Name: Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, or 4 chicken cutlets thighs are also fine to use; 1/4 Cup Ranch Dressing; 1/4 Cup Italian Dressing; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Onion Powder; 1 tsp Dried Basil; 1 tsp Black Pepper; 2.5 oz Shredded Parmesan Cheese; 1/2 Cup Ranch Dressing; 1 Cup Italian Style Panko Breadcrumbs; 1 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese; 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter, melted; 1 tsp Avocado Oil; 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter; 4 Provolone Cheese Slices; 2 Mozzarella Slices

If you crave the comfort and crave-worthy flavor of the Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’re in for a treat. This irresistible homemade copycat brings that iconic crispy, cheesy chicken experience right to your kitchen table, complete with all the gooey cheeses and savory, golden crust you love. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a crowd-pleasing dinner the whole family will go crazy for, you’ll be amazed by how easy and satisfying this recipe is to make. Dive in and discover why this dish is a favorite for so many!

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These straightforward ingredients are all you need to whip up Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home. Each component plays a vital role in building flavor, adding texture, or creating that iconic cheesy topping—don’t skip a thing!

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The heart of this recipe; ensure they’re thinly sliced or use cutlets for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
Ranch Dressing: Brings a creamy, tangy kick and helps tenderize the chicken as it marinates.
Italian Dressing: Adds zesty, herby flavors for a punchy marinade base.
Garlic Powder: Delivers warmth and savory depth to every bite.
Onion Powder: Infuses subtle sweetness and extra flavor into the marinade.
Dried Basil: Bright herbal notes heighten the Italian flair of the dish.
Black Pepper: Adds just a touch of heat and rounds out the spice profile.
Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Key for the cheesy, crispy topping and that signature flavor.
Italian-Style Panko Breadcrumbs: Ensures the crust bakes up golden brown and crunchy.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Gives extra savory richness to the breadcrumb topping.
Unsalted Butter: Adds irresistible richness and helps those breadcrumbs toast beautifully.
Provolone Cheese Slices: Melts into a lovely blanket of creaminess over the chicken.
Mozzarella Slices: Offers gooey stretch and subtle tang to the cheese layer.
Avocado Oil: A high-heat oil to help the chicken sear perfectly in the pan.

How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prep and Marinate the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts into thinner fillets, or simply use chicken cutlets for faster cooking and extra tenderness. Mix together the ranch dressing, Italian dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, and black pepper in a large bowl. Dunk the chicken in this flavorful marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. For the juiciest results, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes—overnight is even better if you can plan ahead!

Step 2: Assemble Your Cheesy Parmesan Layer

While your chicken soaks up all those savory flavors, combine shredded Parmesan cheese with ranch dressing in a small bowl. This mixture will transform into the gooey, luscious topping that makes Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken so unforgettable. Set aside and let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Prepare the Perfect Breadcrumb Topping

In another bowl, toss together the Italian-style panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter until every crumb is coated in buttery, cheesy goodness. This mixture is what gives your chicken its golden, crunchy crown—don’t be afraid to sneak a taste!

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Add avocado oil and a bit of butter to a large skillet and heat over medium. Once hot, place your marinated chicken in the pan. Let it cook undisturbed until the underside is beautifully golden before flipping. When both sides have that satisfying crust and the chicken is cooked through, you’re ready for the best part: the toppings!

Step 5: Cheese It Up

Preheat your oven on low broil. Arrange cooked chicken pieces on a baking sheet or oven-safe pan. Drape each piece with a slice of provolone and mozzarella, then pile on your Parmesan-ranch mixture. Slide the chicken under the broiler for about five minutes, just until the cheese bubbles and turns irresistible.

Step 6: Add the Crunch, Broil Again, and Serve

Finally, spoon your buttery Parmesan breadcrumb topping over the melty cheese. Return the chicken to the broiler for another four to five minutes. Watch closely—you’re looking for golden brown crumbs and bubbling cheese. The scents wafting from your oven will have everyone hovering in anticipation. Serve hot and get ready to wow!

How to Serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Garnishes

For a pop of color and fresh flavor, sprinkle finely chopped parsley or fresh basil over the finished chicken. A dusting of extra grated Parmesan just before serving adds a touch of restaurant flair and amps up the cheese factor even more.

Side Dishes

This chicken is practically begging to be paired with comforting sides! Think creamy mashed potatoes, roasted garlic green beans, a simple Caesar salad, or buttery pasta. The rich, savory crust also plays well with a bright tomato salad or some lemony asparagus.

Creative Ways to Present

For a showstopping dinner, serve Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes or nestle it atop lightly dressed arugula. For entertaining, try slicing the chicken and arranging it on a platter with toothpicks for an appetizer twist. Or, stack slices between crusty bread with extra melted cheese for a decadent sandwich you’ll dream about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have extra, pop cooled chicken into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The topping will hold its crunch surprisingly well if you reheat it properly.

Freezing

To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap each piece in plastic wrap and transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Stash in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

For optimal crispiness, reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer at a low temperature until warmed through. This will revive that buttery breadcrumb topping and keep the cheeses gooey—microwaving works in a pinch, but you’ll miss out on the cascade of textures.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe and stay juicy and tender, even after broiling. Just adjust the cooking time so they’re cooked through.

How do I keep the breadcrumb topping from burning under the broiler?

Broil the chicken on a low setting and keep a close eye on it. Every oven is different, so check frequently and pull the tray as soon as the crumbs turn golden and toasty.

Can I make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the Italian panko breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs—the rest of the recipe remains unchanged and equally delicious.

What kind of ranch and Italian dressings are best?

Homemade dressings are wonderful if you have them on hand, but store-bought works just fine. Choose dressings you love the taste of, since their flavor really shines through in the marinade and cheese layer.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all! The classic Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is big on savory and cheesy flavors, but if you love a kick, feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade or topping.

Final Thoughts

This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken has earned its spot as a weeknight sensation and dinner party hero for good reason—it’s indulgent, comforting, and guaranteed to put smiles on everyone’s faces. Give it a try and see just how easy and delicious homemade can be!