My version of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken came after countless experiments to recreate that perfect restaurant taste at home. The moment I nailed that crispy Parmesan crust and creamy cheese layer my family declared it better than the original. Now it's our go to recipe for turning an ordinary weeknight into something special.
Restaurant Magic at Home
What makes this dish so incredible is how those layers of flavor come together. That perfectly seasoned chicken topped with melty cheese and that crunchy garlic Parmesan crust creates pure comfort food magic. My guests always ask for seconds and the recipe.
What You'll Need
- Chicken Breast: 4 boneless, skinless pieces, pounded to ½-inch thickness for even cooking.
- Marinade: Olive oil, Italian dressing, or a mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated for maximum flavor.
- Provolone Cheese: 4 slices, melted for a creamy topping.
- Ranch Dressing: ⅓ cup, to add a tangy layer to the crust.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: ½ cup, for a golden, crispy finish.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted to bind the breadcrumbs.
- Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon, for added flavor in the crust.
Let's Cook Together
- Get That Chicken Ready
- Pound those breasts nice and even then let them soak up all that marinade goodness.
- Give It a Good Sear
- Get your pan nice and hot to create that beautiful golden crust on the chicken.
- Make It Cheesy
- Mix up that incredible Parmesan provolone mixture it gets so creamy and delicious.
- Add the Crunch
- That buttery breadcrumb topping is what makes this dish extra special.
- Final Touch
- Let it broil just until golden watch it closely that's when the magic happens.
My Best Tips
Always grate your Parmesan fresh it makes such a difference in flavor. Take your time pounding the chicken we want it nice and even. Keep an eye on that broiler those last few minutes are crucial for getting that perfect golden crust.
Keep It Fresh
If you're lucky enough to have leftovers they'll keep beautifully in the fridge. Just warm them up in the oven to keep that crust crispy. You can even prep the chicken ahead and add the toppings just before cooking.
Perfect Partners
We love serving this with creamy mashed potatoes the sauce soaks right in. Some roasted green beans or Brussels sprouts on the side make it a complete meal. Don't forget some warm rolls to soak up every last bit of that cheesy goodness.
Pure Comfort
This chicken dish has become our favorite way to bring restaurant quality comfort food to our table. It's amazing how a few simple ingredients can create something so incredibly delicious. The smiles around the table make all the effort worthwhile.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different cheese?
Yes, Swiss, Mozzarella, or Munster can substitute for provolone. Quality matters - try Boars Head or Prima Della brands.
- What's a quicker marinade option?
Italian salad dressing makes a great quick marinade substitute. Use about 1 cup for the recipe.
- Can I make this keto-friendly?
Yes, substitute crushed pork rinds for the panko breadcrumbs for a keto version.
- How else can I cook the chicken?
Besides skillet, you can bake at 425°F for 15-18 minutes or grill 4-7 minutes per side over medium-high heat.
- Can I prepare this ahead?
You can marinate the chicken overnight and prepare the crust mixture just before cooking.
Some more ideas
A comprehensive guide to recreating the famous Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home, with multiple cooking methods and flexible ingredient options.