenly or dry out.
- Perfect Sear: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook chicken in batches if necessary to achieve a beautiful, crispy, golden-brown crust on each piece. A good sear locks in moisture and adds flavor.
- Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This prevents undercooking and ensures food safety.
- Breading Adherence: For the breadcrumb topping, gently press the mixture onto the cheese layer. This helps it adhere better and creates a more even crust.
- Broiling Watch: Broilers can vary in intensity. Keep a very close eye on the chicken while broiling to prevent the cheese and breadcrumbs from burning. It can go from golden to burnt quickly.
- Oven vs. Air Fryer: If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the seared chicken to a baking sheet before broiling. For extra crispness on the breading, you can finish it in an air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes instead of broiling, after adding all toppings.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
Elevate your Longhorn-style Parmesan chicken with these delicious pairings and simple twists.
Classic Sides
- Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy au gratin potatoes make a comforting pairing.
- Steamed broccoli or green beans provide a fresh, healthy contrast.
- Cheesy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra deliciousness.
Other Sides
- Roasted asparagus offers an elegant and simple vegetable option.
- A light pasta primavera or a side of buttered noodles complement the chicken beautifully.
- Rice pilaf adds a satisfying grain component to the meal.
- A simple garden salad with a vinaigrette dressing cuts through the richness.
Protein Variations
- Pork cutlets can be substituted for chicken, following the same preparation steps.
- Thick white fish fillets, like cod or halibut, can also work, but adjust cooking times.
Flavor Twists
- Add a touch of spicy ranch dressing to the marinade or Parmesan topping for a kick.
- Experiment with herb-crusted variations by adding extra dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the breadcrumbs.
Sauce Pairings
- Serve with a light Alfredo sauce for an extra creamy dish.
- A side of warm marinara sauce offers a classic Italian flavor.
- A simple lemon butter sauce can brighten the rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Proper storage and reheating ensure your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken stays delicious.
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in an airtight, freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: For the best crispness, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-8 minutes, until heated through.
- Microwave: You can microwave for quick reheating, but the breading may lose its crisp texture.
Nutrition Information
Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate only. Values can vary significantly based on exact ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods. This recipe yields four servings.
| Component | Amount (per serving, estimated) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650-750 |
| Protein | 50-60g |
| Fat | 35-45g |
| Carbs | 20-25g |
| Sodium | 1000-1200mg |
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle growth, maintenance, and overall bodily function. You can find more details about the health benefits of chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers to common questions about making this delightful Parmesan chicken.
- Can I use different chicken cuts? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or tenders work well. Adjust cooking times as needed for thickness.
- How long should I marinate the chicken? Marinate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor penetration, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Can I bake this instead of pan-frying? Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, then add toppings and broil as directed.
- What sides pair well with this dish? Garlic mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, a simple side salad, or rice pilaf are all excellent choices.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? No, the Panko breadcrumbs contain gluten. You can substitute with gluten-free Panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? You can marinate the chicken a day in advance. Prepare the Parmesan topping and breadcrumb mixture just before cooking for best results.
Conclusion
Bringing the magic of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken to your table is now wonderfully simple. This copycat recipe delivers exceptional flavor with ease, proving that restaurant-quality meals are achievable at home. Enjoy tender, juicy chicken topped with gooey cheese and a crispy, savory crust. We hope you and your family love this delicious, beginner-friendly dish. Try it tonight and share your experience; we can’t wait to hear how your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken turns out!
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken: A Copycat Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut chicken breasts into fillets or use pre-cut cutlets.
- Combine 1/4 cup ranch dressing, Italian dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, and black pepper in a bowl; marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- Mix 2.5 oz shredded Parmesan cheese with 1/2 cup ranch dressing in a separate bowl and set aside.
- In another bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, then set this topping aside.
- Heat avocado oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken until fully cooked and browned, preheating the oven to low broil during this step.
- Top each cooked chicken piece with provolone and mozzarella slices, then evenly spread the prepared Parmesan mixture over the cheese; broil for about five minutes.
- Finish by adding the breadcrumb topping and broiling for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, until all cheeses are melted and the breadcrumbs are golden and toasty.