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This hearty Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe brings restaurant quality flavor right to your dinner table. The secret is in the flavorful marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible taste before it's topped with a golden, crispy Parmesan crust that will have your family begging for seconds.
I first made this recipe when my family was craving our favorite Longhorn Steakhouse dish but couldn't justify the expense of dining out. After perfecting this version, my husband actually prefers my homemade version to the restaurant original.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: the foundation of this dish providing lean protein
- Parmesan cheese: freshly grated provides the nutty base for the crust
- Provolone cheese: adds a creamy richness that melts perfectly
- Ranch dressing: brings tangy creaminess to both marinade and crust
- Panko breadcrumbs: create that signature crispy texture that makes this dish special
- Garlic powder: essential for authentic flavor that permeates every bite
- Worcestershire sauce: adds depth and umami notes to the marinade
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place chicken in freezer bag and gently pound to even thickness around half inch. This ensures even cooking and tenderness. Combine marinade ingredients until smooth and pour over seasoned chicken. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium high heat until shimmering. Carefully place marinated chicken in hot oil without crowding the pan. Let it develop a golden crust before flipping approximately 4 to 5 minutes per side. The key is resisting the urge to move the chicken while it sears.
- Create the Parmesan Crust:
- Mix Parmesan and provolone cheeses with ranch dressing. Microwave in short bursts until melted into a spreadable consistency. In a separate bowl combine melted butter with garlic powder and panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated. The moisture from the butter helps the breadcrumbs achieve that perfect golden color.
- Finish and Broil:
- Spread cheese mixture over seared chicken then top with breadcrumb mixture. Broil for just 3 to 4 minutes watching carefully until the crust turns golden brown and crispy. The contrast between the crunchy topping and juicy chicken creates the signature Longhorn experience.
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The provolone cheese is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. While most copycat versions skip it, those thin slices from the deli counter melt into the Parmesan creating that stretchy, indulgent texture that makes the restaurant version so addictive. I remember serving this at a family gathering where my culinary snob brother in law asked for the recipe thinking it was a chef's secret technique.
Alternative Cooking Methods
For those busy weeknights when you don't want to monitor a skillet, the baking method offers a fantastic hands-off approach. Simply place the chicken in a dish that fits snugly with a splash of water to create steam, bake until just cooked through, then add your toppings and broil. The results are nearly identical with significantly less hands-on time.
Time-Saving Shortcuts
When pressed for time, substitute the homemade marinade with good quality Italian dressing. This quick swap maintains the flavor profile while cutting prep time significantly. About one cup of dressing replaces all the marinade ingredients and still delivers that signature tang and herb notes that make the chicken so flavorful.
Perfect Pairings
This chicken truly shines when served with creamy mashed potatoes which catch any bits of the melty Parmesan crust that might fall off during serving. For a complete Longhorn experience, add a side of steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables that provide color contrast and nutritional balance to the plate.
Keto Adaptations
For those following a keto lifestyle, crushed pork rinds make an excellent substitute for the panko breadcrumbs. They provide the same satisfying crunch while keeping carbs minimal. Combined with the cheese and ranch topping, the flavor profile stays intact while making the dish appropriate for low-carb diets.
Common Queries
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor. You can also prepare the components separately and assemble just before cooking. For best results, add the Parmesan crust and broil just before serving to maintain the crispy texture.
- → What sides pair well with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, garlic butter pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For authentic Longhorn Steakhouse experience, serve with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate method to check doneness. The chicken should also be firm to the touch and the juices should run clear.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts. They may require slightly different cooking times (typically 5-7 minutes per side when searing). Thighs tend to be more forgiving and remain juicy even when cooked a bit longer.
- → What's a good substitute for buttermilk ranch dressing?
If you don't have buttermilk ranch dressing, you can use regular ranch dressing, Caesar dressing, or even a mixture of mayonnaise and sour cream with herbs. Some people also enjoy using herb cheese spread as mentioned in the recipe tips.
- → How do I make this dish keto-friendly?
For a keto version, replace the panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds as suggested in the recipe notes. This provides similar crunch while keeping carbs low. Also ensure your ranch dressing doesn't contain added sugars.