Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

If you’ve ever sunk your fork into Longhorn Steakhouse’s rich, golden-topped chicken and wished you could have it at home, this Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is about to become your new obsession. This dish coaxes tender, juicy chicken breasts into the spotlight, then crowns them with a dreamy blend of oozy provolone, tangy ranch, sharp Parmesan, and a satisfyingly crisp panko finish. It’s the kind of meal that feels both upscale and wildly comforting, and once you make it yourself, you’ll wonder why you ever waited for a restaurant craving to hit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Just a few well-chosen ingredients are all it takes to deliver that restaurant-style magic right at your own table. Every item here plays a starring role—from creating juicy, flavorful chicken to building irresistibly cheesy layers that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.

• Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless breasts for a thick, juicy bite and easy preparation.
• Salt/Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out every savory note in the chicken.
• Vegetable Oil: Provides a high smoke point, perfect for achieving that gorgeous golden sear.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness to the marinade and infuses each bite with luscious flavor.
• Ranch Dressing: Delivers creamy tang in both the marinade and the cheesy topping—don’t skip it!
• Worcestershire Sauce: Lends depth and umami that takes the marinade from simple to spectacular.
• Distilled White Vinegar: Brightens up the marinade to keep the chicken extra juicy and flavorful.
• Lemon Juice: Gives a pop of freshness that balances out the cheesy richness.
• Minced Garlic: That irresistible garlicky punch—use fresh for best results!
• Pepper: For a final hint of heat in every layer.
• Parmesan Cheese (chopped bits): Salty, nutty, and the star of the crave-worthy crust.
• Provolone Cheese (chopped bits): Melts beautifully and offers a mellow, creamy note in the topping.
• Buttermilk Ranch Salad Dressing: Adds serious silkiness and a tangy depth to the cheese blend.
• Melted Butter: Helps turn the panko into golden, crunchy perfection.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Delivers that signature restaurant crunch you’ll adore.
• Garlic Powder: Bolsters the cheese crust with a little extra savory oomph.

How to Make Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by flattening your chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thick. I like to tuck each one into a large freezer bag, then give it a few gentle whacks with a meat mallet or rolling pin—this step helps the chicken cook evenly and turns every mouthful into a juicy experience. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper for a simple but vital flavor foundation.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

Now, whisk together your olive oil, ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, white vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and pepper. This marinade is where the big flavors start building, soaking into the chicken and infusing it with brightness, tang, and that irresistible savory undertone we all crave from Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Pop the chicken back into a clean freezer bag and pour in the marinade you just made. Seal out the air, turn the bag to coat everything, and let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—or even overnight if you want some next-level juiciness. This soak is what makes the chicken flavorful clear to the center!

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat a cast iron skillet or your favorite heavy pan over medium-high, add 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil, and swirl it around. Add the marinated chicken (tongs make this easy) and cook 4–5 minutes per side without moving it—patience rewards you with that perfect golden sear. If needed, lower the heat so nothing burns. Once golden and cooked through, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and tent it with foil.

Step 5: Build the Parmesan Crust

Preheat your oven to broil (about 450°F). Stir together chopped Parmesan, provolone, and the buttermilk ranch dressing, then microwave the mixture in 15-second bursts just until gooey (don’t worry if it’s a little lumpy!). Spread this melty dream generously atop each piece of chicken—this is the Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken magic moment.

Step 6: Add the Crispy Topping

Mix melted butter, panko breadcrumbs, and garlic powder until thoroughly combined. Spoon this flavorful panko mixture right over the cheese-covered chicken, piling it on to ensure each bite offers an addictive crunch.

Step 7: Broil and Finish

Broil the chicken for 3–4 minutes, keeping a close eye as the topping turns a mouthwatering golden brown. Serve immediately, and listen for everyone’s delighted hums when you bring this Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken to the table. It’s restaurant-quality bliss, right at home!

How to Serve Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Garnishes

A little flourish can go a long way! Try showering the finished chicken with finely chopped fresh parsley, a little extra Parmesan, or even lemon zest. The fresh colors and added aromas make your Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken look and taste even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This chicken absolutely loves classic sides like buttery mashed potatoes, garlicky green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad. Those familiar flavors make the whole meal feel like a fancy steakhouse experience—right in your own dining room.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken and layer over a bed of creamy risotto or wrap slices in a warm sandwich bun with extra ranch and greens. It also shines cut into strips and served atop a fresh salad for a lighter, yet totally satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors married overnight are honestly even better, making the next day’s lunch a treat you’ll look forward to!

Freezing

If you want to save extra Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, tightly wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making busy weeknights so much easier.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through and the topping is crispy again. The microwave works in a pinch, though the crust won’t stay as crunchy—so the oven is always my go-to method!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a little juicier and more forgiving if you tend to overcook, and the flavors in this Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe adapt beautifully. Just watch cooking times—thighs may need a couple of extra minutes to cook through.

What if I don’t have provolone cheese?

No worries—mozzarella or even Monterey Jack can step in for provolone. While the taste will shift slightly, you’ll still get that ooey-gooey cheese pull and a delightful topping.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?

Yes, grilling is a fantastic option! Cook the marinated chicken over medium-high heat until done, then follow the recipe for the cheese and panko topping. Broil it for that golden finish, or place it briefly under a hot grill to crisp up.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Don’t skip marinating—it’s key to keeping the Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken juicy. Also, avoid overcooking; once it’s golden and the juices run clear, take it off the heat and let it rest before adding the topping.

Can I make this dish ahead for a dinner party?

Definitely! Sear the chicken and prep the cheese and panko toppings ahead of time. When guests arrive, top and broil the chicken just before serving for a totally fresh, restaurant-style finish.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been on the hunt for a feel-good, crowd-pleasing recipe, look no further than this Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. It’s everything you love in the restaurant favorite with the extra satisfaction of making something amazing at home. Don’t wait—invite a friend over and treat yourselves tonight!

Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 23 reviews

• Author: anna
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe recreates the popular restaurant dish with a flavorful marinade and a cheesy, crunchy topping that will make your taste buds sing. Juicy chicken breasts are seared to perfection and then topped with a savory blend of Parmesan, Provolone, and ranch dressing, finished off with a crispy panko breadcrumb crust. Serve this delectable dish with creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken Marinade

• 4 skinless/boneless chicken breasts
• Salt/Pepper (to taste)
• 3 Tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup ranch dressing
• 2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Distilled white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Parmesan Crust Topping

• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (chopped into bits)
• 1/2 cup Provolone cheese (chopped into bits)
• 6 Tablespoons Buttermilk Ranch salad dressing (regular Ranch is fine as well)
• 4 Tablespoons melted butter
• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Whisk all marinade ingredients together until well-combined. Pound chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper. Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet and sear chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Add the Parmesan Crust: Preheat the oven and combine Parmesan, Provolone, and Ranch dressing. Spread over chicken, then top with a mixture of melted butter, garlic powder, and panko breadcrumbs.
4. Broil: Broil the chicken for 3-4 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Serve hot with mashed potatoes.

Notes

• For baking or grilling instructions, refer to the notes section.
• Use a cast iron skillet for the best sear on the chicken.
• Watch the broiling process closely to prevent burning.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Searing, Broiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 42g
• Cholesterol: 140mg

Keywords: Parmesan Crusted Chicken, Copycat Recipe, Longhorn Steakhouse, Chicken Dinner