If you love dishes bursting with bold flavor and a crispy, cheesy crust then you are in for such a treat with this Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe. It perfectly combines juicy, marinated chicken with a heavenly layer of garlic-infused Parmesan and panko crumbs, finished with provolone cheese that melts just right. This is one of those recipes that instantly elevates weeknight dinners or impresses guests with its rich taste and irresistible texture, all while being surprisingly simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is straightforward but vital, coming together to create a balanced dish full of savory, zesty, and slightly tangy notes. With your hands on these essentials, you’ll ensure every bite is wonderfully moist on the inside and delightfully crisp on the outside.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 3/4 inch thickness: Ensures even cooking and tender texture throughout.
- 1 cup shredded provolone: Adds a creamy, mild cheesy layer that melts beautifully over the chicken.
- ½ cup olive oil: Provides moisture and richness in the marinade while helping flavors absorb.
- ½ cup bottled ranch dressing: Delivers tanginess and herbaceous notes integral to the marinade and topping.
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Brings a deep umami boost enhancing the overall savory profile.
- 1 teaspoon vinegar: Adds brightness balancing the richness of the cheese and oil.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Gives just a hint of citrus to lift the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: The star aromatic in this recipe, infusing each bite with punchy garlicky goodness.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Adds gentle heat and warmth.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan: Intensifies cheesiness in the marinade and the crumb topping.
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs: Creates the irresistible crunchy crust texture on top.
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt: Enhances the garlic flavors and adds seasoning to the crumb topping.
- ⅓ cup shredded Parmesan: Mixed into the toppings for extra cheesy richness.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Binds the crumb topping together and browns beautifully under the broiler.
How to Make Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
The magic starts by combining olive oil, ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, pepper, and grated Parmesan in a bowl to form a luscious marinade. Pour this mixture over the pounded chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor absorption. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours or, for even better results, overnight. The longer the chicken soaks in this tangy, garlicky bath, the juicier and more flavorful it becomes when cooked.
Step 2: Grill to Perfection
Once marinated, fire up your grill or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 12 to 15 minutes until it’s cooked through, juicy, and has those gorgeous grill marks. This grilling step locks in the marinade’s flavors and creates a sturdy base for the delicious crust that comes next.
Step 3: Prepare the Ranch Spread and Parmesan Crumb Topping
While your chicken grills, it’s time to whip up two key components that will define this recipe’s signature texture and taste. Mix together ¼ cup grated Parmesan and ¼ cup ranch dressing to form the creamy ranch spread. Then, in another bowl, combine panko bread crumbs, garlic salt, shredded Parmesan, and melted butter. This crumb topping should be evenly coated with the butter to ensure a golden, crunchy finish after broiling.
Step 4: Assemble and Broil
Preheat your oven broiler and place a rack in the center position. Transfer the grilled chicken breasts to an oven-safe casserole dish. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the ranch spread evenly over each piece, then sprinkle on the shredded provolone cheese. Finally, top generously with the Parmesan crumb mixture. Place the dish under the broiler and cook just until the cheese melts and the crumbs turn a beautiful, appetizing light brown. This final broil step guarantees a perfect crust that contrasts with the tender chicken beneath.
How to Serve Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To bring out the vibrant flavors and add a fresh pop, try garnishing your chicken with freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few dashes of cracked black pepper can also lend a sophisticated finish. These small touches brighten the presentation while complementing the garlicky, cheesy main star.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs beautifully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic green beans, which add comforting textures to the meal. For lighter options, a crisp Caesar salad or roasted asparagus works perfectly to balance the richness on the plate. Don’t hesitate to serve it alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up any extra juices.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress beyond plating the chicken plainly, slice the breasts diagonally and fan them out over a bed of wild rice or quinoa salad. Drizzle some extra ranch dressing or a lemon-garlic vinaigrette over the top for contrast. Serving in individual cast iron skillets makes for a rustic yet elegant presentation your dinner guests won’t forget.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers of this Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days and maintain the flavors nicely, making them perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
To freeze, place cooled chicken breasts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents sticking and preserves the crust’s texture. Frozen leftovers will stay good for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover chicken in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps to maintain the crispiness of the Parmesan crust without drying out the meat. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that satisfying crunch.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of provolone?
Absolutely! While provolone provides a mild, melty base, mozzarella or Monterey Jack can work well too if you prefer a different cheesy flavor or texture.
Do I have to grill the chicken? Can I bake it instead?
You can bake the marinated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through. Grilling adds a nice smoky flavor, but baking is a great alternative for indoor cooking.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap out the panko bread crumbs for gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The flavor and texture will stay deliciously close to the original.
Can I prepare the crumb topping in advance?
Definitely. You can mix the Parmesan crumb topping a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before using for best results.
What if I don’t have bottled ranch dressing?
Homemade ranch dressing or even a mix of sour cream with dried herbs can work as a substitute. The dressing adds creaminess and herb flavor, so try to replicate that as closely as possible.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and indulgent about the Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe that makes it a total crowd-pleaser. It’s the blend of juicy marinated chicken, creamy cheesy layers, and that irresistible crunchy coating that keeps you coming back for more. I hope you give this recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that turns any meal into a special occasion effortlessly. Happy cooking!
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Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 2-3 hours marinating time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (15 minutes grilling + 5 minutes broiling)
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling and Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe features juicy, marinated chicken breasts grilled to perfection, then topped with a creamy ranch spread, melted provolone, and a crunchy Parmesan crumb topping broiled to golden brown. Ready in just 30 minutes, this flavorful combination makes a delicious and satisfying meal for four.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 3/4 inch thickness
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup bottled ranch dressing
- 3 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp vinegar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Ranch Spread
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup bottled ranch dressing
Parmesan Crumb Topping
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 Tbsp melted butter
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, 1/2 cup ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, pepper, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan. Pour this marinade over the pounded chicken breasts and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours or overnight for best flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill and cook the marinated chicken breasts for 12 to 15 minutes until fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat.
- Prepare Ranch Spread: In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup bottled ranch dressing. Set aside.
- Make Parmesan Crumb Topping: Combine panko bread crumbs, garlic salt, shredded Parmesan, and melted butter in a bowl. Toss until crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Preheat Broiler: Position the oven rack in the center and preheat your broiler to high.
- Assemble and Broil: Transfer the grilled chicken breasts to an oven-safe casserole dish. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the ranch spread evenly on each breast. Top each with shredded provolone cheese and then sprinkle the Parmesan crumb topping evenly over the cheese layers.
- Broil to Finish: Place the casserole dish under the preheated broiler. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese melts and the crumb topping turns a light golden brown. Remove from oven.
- Serve: Serve the chicken hot immediately, enjoying the crispy, cheesy topping alongside the savory grilled chicken.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight intensifies the flavor and tenderness.
- Watch the chicken closely under the broiler to prevent burning the cheese and crumbs.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan.
- Panko bread crumbs provide a lighter and crunchier texture than regular bread crumbs.
- For a lower-fat option, reduce the amount of butter in the crumb topping or use a light butter substitute.
