Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

There’s something truly magical about recreating your favorite restaurant dishes at home, and this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a shining example. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts enveloped in a golden, crispy Parmesan crust, finished with a rich and creamy cheddar sauce—comfort food elevated to steakhouse quality. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner with the family or a special weekend gathering, this dish has the wow factor that will impress anyone at the table.

If you’ve ever wished you could bring the steakhouse experience into your own kitchen, this recipe delivers. It’s approachable, flavorful, and layered with textures and flavors that are downright irresistible. From the crispy, cheesy crust to the creamy cheddar sauce, every bite is a balance of savory richness and satisfying crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this Parmesan Crusted Chicken deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation:

• Steakhouse Flavor at Home: Get the taste of Longhorn Steakhouse without leaving your kitchen.
• Golden Crispy Crust: The combination of Parmesan cheese, panko, and butter creates a crust that’s crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside.
• Versatile & Easy: Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or when you just want to treat yourself.
• Creamy Cheddar Sauce: The indulgent cheddar cream sauce takes this dish from simple to extraordinary.
• Customizable: Swap cheeses, add herbs, or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 4 people and uses readily available ingredients grouped by component for clarity.

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Oil

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Parmesan Crust Mixture

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

Ranch Mixture

• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cheddar Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this dish perfectly, gather the following tools:

• Oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron)
• Small mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or spoon for spreading mixtures
• Knife and cutting board
• Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Sear the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.

Step 2: Bake the Chicken

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the oven and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan Crust Mixture

In a small bowl, combine:

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

Mix well until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Make the Ranch Spread

In a separate bowl, mix together:

• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Set this aside to spread over the chicken later.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheddar Cream Sauce

In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in:

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Stir until smooth and creamy, then keep warm on low heat.

Step 6: Assemble the Crusted Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked:

1. Spread a layer of the ranch mixture over each chicken breast.
2. Press the Parmesan crust mixture on top of the ranch spread lightly so it adheres.

Step 7: Broil for Extra Crispiness

Preheat your broiler to high. Place the chicken under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 8: Serve

Plate the chicken and drizzle the cheddar cream sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Crispier Crust: Broil for an extra minute if you prefer an even crunchier top.
• Cheese Substitutions: Swap cheddar for mozzarella for a milder flavor, or try a sharp Asiago for extra zing.
• Seasoning Adjustments: Add paprika, cayenne, or crushed red pepper for a subtle heat.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs instead of regular.
• Dairy-Free Options: Replace Parmesan and cheddar with vegan alternatives and use plant-based cream.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish is rich, cheesy, and indulgent. The crust is crispy and slightly nutty from the Parmesan, while the cheddar cream sauce adds a velvety, savory touch. The ranch layer gives it a subtle tang that complements the cheese perfectly.

Best Side Dishes:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Steamed or roasted vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, or green beans)
• Caesar or garden salad
• Rice pilaf

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

Component	Amount
Calories	620 kcal
Protein	45 g
Carbohydrates	18 g
Fat	42 g
Fiber	1 g

Dietary Notes:

• Not vegetarian or vegan due to chicken and dairy.
• Can be made gluten-free with appropriate breadcrumb substitutes.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Advance Prep: Mix the crust and ranch mixtures in advance to save time.
• Storage: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to maintain crust crispiness; avoid microwaving if possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work well, though they may require slightly longer baking time.

Q2: Can I make this without ranch dressing?
A: Absolutely. A simple mixture of mayonnaise, garlic powder, and a splash of lemon juice can replace the ranch.

Q3: How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
A: Sear the chicken first, then broil at the end. This ensures the crust stays crispy.

Q4: Can this recipe be frozen?
A: Yes. Freeze the cooked chicken with the crust separate from the sauce. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Q5: Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
A: Use plant-based cheeses and cream substitutes. Nutritional yeast can help mimic the Parmesan flavor.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep Chicken & Ingredients	15 mins
Sear Chicken	6 mins
Bake Chicken	20–25 mins
Prepare Crust & Sauce	10 mins
Broil Chicken	2–3 mins
Total	~40 mins

Serving Suggestions

• Slice chicken on a slight diagonal for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Drizzle cheddar cream sauce artistically or serve in a small ramekin on the side.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne to the crust mixture.
2. Herbed Crust Chicken: Mix fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley into the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Cheesy Mozzarella Twist: Swap cheddar for mozzarella for a gooey, melty top.
4. Pecan-Crusted Chicken: Combine finely chopped pecans with panko for a nutty flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight

Parmesan Cheese

• Selection: Choose freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor and crispiness.
• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Enhancement Tip: Aged Parmesan gives a nuttier, more robust flavor.

Panko Bread Crumbs

• Selection: Look for Japanese-style panko for extra crunch.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place in a sealed container.
• Enhancement Tip: Toast lightly in a skillet before mixing for deeper flavor.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Searing chicken before baking locks in juices and enhances flavor.
• Broiling at the end ensures a golden, crunchy crust.
• Keep the cheese sauce warm but do not boil after adding cheese to prevent separation.
• Press the crust mixture lightly for even adhesion without flattening the chicken.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Chicken: Store in airtight containers up to 3 days.
• Cheese Sauce: Refrigerate in a separate container; reheat gently on the stove.
• Freezing: Freeze chicken without sauce for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	620 kcal
Protein	45 g
Carbs	18 g
Fats	42 g
Fiber	1 g

Dietary Notes: Gluten-free options available; not suitable for vegan diets without substitutions.

Expanded Conclusion

This Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a show-stopping dinner that transforms simple chicken breasts into a restaurant-quality dish. The crispy Parmesan crust, the creamy cheddar sauce, and the subtle tang from the ranch spread create a harmony of flavors that is hard to resist. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining guests, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers comfort, flavor, and elegance on every plate.

Bring the steakhouse home, serve with your favorite sides, and watch as everyone asks for seconds. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and keep experimenting—this dish is as flexible as it is delicious.

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