Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Savory Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Crispy, golden chicken brings restaurant magic right to your kitchen with this longhorn steakhouse parmesan crusted chicken recipe that promises restaurant-quality flavor.

Tender chicken breasts get coated in a rich, cheesy parmesan crust that locks in incredible moisture and taste.

Professional chefs have long treasured this method of creating an irresistibly crunchy exterior.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of savory parmesan and juicy chicken that will make your taste buds dance.

The secret lies in the carefully seasoned coating that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal.

You can easily recreate this steakhouse favorite with just a few simple ingredients and basic cooking techniques.

This recipe turns an everyday dinner into a memorable culinary experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Restaurant-Style Crusted Chicken: What Sets It Apart

  • Breeze Through Prep: Pounding chicken is quick and simple, making this recipe super accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.
  • Customize Your Flavor: Flexible marinating time lets you adapt the recipe to your schedule, whether you have 30 minutes or want to prep ahead overnight.
  • Crispy Gourmet Experience: Restaurant-quality crust transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering dish that looks and tastes professionally prepared.
  • Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Taste: Using common pantry staples like panko, cheese, and ranch, you can create a delicious meal without complicated shopping trips.

Ingredient Lineup for Crusted Chicken

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breast: A tender and lean protein that serves as the base of this restaurant-style dish.
Marinade Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper: A classic combination that helps tenderize and enhance the chicken's natural flavor.
Cheese Coating:
  • Parmesan Cheese, Ranch Seasoning: A savory blend that adds rich, tangy depth to the chicken's crust.
Crust Components:
  • Panko Breadcrumbs, Butter, Garlic Powder: A crispy mixture that creates a golden, crunchy exterior for the chicken.

Mastering Restaurant Crusted Chicken at Home

Step 1: Tenderize the Chicken

Grab your chicken breasts and gently pound them to create an even, tender thickness.

Sprinkle both sides with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Marinade

Whisk together your marinade ingredients in a bowl.

Submerge the seasoned chicken completely in the marinade.

Cover and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor infusion.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat.

Remove chicken from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.

Carefully place chicken in the hot skillet.

Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms and the chicken is fully cooked through.

Step 4: Prepare Cheesy Coating

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine:
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Ranch seasoning

Melt the mixture in short bursts, stirring between each interval.

In a separate bowl, mix:
  • Melted butter
  • Garlic powder
  • Panko breadcrumbs

Step 5: Create the Final Crust

Preheat the broiler.

Transfer seared chicken to a baking sheet.

Generously spread the melted cheese mixture over each chicken breast.

Sprinkle the seasoned panko breadcrumbs on top.

Place under the broiler for 3-4 minutes until the topping turns a gorgeous golden-brown and becomes delightfully crispy.

Tips for Perfect Crusted Chicken Results

  • Use plastic wrap or a zip-top bag when pounding chicken to prevent messy splatters and ensure even thickness.
  • Let chicken marinate overnight for deeper flavor penetration and more tender meat.
  • Microwave cheese mixture in 15-second intervals, stirring between each to prevent burning and achieve smooth consistency.
  • Toast panko breadcrumbs briefly in a dry skillet before adding to the recipe for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally for safe and juicy results.

Crusted Chicken Variations to Savor

  • Herb-Crusted Swap: Replace ranch with fresh chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley for a garden-fresh Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use almond flour or gluten-free panko instead of traditional breadcrumbs, ensuring crispy texture for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Spicy Southwestern Spin: Mix chipotle powder into cheese blend and add crushed tortilla chips for a zesty, crunchy alternative that brings heat and texture.
  • Low-Carb Keto Option: Substitute panko with crushed pork rinds and use full-fat cheese blend, creating a protein-rich crust without added carbohydrates.

Best Ways to Plate Crusted Chicken

  • Zesty Plate Presentation: Slice chicken diagonally and fan out on a white ceramic plate, highlighting the golden-brown crust and juicy interior.
  • Flavor Companions: Serve alongside roasted garlic mashed potatoes and honey-glazed baby carrots for a complete, colorful meal that complements the chicken's rich flavors.
  • Fresh Garnish Touch: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top to add brightness and a pop of green color, enhancing the dish's visual appeal and providing a subtle herbal note.
  • Wine Pairing Delight: Pour a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay to balance the chicken's richness and bring out the subtle ranch and cheese undertones.

Proper Storage for Crusted Chicken Dishes

  • Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Wrap individual pieces separately to maintain crispiness and prevent moisture buildup.
  • Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Chicken will keep well for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm chicken in oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwave, which can make crust soggy and tough. Sprinkle fresh breadcrumbs before reheating to revive crunch.
  • Always let chicken cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and maintain texture. Cover loosely to allow air circulation and prevent soggy crust.

FAQs

  • What type of cheese works best for the crust?

Parmesan and mozzarella are ideal because they melt smoothly and create a crispy, golden top layer with great flavor.

  • Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, this recipe works perfectly with pork chops or turkey cutlets as alternative protein options that will absorb the marinade and crust similarly.

  • How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Pound the chicken to an even thickness, marinate for at least 30 minutes, and avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check internal temperature reaches 165°F.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the panko breadcrumbs contain gluten. You can substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

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Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe


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4.8 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent Longhorn Steakhouse parmesan crusted chicken emerges as a delightful culinary journey through rich, crispy layers of flavor. Crisp parmesan coating and tender chicken create a perfect harmony that will satisfy your dinner cravings with restaurant-quality goodness.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 4 skinless/boneless chicken breasts

Cheeses:

  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, chopped
  • 1/2 cup Provolone cheese, chopped

Breading and Seasoning:

  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Liquids and Marinades:

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1/3 cup ranch dressing
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 6 tablespoons buttermilk ranch dressing
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Gently flatten chicken breasts to uniform thickness, ensuring even cooking and tender texture. Season generously with salt and pepper for foundational flavor.
  2. Whisk marinade ingredients together, fully submerge chicken pieces, and refrigerate for minimum 30 minutes or up to overnight for deeper taste infusion.
  3. Heat skillet over medium-high temperature, creating a hot surface for searing. Cook chicken 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown exterior develops and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Microwave cheese mixture until smoothly melted, stirring periodically to achieve consistent texture. In separate bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and garlic powder for crispy coating.
  5. Spread melted cheese mixture evenly over cooked chicken breasts, ensuring complete coverage. Sprinkle seasoned panko breadcrumbs on top for additional crunch.
  6. Position oven rack 4-5 inches from broiler. Broil chicken for 3-4 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning, until breadcrumbs turn golden brown and cheese bubbles slightly.
  7. Remove from oven and let chicken rest 3-5 minutes before serving, allowing juices to redistribute and ensuring maximum tenderness.

Notes

  • Tenderize chicken gently with a meat mallet to ensure even thickness and prevent tearing during cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe, perfectly cooked chicken without drying out.
  • Customize crust by substituting panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for alternative dietary needs like keto or gluten-sensitive diets.
  • Enhance flavor by experimenting with different cheese blends like parmesan and mozzarella or adding herbs like thyme and rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Prep Time: 35 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Searing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 1200mg
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

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