Have you ever caught yourself daydreaming about the delicious flavors of a restaurant you love, only to realize you could easily make it at home? That’s how I felt when I set out to create this Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. With its savory marinade and irresistible Parmesan crust, this dish captures all the essence of the original meal right in my kitchen. Imagine savoring juicy chicken breasts, perfectly seared and broiled until golden and bubbly.
One of the best parts about this recipe is its speed—satisfying your cravings in just 30 minutes makes it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner. Plus, you can easily prepare variations like grilled or baked chicken, even accommodating a keto-friendly version with just a few adjustments. I promise, whether you’re serving it up for loved ones or treating yourself after a long day, your taste buds are in for a real treat. Are you ready to transform your kitchen into a cozy steakhouse? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken so irresistible?
Simplicity at its Peak: With incredibly easy steps, you can whip up this dish in under 30 minutes.
Savory Marinade: A mix of robust flavors infuses the chicken, ensuring each bite is packed with deliciousness.
Golden Crust: The Parmesan or Provolone crust provides a satisfying crunch that brings the dish to life.
Versatile Options: Feel free to grill or bake your chicken, or try a keto-friendly version with minimal adjustments.
Crowd-Pleaser Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
For a different taste sensation, you might enjoy pairing it with a creamy Cajun Potato Soup, which complements the meal beautifully!
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Ingredients
To recreate this delightful dish at home, you'll need a handful of quality ingredients!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Skinless and boneless for a tender, juicy base; pound to ½ inch thickness for even cooking.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the chicken's flavor; use to taste.
For the Marinade
- Olive Oil – Serves as a flavorful base for the marinade, keeping the chicken moist; use ⅓ cup.
- Ranch Dressing – Imparts a creamy tang and depth; use ⅓ cup for the marinade and 6 tablespoons for the crust (regular ranch works too).
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami richness; use 2 tablespoons to boost flavor.
- Distilled White Vinegar – Brings a touch of acidity to the marinade; use 1 teaspoon for brightness.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the overall flavor; add 1 teaspoon for a fresh zing.
- Minced Garlic – Aromatic and pungent, elevating taste; use 1 tablespoon mixed into the marinade.
For the Crust
- Parmesan Cheese – The star of the crust, delivering cheesy flavor and texture; use ½ cup, preferably BelGioioso for the best taste.
- Provolone Cheese – Adds a melty goodness to the crust; use ½ cup and feel free to substitute with Swiss, Mozzarella, or Munster if needed.
- Melted Butter – Binds the crust ingredients together while adding richness; use 4 tablespoons for that extra flavor layer.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Provide that perfect crunch to the crust; use ¾ cup for a delightful texture.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile of both chicken and crust; use 2 teaspoons to elevate taste.
This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to happen in your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Step 1
Begin by preparing the chicken for your Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, white vinegar, lemon juice, and minced garlic to create the marinade. Take the skinless, boneless chicken breasts and pound them to about ½ inch thickness to ensure even cooking. Season them with salt and pepper before placing them into a large resealable freezer bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, remove excess air, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for optimal flavor infusion.
Step 2
Once marinated, heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the chicken into the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until each piece is golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when no longer pink in the center. After searing, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet or a clean skillet, covering with foil to keep warm.
Step 3
While the chicken rests, it’s time to make the delicious Parmesan crust that tops your Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped Parmesan and provolone cheeses with ⅓ cup of ranch dressing. Microwave this mixture in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until the cheese melts and is gooey. Afterward, fold in the melted butter, garlic powder, and panko breadcrumbs until well-combined. This creates a rich, cheesy mixture that will give your chicken its signature crust.
Step 4
Preheat your broiler, setting it to high. Spread the cheesy crust mixture evenly over each piece of the warm chicken. Place the baking sheet under the broiler for about 3-4 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning. You’re looking for the crust to turn bubbly and golden brown, indicating it’s ready to bring that delightful crunch to your Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
Step 5
With your chicken broiled to perfection, it’s now time to serve and enjoy! Carefully transfer the chicken onto a platter, and consider pairing it with sides like creamy mashed potatoes and roasted broccoli or green beans for a complete meal. Gather your loved ones at the table, relish in the beautiful presentation, and get ready to savor the remarkable flavors of your homemade Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken!
Expert Tips for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
- Marinade Magic: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight if possible; this intensifies the flavors, creating an even more delicious copycat experience.
- Perfect Sear: Avoid moving the chicken around while searing; this helps achieve that coveted golden crust.
- Cheese Mixture: Don’t worry about the cheese mixture being a little lumpy; it adds character to your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken and creates a delightful texture.
- Baking Method: If opting for oven-baking, preheat to 425°F and add a splash of water to keep the chicken moist while it cooks.
- Keto-Friendly Swap: For a keto version, replace panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds for a low-carb crunchy topping.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with hearty sides like garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
How to Store and Freeze Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool before sealing to retain moisture.
Freezer: Freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. For the best results, cover with foil to keep the crust crispy.
Tip: If you plan to freeze, consider preparing the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken without the crust and add it fresh just before serving.
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Variations
Feel free to adapt this recipe to suit your family's taste or dietary needs—a delicious twist awaits!
- Baked Chicken: For a lighter option, place marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake at 425°F for 15-18 minutes. This will yield tender, juicy results.
- Grilled Chicken: Grill the marinated chicken breasts over medium-high heat for a smoky flavor. Charred edges elevate this dish to new heights!
- Keto Version: Replace panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds for a low-carb alternative that still delivers that desired crunch. Enjoy a keto feast!
- Italian Twist: Use Italian dressing instead of ranch for the marinade. This adds a herby depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Cheese Alternatives: Swap Provolone with Swiss or Mozzarella for a milder taste. Each cheese brings its own character to the dish.
- Herb-Infused Ranch: Experiment with herb-infused ranch dressing in the crust for an exciting flavor boost—a perfect match for savory chicken!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for an extra kick of heat, balancing the creamy and crunchy textures beautifully.
- Lemon Herb Marinade: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme and a splash more lemon juice to your marinade for an invigorating flavor packed with freshness.
Transform your kitchen into a culinary playground with these fun variations!
Make Ahead Options
These Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse into the meat. Simply pound the chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, place them in a resealable bag with the marinade, and refrigerate. The Parmesan and Provolone crust mixture can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply sear your chicken and broil with the crust on top for about 3-4 minutes until bubbly and golden. This way, you can enjoy fresh, restaurant-quality chicken with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken?
Create a dinner that delights the senses and complements this savory chicken with these delicious pairings!
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery, these potatoes soak up any leftover sauce and add comfort to your meal.
- Roasted Broccoli: The slight crunch and vibrant color of roasted broccoli provide a fresh balance to the savory chicken. Drizzled with a touch of olive oil and garlic, it’s irresistible!
- Garlic Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed with garlic add a pop of color and a fresh taste, complementing the richness of the chicken beautifully.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons cut through the richness, making each bite a refreshing experience. A touch of Parmesan here ties it all back together!
- Herbed Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy, herbed rice brings a fragrant element to the meal and balances the hearty chicken with its subtle flavor.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs wonderfully, its fruity notes enhancing the flavors of the chicken while keeping every bite light.
These options ensure a delightful dining experience, with the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken as the centerpiece of your family meal!
Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe chicken breasts?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for a bright pink color with no dark spots or discoloration. They should feel firm and moist but not sticky. If possible, opt for organic or free-range chicken for the best flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
After enjoying your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled for a bit before sealing to maintain that juicy tenderness.
Can I freeze the chicken?
Yes! To freeze your Chicken Parmesan, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat!
How should I reheat the chicken to maintain the crust?
For the best reheating results, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil to prevent the crust from burning. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain that delicious crunchy topping!
Is there a way to make it gluten-free?
Certainly! For a gluten-free version of your Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds. This change keeps the dish satisfying and crunchy without compromising flavor.
Can my dog eat chicken like this?
It's very important to avoid sharing your Parmesan crusted chicken with your furry friends, as some ingredients like garlic and certain cheeses can be harmful to dogs. Stick with plain, unseasoned chicken if you want to treat your pet!
Irresistibly Easy Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken at Home
A delightful recipe for Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken that captures all the essence of the original meal right in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Keto
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- to taste salt and pepper
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- ⅓ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup provolone cheese
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken and marinate it by mixing olive oil, ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, white vinegar, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a bowl. Pound chicken breasts to ½ inch thickness, season with salt and pepper, place in a resealable bag, pour the marinade, seal, and refrigerate for 30 minutes or overnight.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the marinated chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet, cover with foil to keep warm.
- Make the Parmesan crust by microwaving a bowl of chopped Parmesan, provolone cheese, and ranch dressing, stirring until melted. Fold in melted butter, garlic powder, and panko breadcrumbs.
- Preheat the broiler, spread the cheese mixture on top of the chicken, and broil for 3-4 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve hot on a platter with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Allow chicken to marinate overnight for better flavor.
- Avoid moving chicken while searing to achieve a golden crust.
- The cheese mixture can be lumpy for texture.
- For oven-baking, preheat to 425°F.
- For a keto version, substitute panko with crushed pork rinds.
- This dish pairs well with garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
