Craving the iconic Parmesan-Crusted Chicken from Longhorn Steakhouse but don’t feel like going out? Now you can enjoy this beloved dish right in the comfort of your home! This copycat recipe is just as satisfying and packed with flavor, featuring perfectly seasoned chicken breasts, a creamy, cheesy topping, and a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this recipe will soon become a family favorite.
The combination of Italian salad dressing as a marinade and the blend of Parmesan and Provolone cheeses creates a rich, savory layer on top of tender chicken breasts. Paired with a crispy breadcrumb topping, the result is a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality dish that you’ll love every time.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup Italian salad dressing
For the Parmesan Crust:
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Provolone cheese, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup Ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by placing the chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag. Press out any excess air and seal the bag. Use a meat mallet to gently pound each chicken breast to an even 1/2-inch thickness. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly and tenderly. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Transfer the seasoned chicken breasts to another resealable bag, and pour in the Italian salad dressing. Seal the bag, making sure the chicken is well-coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in—though you can let it marinate for up to 12 hours for an extra burst of flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for 4-5 minutes per side, making sure not to move them around in the pan. This helps to develop a golden, flavorful crust. Cook the chicken until fully cooked through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once done, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet or oven-safe dish, and tent with foil to keep it warm.
- Prepare the Parmesan Crust: Preheat your oven’s broiler. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, Provolone cheese, and Ranch dressing. Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture becomes smooth and melted.
- Add the Breadcrumb Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder, salt, and panko breadcrumbs. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture over the cheesy layer on top of each chicken breast.
- Broil the Chicken: Place the chicken under the broiler for 3-4 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and slightly crispy. Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent it from burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Once broiled, remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes—think mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad—and enjoy!
This Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. It’s full of flavor, simple to prepare, and guaranteed to impress your guests or family. Skip the trip to the restaurant and make this delicious copycat dish yourself!
