If you’ve ever dined at Longhorn Steakhouse, you know that their Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is one of the most popular menu items. This dish stands out with its perfectly seasoned, juicy grilled chicken, topped with a crispy, golden Parmesan crust and a rich, creamy cheese layer. The combination of flavors and textures makes it an irresistible favorite!
The good news? You don’t have to visit Longhorn Steakhouse to enjoy this delicious meal. With this easy copycat recipe, you can recreate the same restaurant-quality Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken right in your own kitchen! Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe is a must-try. Follow along as we break down each step to help you achieve the perfect crispy, cheesy, and flavorful chicken at home.
What is Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
The Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken has become a fan-favorite dish, thanks to its irresistible combination of juicy grilled chicken, a creamy cheese topping, and a crispy Parmesan crust. But what makes this dish so special, and why is it a must-try for home cooks? Let’s dive into its origins, popularity, and what sets it apart from other Parmesan chicken recipes.
Origin of the Dish – Inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse
Longhorn Steakhouse, a well-known American casual dining restaurant chain, is famous for its bold flavors and hearty steakhouse dishes. While the restaurant is best known for its steaks, it has also perfected a variety of grilled chicken dishes, with Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe standing out as one of its most iconic menu items.
- This dish was introduced as a savory, non-steak alternative that still offers the indulgence and bold flavors Longhorn Steakhouse is known for.
- Unlike traditional grilled chicken, this dish elevates the flavors with a double-layered topping—a creamy ranch and cheese blend topped with a crispy, buttery Parmesan crust.
- Over time, it became one of the most requested dishes, prompting food lovers to recreate the recipe at home.
Now, with the right techniques and ingredients, you can enjoy Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken in your own kitchen—without the restaurant price tag!
Why It’s Popular – The Perfect Blend of Crispy, Creamy, and Juicy
The popularity of parmesan crusted chicken recipe from longhorn comes from its incredible texture and flavor combination. Here’s why so many people love it:
- Juicy and Flavorful Chicken
- Unlike dry, bland chicken breasts, this dish stays tender and moist, thanks to proper seasoning, marinating (if preferred), and grilling or baking at the right temperature.
- Even without a marinade, the layered toppings keep the chicken juicy while adding a burst of rich flavor.
- Creamy, Cheesy Topping
- A blend of Ranch dressing, Provolone cheese, and Parmesan creates a melty, tangy, and savory topping that adds depth to every bite.
- The Provolone melts smoothly, while the Ranch dressing infuses the dish with a touch of zestiness.
- Golden, Crispy Parmesan Crust
- The final layer—a crispy Panko and Parmesan topping—brings everything together.
- Broiling the chicken at the end creates a golden, crunchy crust that perfectly contrasts the creamy cheese layer underneath.
This unique layering method gives each bite a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it far more exciting than your average grilled chicken dish.
What Makes It Unique Compared to Other Parmesan Chicken Recipes?
There are plenty of Parmesan chicken recipes, but Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken has a signature twist that sets it apart.
🔹 Not Your Traditional “Parmesan Chicken”
- Unlike Chicken Parmesan, which is usually breaded, fried, and served with marinara sauce, this recipe skips the heavy tomato base and focuses on cheese-forward flavors.
- Instead of a full breadcrumb coating, the Parmesan crust is only on top, allowing the chicken to stay juicy while still having a crispy, golden finish.
🔹 Double-Layered Topping
- Most Parmesan chicken recipes use either melted cheese or a breadcrumb topping, but this dish combines both—offering a creamy, cheesy layer beneath a crispy crust.
- The combination of Ranch dressing, Provolone, and Parmesan breadcrumbs creates a restaurant-quality flavor that’s hard to replicate in other dishes.
🔹 A Restaurant-Worthy Grilled Chicken Base
- Instead of deep-frying or pan-frying, the chicken is grilled or baked, keeping it leaner and healthier while still packing in plenty of rich flavors.
- This cooking method allows the natural flavors of the seasoned chicken to shine through, complementing the toppings instead of being overwhelmed by them.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Recipe
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating, optional but recommended for juiciness)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling or baking)
For the Parmesan Crust:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs (or use gluten-free breadcrumbs if preferred)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (or garlic butter for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried Italian herbs (optional for added flavor)
For the Creamy Topping:
- ¼ cup Ranch dressing
- ½ cup shredded Provolone cheese
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Making Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe at home is easier than you think! By following these simple steps, you’ll achieve the same juicy, flavorful chicken with a crispy, cheesy crust that makes this dish a restaurant favorite.
1. Prepare the Chicken – Seasoning, Marinating (Buttermilk Optional), and Grilling/Baking
The foundation of a great Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken starts with properly prepared chicken.
Seasoning & Marinating:
- Begin with boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pound them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.
- If you want extra juicy chicken, marinate it in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours. This step helps tenderize the chicken while infusing it with flavor.
Cooking the Chicken:
You have two cooking options: grilling or baking.
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F). Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest while preparing the toppings.
2. Make the Parmesan Crust – Mixing Parmesan, Panko, Garlic Butter
The crispy, cheesy topping is what makes this dish so special. To get that signature Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken crust, follow these steps:
Ingredients for the Parmesan Crust:
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs (for crispiness)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a rich, cheesy flavor)
- 2 tablespoons melted garlic butter (enhances flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt & black pepper
How to Prepare the Crust:
- In a small bowl, mix together the Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted garlic butter, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir until the mixture is evenly combined and has a crumbly texture.
- Set aside for the final assembly.
This crispy topping will give your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken its famous crunch and cheesy finish.
3. Prepare the Creamy Topping – Combining Ranch, Provolone, Parmesan
The creamy cheese topping is what makes this dish extra indulgent. It’s a blend of melted cheese and tangy ranch dressing, creating a rich, flavorful layer that balances the crispy Parmesan crust.
Ingredients for the Creamy Topping:
- ¼ cup Ranch dressing (adds a creamy, slightly tangy flavor)
- 2 slices of Provolone cheese (melts beautifully over the chicken)
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (enhances the cheesy flavor)
How to Prepare the Topping:
- Place a slice of Provolone cheese over each cooked chicken breast.
- In a small bowl, mix Ranch dressing with shredded Parmesan cheese.
- Spread the Ranch-Parmesan mixture evenly over the Provolone cheese.
This step ensures that the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken has a melty, creamy layer underneath the crispy topping.
4. Assemble and Broil – Layering the Crust, Adding the Topping, Broiling Until Crispy
Now that the chicken, Parmesan crust, and creamy topping are ready, it’s time to put everything together and finish the dish under the broiler for the ultimate crispy, cheesy texture.
Final Assembly Steps:
- Place the cooked chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil.
- Add the creamy topping over the chicken breasts.
- Sprinkle the prepared Parmesan crust generously over the top.
- Preheat your oven’s broiler to high.
- Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!
Once done, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Achieving the perfect parmesan crusted chicken recipe from longhorn at home requires attention to detail. From keeping the chicken juicy to mastering the crispy topping, here’s how to make your dish taste just like (or even better than) the restaurant version.
How to Make the Chicken Extra Juicy (Marinating in Buttermilk)
One of the best-kept secrets to juicy and tender chicken is marinating it in buttermilk before cooking. Buttermilk works as a natural tenderizer, breaking down the proteins in the chicken while keeping it moist and flavorful.
Here’s how to do it:
- In a bowl, mix 1 cup of buttermilk with ½ teaspoon of salt, black pepper, and a dash of garlic powder.
- Submerge the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours (overnight for best results).
- Before cooking, pat the chicken dry to help the seasonings and crust stick better.
This step ensures that your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken remains juicy and tender, even after grilling or baking.
Getting the Perfect Crispy Crust (Using Panko and Broiling Technique)
The crispy, golden crust is what makes this dish stand out! The secret lies in Panko breadcrumbs and the right broiling technique.
- Why Panko Breadcrumbs?
Unlike regular breadcrumbs, Panko has a light, airy texture that creates a crispier and crunchier coating. It helps replicate the restaurant-style Parmesan crust. - How to Achieve the Crispy Crust:
- Mix Panko breadcrumbs with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, melted garlic butter, and a pinch of salt.
- After cooking the chicken, spread the Parmesan-Panko mixture evenly over the top.
- Place the chicken under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!
By using Panko and the broiling method, you’ll get the perfect crispy and cheesy crust that makes Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken so delicious.
Alternative Cheeses if You Don’t Have Provolone
Provolone cheese is a key ingredient in the creamy topping, but if you don’t have it on hand, here are some great substitutes:
- Mozzarella Cheese – Offers a mild, creamy texture similar to Provolone.
- Swiss Cheese – Adds a slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with Parmesan.
- White Cheddar – Provides a sharper taste for those who prefer bolder flavors.
- Monterey Jack – Melts well and has a mild, buttery taste.
If you’re looking for the best substitute, Mozzarella and Swiss cheese work great in combination to mimic the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken flavor and texture.
What to Serve with Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Once you’ve mastered making Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, the next step is choosing the perfect side dishes, salads, and sauces to complete your meal. The rich, cheesy topping and crispy Parmesan crust make this dish incredibly flavorful, so selecting complementary sides and sauces can enhance the dining experience. Here are some of the best pairings to serve alongside this steakhouse-inspired favorite.
Best Side Dishes for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
A great main dish deserves equally delicious sides! Since Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe has a creamy, cheesy, and crispy texture, it pairs well with savory, buttery, and slightly crispy sides. Here are some of the best options:
1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Buttery, smooth, and comforting, mashed potatoes are a classic steakhouse side that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding garlic, Parmesan cheese, or a touch of heavy cream to your mashed potatoes.
- You can also make them healthier by using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or butter.
2. Roasted Vegetables
- A mix of oven-roasted vegetables adds a touch of sweetness and a crisp texture that balances the richness of the dish.
- Great options include:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts with a honey glaze
- Garlic butter green beans
- Caramelized carrots and parsnips
- Tossing the vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Parmesan before roasting enhances the flavor.
3. Buttery Garlic Bread
- If you’re craving something extra indulgent, warm garlic bread is a fantastic side to soak up all the creamy, cheesy goodness from the chicken.
- You can make it even better by:
- Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil
- Topping it with melted mozzarella or Parmesan
- Brushing it with a mix of butter, garlic, and olive oil
Best Salad Pairings for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Since longhorn steakhouse parmesan crusted chicken recipe is rich and creamy, pairing it with a fresh, crisp salad helps balance the flavors and keep the meal from feeling too heavy. Here are two excellent choices:
1. Classic Caesar Salad
- A Caesar salad is a steakhouse staple and a perfect match for this dish. The tangy Caesar dressing, crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and Parmesan shavings complement the cheesy crust beautifully.
- To enhance the flavor, consider:
- Using homemade Caesar dressing for extra freshness
- Adding cherry tomatoes or crispy bacon bits for extra crunch
2. Mixed Greens with Balsamic Dressing
- If you prefer a lighter, more refreshing salad, a simple mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette is a great option.
- The slight sweetness and acidity of balsamic dressing cut through the richness of the chicken, creating a perfectly balanced bite.
- Best ingredients for this salad:
- Baby spinach, arugula, or romaine lettuce
- Sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions
- Goat cheese or feta for a tangy contrast
- Toasted almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture
Best Sauce Suggestions for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
While Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is already flavorful on its own, adding a dipping sauce or drizzle can enhance the taste even further. Here are some excellent sauce pairings:
1. Garlic Butter Sauce
- If you love extra garlic flavor, a garlic butter sauce is a perfect match.
- How to make it:
- Melt butter in a pan and sauté minced garlic until it becomes fragrant.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give it a mild kick of heat.
- Stir in a splash of lemon juice for a fresh burst of flavor.
2. Creamy Ranch Dip
- Since Ranch dressing is already part of the Parmesan topping, serving extra Ranch on the side makes sense.
- For a homemade twist, mix:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh chopped herbs like dill and chives
- Garlic powder and onion powder
- A squeeze of lemon juice for freshness
3. Spicy Honey Mustard
- If you want a bit of sweet and spicy contrast, try a spicy honey mustard sauce.
- How to make it:
- Combine Dijon mustard, honey, and a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar for an extra burst of tanginess.
- Adjust the sweetness and spice to your liking.
FAQs about Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe
1. What makes Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken so delicious?
Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is famous for its crispy Parmesan crust, which is complemented by a creamy Ranch and Provolone topping. The chicken is marinated in buttermilk to keep it extra juicy and tender, while the Panko breadcrumbs give the crust a satisfying crunch. The combination of savory Parmesan cheese, garlic butter, and the creamy ranch mixture makes it a standout dish.
2. Can I make Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken gluten-free?
Yes! You can make a gluten-free version of Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken by substituting the regular Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or using almond flour as a crust. Just ensure that the Ranch dressing and other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.
3. How do I keep my Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken from getting dry?
To keep your chicken juicy and tender, marinate it in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes before cooking. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken while locking in moisture. Additionally, baking or broiling the chicken with the Parmesan crust ensures it stays crispy without drying out.
4. Can I use other cheeses instead of Provolone for the creamy topping?
Absolutely! While Provolone gives the topping a rich and creamy texture, you can substitute it with Mozzarella, Gouda, or even Cheddar cheese if you prefer. These cheeses will still melt beautifully and enhance the overall flavor of your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
5. Can I prepare the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken ahead of time! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk for up to 24 hours and prepare the crust and creamy topping earlier in the day. Just assemble everything right before baking or broiling to ensure the chicken stays fresh and juicy.
6. How do I serve Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a Caesar salad. You can also serve it with a garlic butter sauce or creamy ranch dip for extra flavor.
7. Can I make Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken in the air fryer?
Yes, you can use an air fryer to cook longhorn steakhouse parmesan crusted chicken recipe! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), place the chicken in the basket, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Make sure to spray the chicken lightly with olive oil to help crisp the crust.
8. Is Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken a good option for meal prep?
Yes, Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can make extra chicken, store it in airtight containers, and refrigerate it for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the oven or air fryer to keep the crispy crust intact.