If you’re searching for a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive, look no further than this Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Inspired by a steakhouse favorite, it features juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken breasts crowned with melty provolone, creamy ranch spread, and the most irresistible golden Parmesan crumb topping. It’s the kind of entree that becomes an instant favorite, whether you’re hosting a special dinner or just want a little extra joy at the end of your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simple ingredients working delicious magic together. Every single addition — from pantry staples to cheeses — layers in flavor, texture, or color, making Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken a genuine standout.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these are the canvas that soaks up all the savory seasonings.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps give the chicken that gorgeous golden sear.
- Salt: Essential for amplifying all of the other bold flavors in each bite.
- Black pepper: Brings a gentle kick and warmth that rounds out the seasoning.
- Garlic powder: Adds depth and a mellow garlicky punch, both in the marinade and the topping.
- Smoked paprika: Drives home a subtle smokiness and gives the crust its inviting color.
- Mayonnaise: The base for a lusciously creamy and tangy ranch spread layer.
- Ranch dressing: Brings herbaceous, zesty notes that make the cheese and chicken shine.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Essential for both the ranch spread and crumb topping; nutty and sharp.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Light and extra crispy, they make the topping irresistible.
- Melted butter: Binds the crumb topping together while giving it a golden crunch.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A pop of green and freshness in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Provolone cheese: Melts perfectly and brings classic Italian creaminess to the party.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Bubbles and browns beautifully for a cheese pull moment you’ll love.
How to Make Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Step 1: Prep and Season Your Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, place your chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness. This little trick ensures they cook evenly and stay tender. Generously season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika — this is your chance to lay down bold flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Sear for Flavor
Heat your largest oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Sear the chicken for about three to four minutes on each side, just until a deep golden crust forms. Don’t worry about cooking through yet — the oven will handle that part. What you get from this step is all that delicious caramelization that makes Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken legendary.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Ranch Layer
While the chicken cools off-heat, stir together mayonnaise, ranch dressing, and grated Parmesan in a small bowl. This creamy ranch spread is like a magic glue, holding the cheesy layer and crumbs in place while adding a zesty tang that makes each bite pop.
Step 4: Mix the Parmesan Crumb Topping
In a separate bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley if you’re using it. Melted butter is key for even browning, while parsley adds color and lightness — the finishing touch that really wakes up the topping.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Lay a slice of provolone cheese on each chicken breast to serve as your gooey, melty base. Spread a generous spoonful or two of the ranch mixture over that, then blanket the whole thing with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Be as generous as you like — an extra-thick crust never hurts anyone.
Step 6: Bake and Finish with Cheese
Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes. You’re watching for the chicken to reach 165°F (74°C) and for the topping to turn golden and crispy. In the final two minutes, sprinkle mozzarella over the crust and let it melt into gooey perfection. If you’re after an even crispier finish, switch your oven to broil for a minute or two, keeping a close eye so nothing burns.
How to Serve Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Garnishes
A classic touch is a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil — it brightens up the plate with freshness and a pop of color. A little extra grated Parmesan or a turn of cracked black pepper over the top never goes amiss, evoking an extra layer of flavor and aroma just before you dig in.
Side Dishes
This savory chicken pairs beautifully with velvety mashed potatoes, a crisp Caesar salad, or simple steamed green beans. You really can’t go wrong: the richness of Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken loves something fresh, creamy, or green alongside it, much like at your favorite steakhouse.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving for a crowd or a romantic in-home date night, slice the chicken and fan the pieces out over a bed of buttery pasta, or nestle them into pillowy slider buns for irresistible sandwiches. For a lighter twist, lay slices over a big leafy salad dressed with a dribble of lemony vinaigrette.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any extra Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken will keep well covered in the fridge for up to three days. Use an airtight container to preserve the juicy, cheesy goodness and keep the crumb topping a bit crisper.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, let the chicken cool completely first. Wrap each breast tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag. It’s best enjoyed within two months for peak flavor, and the crumb topping stays surprisingly crisp once reheated in the oven.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven for about 10 to 15 minutes. This preserves juiciness and helps the topping stay crunchy. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave works too, but follow with a couple minutes under the broiler for that craveable crust.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully and are extra juicy. Just keep in mind they might need a couple extra minutes in the oven to reach 165°F.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs can be substituted, but panko’s light crispness is what gives this Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken its signature crunch. If you have time, toast plain breadcrumbs in the oven for a similar effect.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the panko breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs, and the rest of the recipe remains exactly the same.
Can I make the crumb topping ahead of time?
Yes, you can blend the crumb topping ingredients up to a day ahead and store in an airtight container. Add the melted butter just before assembling so everything stays crisp and fresh.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best method is to use an instant-read thermometer. Your chicken is ready when it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast — no guessing, just juicy perfection every time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a dinner that’s every bit as satisfying as a restaurant meal (but so easy to make at home), this Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is calling your name. Give it a try next time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones — it’s bound to earn cheers all around the table!
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Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a special dinner at home. With a flavorful Parmesan crumb topping and a cheesy layer, this chicken is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
For the ranch spread:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
For the Parmesan crumb topping:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the cheese layer:
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare chicken: Pound chicken breasts, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sear in skillet.
- Prepare spreads and toppings: Mix ranch spread ingredients and combine Parmesan crumb mixture.
- Assemble and bake: Top chicken with provolone, ranch spread, and Parmesan crumb mixture. Bake until golden and chicken reaches internal temperature.
- Final touch: Add mozzarella and broil for extra crispiness.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for a restaurant-style meal.
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