Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe: A Savory American Classic with a Gourmet Twist

When I think of a dish that brings restaurant flair into a home kitchen with minimal fuss, Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken comes to mind instantly. This beloved recipe was first introduced to me by my cousin who worked a summer job at a steakhouse in Georgia. He swore by the buttery, cheesy crust and the juicy grilled chicken underneath—and he wasn’t wrong. I’ve since added my own touches, blending my Italian roots with American comfort, and the result is nothing short of spectacular.

If you’ve ever dined at Longhorn Steakhouse, you know this dish is a fan-favorite. But with this easy-to-follow guide, you can recreate that same indulgent experience in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a weekend dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

🕒 Prep Time: 20 minutes

🔥 Cook Time: 25 minutes

🍽️ Servings: 5

🏷️ Cuisine: American

🌡️ Suitable For: Summer & Winter

🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Ranch Spread:

1/2 cup ranch dressing
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)

For the Parmesan Crust:

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup Provolone cheese, shredded
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tbsp mayonnaise (for richness)

🔪 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry. In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning blend generously over both sides of each chicken breast. Drizzle with olive oil and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Grill or Pan-Sear the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook each chicken breast for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and transfer to a baking sheet.

Step 3: Mix the Ranch Spread

In a small bowl, combine ranch dressing, sour cream, and parsley. This creamy layer adds a tangy contrast to the savory chicken and crust.

Step 4: Create the Parmesan Crust

Mix together the Parmesan, Provolone, panko, butter, and mayo until you get a crumbly texture. This combination gives you that classic cheesy crust with a delightful crunch.

Step 5: Assemble and Broil

Preheat your oven to broil. Spread a spoonful of the ranch mixture over each cooked chicken breast, followed by a generous layer of the Parmesan crust mix. Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil if you like. Pair with mashed potatoes, grilled veggies, or even a light summer salad.

📸 Step-by-Step Cooking Techniques (Visual Suggestions)

To make the recipe even easier to follow, consider these visuals:

Chicken Seasoning: Show the spice mix and the chicken being rubbed with it.
Grilling Chicken: Close-up of grill marks forming on the chicken.
Mixing the Crust: Display the crumbly cheese-butter mix.
Layering: A step-by-step shot of ranch spread, then crust going on top.
Broiling: The golden crust bubbling in the oven.

These can greatly enhance engagement if you’re posting the recipe on a blog or social platform.

🧀 Why This Parmesan Crust is Irresistible

This isn’t just cheese on chicken—it’s a flavor bomb. The mix of Parmesan and Provolone gives it a sharp and creamy balance, while the panko adds just the right amount of crunch. The addition of mayonnaise may surprise you, but it’s the secret to that ultra-rich, golden top layer.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

Summer Pairings: Try grilled corn on the cob, fresh tomato salad, or a cold pasta salad.
Winter Warmers: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or mac and cheese.
Wine Pairing: A crisp Chardonnay or even a light Pinot Noir complements the cheesy richness beautifully.

📋 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values for one chicken breast with crust:

Calories: 430
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fat: 27g
Sodium: 600mg
Sugar: 2g

Note: Values may vary based on specific brands used and serving size.

🧂 Tips & Variations

Low-Carb Version: Skip the panko and replace with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
Add Heat: Toss in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne into the crust.
Make It Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and ranch spread in advance. Add the crust just before broiling.

🥘 Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the crust crispy.

🧡 A Family Favorite

This recipe holds a special place in my heart. The first time I served it, my grandmother—who usually sticks to her classic Italian chicken dishes—took one bite and said, “This is better than the restaurant!” That’s when I knew this dish was a keeper.

⚠️ Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

Dry Chicken: Overcooking is the main culprit. Use a meat thermometer and pull the chicken at exactly 165°F.
Crust Falling Off: Let the cheese melt slightly before broiling to help it adhere, and avoid slicing too early.
Burning Under Broiler: Watch closely! Broilers can go from golden to burnt in seconds. 2–3 minutes is usually plenty.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?
A: Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, then follow with the broiling step for the crust.

Q: What can I substitute for Provolone?
A: Mozzarella or Monterey Jack works, though the flavor and melt quality will vary slightly.

Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: You can freeze the grilled chicken, but for best results, add the crust after reheating. It tends to lose texture once frozen.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers for the crust.

✨ Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Longhorn Steakhouse or discovering this dish for the first time, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe brings gourmet flavor to your home with ease. It’s cheesy, flavorful, and perfectly crispy—what’s not to love?

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below or share your twist on it.

1 Easy Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe That Tastes Like Fine Dining