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If you’ve ever craved that perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and tender in a chicken dish that feels like a comforting hug on a plate, the Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen lineup. This flavorful recipe delivers juicy chicken breasts sealed with a luscious creamy Parmesan ranch layer and topped with a golden, buttery panko crust that will have you swooning bite after bite. It’s truly a crowd-pleaser and a delightful way to bring restaurant-quality excitement to your dinner table with familiar, delicious ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing complicated here — just straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating the balanced flavors and textures that make this dish shine. From the aromatic seasonings to the blend of cheeses and crunchy topping, every element supports the others perfectly.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main star, providing tender, juicy protein.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors throughout.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory goodness.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Gives a mild sweetness and richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings bright herbal notes.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing chicken to a golden perfection.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base that keeps the chicken moist.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess to the topping.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides sharp, nutty flavor in the creamy mixture.
- 1 tablespoon dry ranch seasoning mix: Adds that signature tangy ranch kick.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic punch for depth and aroma.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens and balances the creamy topping.
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese: Melts beautifully with a mild, buttery flavor.
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Forms part of the crispy crust topping.
- 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs: Creates a light, crunchy texture.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Coats the breadcrumbs for a golden finish.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Adds a pop of fresh color and flavor.
How to Make Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly greasing an oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Pat your chicken breasts dry — this is essential for a nice sear — then either slice them horizontally or pound them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly. Next, give both sides a generous sprinkle of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This seasoning blend builds that classic, irresistible flavor right at the start.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot and shimmering. Lay the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer, allowing them to sear undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes per side. You’re aiming for a beautiful golden crust here, sealing in those juices, and setting the foundation for your delicious crust. Once seared, transfer the chicken over to your prepared oven dish, arranging them neatly side by side.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Ranch Topping
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, dry ranch seasoning mix, minced garlic, and lemon juice until thick and creamy. This mixture is where the magic happens — rich, tangy, and packed with flavor. Give it a quick taste and feel free to adjust the seasonings with a pinch of salt, extra ranch mix, or more lemon juice if you want it punchier.
Step 4: Assemble the Chicken with Layers of Cheese and Crunch
Spoon the creamy Parmesan ranch mixture generously and evenly over each piece of chicken, spreading it close to the edges. Sprinkle shredded provolone cheese on top for an extra layer of creamy meltiness. Then, in a small bowl, combine shredded Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and look like damp sand. Press this buttery panko mixture onto the tops of the chicken breasts to create that signature crunchy crust.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Place the whole pan into the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, just long enough for the cheese to melt, the topping to become perfectly golden, and the chicken to warm through. For a little extra color and crunch, switch to broil mode for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully so the crust doesn’t burn. Once done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes — this helps the cheesy topping set and all those flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a bright, fresh note and a splash of color that makes the dish look as fantastic as it tastes.
How to Serve Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice, adding a hint of herbal brightness that balances the richness of the cheese and creamy topping. A few lemon wedges on the side can also elevate the dish by adding a fresh citrus burst if desired.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs beautifully with classic favorites like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables that soak up the cheesy goodness. A crisp green salad or garlic butter pasta will also complement and round out the meal perfectly, making dinner feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken breasts and serve them over a bed of buttery risotto or even stuffed into toasted hoagie rolls with a little extra provolone for a hearty sandwich. You can also serve individual portions in small cast-iron skillets for an impressive presentation at gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days while maintaining its flavors and textures best when reheated properly.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and taste.
Reheating
To reheat without losing the crispness of the delicious crust, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and the topping is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well and add extra juiciness, but because they are thicker, you might need to adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, though they may be a bit denser. Crushing some cornflakes or crackers can create a similar crunchy topping as well.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
You could try substituting the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan mayonnaise, sour cream, and dairy-free cheeses, though the flavor will be a bit different. The crispy topping may need experimenting with to find the right texture.
How spicy is the Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe?
This recipe isn’t spicy but rather savory and tangy with herbaceous notes and garlic. You can easily add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the creamy topping if you want a kick.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy topping and season the chicken a few hours ahead, then assemble right before baking. However, baking and eating fresh will yield the best texture for the crunchy topping.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a dish that tastes like it came from your favorite local steakhouse, the Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is a must-try. It’s a perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, creamy, and tender — all wrapped up in a recipe that’s straightforward and satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own staple for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Trust me, your family and friends will be asking for seconds in no time!
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Print
Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe delivers a deliciously crispy and cheesy crust over tender, pan-seared chicken breasts. Coated with a creamy Parmesan and ranch mixture and topped with a buttery panko crust, this dish is baked to golden perfection and sprinkled with fresh parsley for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Creamy Parmesan Ranch Mixture
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dry ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Cheese and Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease an oven-safe skillet or baking dish to prepare for the final baking step.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then slice each breast in half horizontally or pound them to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
- Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning evenly.
- Heat Olive Oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is hot and shimmering, ready for searing the chicken.
- Sear Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and just cooked through.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Move the seared chicken breasts to the prepared oven-safe skillet or baking dish and arrange them in a single layer for topping and baking.
- Make Creamy Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, dry ranch seasoning, minced garlic, and lemon juice until you get a thick and creamy mixture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the creamy Parmesan mixture and add more salt, ranch seasoning, or lemon juice as desired to balance the flavors.
- Apply Creamy Layer: Spoon the prepared creamy Parmesan ranch mixture evenly over each chicken piece, spreading it almost to the edges for full coverage.
- Add Provolone Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese evenly on top of the creamy mixture atop the chicken breasts.
- Prepare Panko Topping: In a small bowl, combine shredded Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, and melted unsalted butter.
- Mix Panko Mixture: Stir the mixture until all panko crumbs are evenly coated and resemble damp, sandy crumbles.
- Top Chicken: Generously sprinkle the buttery Parmesan panko mixture over each piece of chicken, pressing lightly so it adheres well.
- Bake: Place the topped chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes until the cheese melts, the topping becomes golden brown, and chicken is heated through.
- Optional Broil: For extra browning, broil the chicken for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning of the topping.
- Rest: Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the cheesy topping to set slightly.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top of the chicken for a fresh, colorful finish.
- Serve: Serve warm alongside your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, salad, or pasta for a complete meal.
Notes
- This recipe uses a stovetop searing followed by oven baking to achieve a crispy crust and juicy chicken inside.
- For even faster cooking, consider pounding the chicken breasts to uniform thickness before seasoning.
- Broiling is optional but adds a beautiful golden color and extra crispiness to the crust.
- Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness but can be omitted if unavailable.
- To reduce calories, swap mayonnaise and sour cream with low-fat versions, though it may affect creaminess.
